A judge on Thursday ordered a fast-track process for determining whether a New Mexico Interstate Stream Commission subcommittee violated the state Open Meetings Act regarding the future of the Gila River.
A week ago, state District Judge Raymond Ortiz issued a temporary restraining order preventing the commission from taking any action on the Gila River projects.
That order was based on allegations by a former director who claims the body conducted meetings without proper public notice or behind closed doors.
The Santa Fe New Mexican reports that a hearing on the restraining order is set for Nov. 12.
In the meantime, the commission and Norman Gaume, the former director, will have the ability to take depositions and seek documents.
The commission faces a Dec. 31 deadline for deciding whether to accept federal funds for the Gila.
At stake are millions and a new source of water that some see as a rare opportunity to bring drought relief.
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Information from: The Santa Fe New Mexican.
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