LWVNM CONVENTION MINUTES, SATURDAY, APRIL 26, 2025

Board Members Present

Kathy Brook, Co-President (SNM)

Hannah Burling, Co-President (SFC)

Barbara Calef, Second Vice President (LA)

Akkana Peck, Action Chair and Webmaster (LA)

Judy Williams, Past President/Program (SFC)

Meredith Machen, Education and Special Projects (SFC)

Karen Douglas, Nuclear Issues (CNM)

Janet Blair, Communications (CNM)

Jody Larson, Archivist and SFC Liaison (SFC)

Edwina Jaramillo, Voter Services (SNM)

Felicia Orth, Los Alamos President (LA)

Starlyn Brown, President (CNM)

Local League Delegates Present (in addition to Felicia Orth and Starlyn Brown)

LWVSFC Delegates

Pat Dooley

Marcy Litzenberg

Kelly Davis

Joann Volinski

Danis Kelly

Ellen Stelling

Carol Parker

LWVLA Delegates

Rebecca Shankland

Lisa Hampton

Leslie Wallstrom

Marianne Wilkerson

LWVCNM Delegates

Lani Desaulniers

Janie McGuigan

Linda Miller

Karen Douglas

Dorothy Dickman

Karen Wentworth

Jeanne Logsdon

Observers Present

Susan Pfeifer (SFC)

Welcome and Announcements

Hannah Burling, Co-President, welcomed the delegates, observers, speakers, and guests to the League’s 2025 Biennial Convention. She also thanked the Convention Planning Committee from the Santa Fe County League - Debbie Helper, Danis Kelly, and Judy Williams, Ellen Stelling, Marcy Litzenberg, Kelly Davis, and Jody Larson.

Marcy Litzenberg introduced Santa Fe Mayor Alan Webber.

Welcome from Mayor Alan Webber, Santa Fe

The mayor provided a brief perspective on the state of the country and the city. Santa Fe is a values-driven city and federal actions have impact locally, he stated. As an example, the city receives three grants from AmeriCorps that help seniors with nutrition and provide compensation for individuals in stipended volunteer work programs. The grants were in jeopardy after receiving a memorandum from AmeriCorps. The memo stated the city had to: 1) scrub reference to DEI, 2) assert grants never had DEI, and 3) return the money if DEI was used in their programs. In response, Santa Fe sued and prevailed in court. Given the political situation, the mayor plans to focus on what the city can do locally and to hold people accountable. He ended his speech by speaking about Admiral Jim Collins, who survived the “Hanoi Hilton” as a POW. The prisoners that died, the admiral stated, initially had the most hope, but those that survived the POW camp: 1) faced the brutal facts of life; and, 2) believed that no matter what happened, they would prevail. The mayor concluded his speech by stating we’ve had hard times before; we must accept the current [political] reality but live up to our values.

Introduction of LWVUS Liaison Alexis Juday-Marshall, LWVUS Board Member and Liaison to LWVNM

Hannah Burling introduced Alexis Juday-Marshall, who will be the speaker during lunch. Alexis has been a National Board member of the League of Women Voters of the United States since 2022. She joined the League of Women Voters in late 2018. During her time in the Washington State League, Alexis was a member of the Observer Corps, a member of the Washington State DEI Working Committee, a climate action guide and co-chair of the Environmental Committee of King County/Seattle. She also served as a Delegate for the LWVUS for the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow, Scotland.

FIRST PLENARY SESSION

Call to Order

The 2025 LWVNM Convention was called to order by Co-President Kathy Brook at 9:30 a.m. Kathy described the contents of the meeting packet and asked attendees to introduce themselves.

Appointments: Parliamentarian, Timekeepers

Kathy Brook announced the appointments:

Felicia Orth – Parliamentarian;

Edwina Jaramillo - will be taking the minutes of this Convention;

Jody Larson - Credentials Committee Chair; and,

Karen Douglas – timekeeper and vote counter.

Credentials Committee Report

Jody Larson read the credentials report and verified that the convention has a quorum. Jody Larson moved the roll of delegates submitted be the official roll of the voting members for this session of the Convention. It was seconded by Meredith Machen and the motion carried.

Adoption of Convention Rules

Barbara Calef moved, and Akkana Peck seconded, to adopt the convention rules as presented. The motion carried with two-thirds vote for adoption.

Adoption of Order of Business

Barbara Calef moved, Rebecca Shankland seconded, to adopt the order of business as presented. The motion carried.

Appointment of Committee to Approve Meeting Minutes

Kathy Brook, hearing no objection, appointed Barbara Calef and Starlyn Brown to read the minutes following their completion. When both readers are satisfied, the minutes will be filed.

Treasurer’s Report

Hannah Burling noted that Kathy Brook agreed to serve as interim treasurer after Kim Sorensen resigned from the position at the end of January 2025. Kathy presented the Treasurer’s Report (see Attachment 1). Of note was that income is a best estimate given the new dues structure and process that allows member dues payments from $20 and up (i.e., there is no set fee). In response to a question regarding only $1000 budgeted to fundraising, Hannah responded that LWVNM is a 501(c)4 entity which limits fundraising capabilities. She stated she met with a 501c(4) funder last week and there are plans to reach out to others.

Report of the Budget Committee

Hannah Burling called on Kathy Brook, Chair of the Budget Committee, to report on the 2025/26 budget. Kathy reviewed the proposed 2025/26 budget (Attachment 2). She noted the budget includes $10,000 for grants, but there are currently none in mind. Also, the dues amount is a guess given the new dues structure and process.

Report of the Bylaws Committee

The Bylaws Committee, comprised of Akkana Peck and Barbara Calef, have reviewed the bylaws for accuracy and for alignment with the new dues process. Barbara reviewed the proposed changes and entertained questions.

Report of the Nominating Committee

Kathy Brook thanked Karen Wentworth for serving as Chair of the Nominating Committee, and other members of the Committee: Rebecca Shankland, Felicia Orth, and Dick Mason. Karen read the entire list of nominated officers and directors and noted the vacancies (see list below). Karen also called for nominations from the floor. No nominations from the floor were received.

Board of Directors

President: Hannah Burling (Santa Fe)

1st Vice President – vacant

2nd Vice President – Barbara Calef (Los Alamos)

Secretary – Edwina Jaramillo (Southern New Mexico)

Treasurer – Kathy Brook (Southern New Mexico)

Action Chair – vacant

Past President – Kathy Brook (Southern New Mexico)

Archives – Jody Larson (Santa Fe)

Communications – Janet Blair (Central New Mexico)

Special Projects, Women’s Issues, Immigration, Education – Meredith Machen (Santa Fe)

Voter Services – vacant

Voters and Elections – Felicia Orth (Los Alamos)

Nuclear Issues – Karen Douglas (Central New Mexico)

Website – Akkana Peck (Los Alamos)

Program – Judy Williams (Santa Fe)

Karen noted the Convention may elect up to six directors plus the officers. The Board also has the authority to appoint up to six additional on-Board Directors during its term. The Convention will not vote on the off-Board positions, except for the three members of the next Nominating Committee.

Report of the Legislative Action Committee

Kathy Brook called on Akkana Peck, Co-Chair of LWVNM’s Action Committee, to summarize the highlights of the Legislative Session and report on some of our most important advocacy efforts. Akkana reviewed priorities for the session: 1) Voting & Elections & Ethics; 2) Environment; 3) Health care; and 4) Housing. The Committee also advocated on bills related to Budgets & Taxes; Immigration; and other topics including gun and public safety bills. She noted there were two big wins during the legislative sessions – on Open Elections and Elimination of Pocket Vetoes. There were also several disappointments for bills that did not pass, e.g., the governor’s veto of the lobbyist disclosure bill and SB 4 Clear Horizons bill that would have established in law greenhouse gas emissions limits that would put us on pace for zero carbon emissions by 2050.

In response to a question regarding the training of people to become lobbyists, Akkana responded that LWVNM holds an Advocacy Training Workshop prior to the start of the legislative session. In addition, there are handouts on our website on how to advocate and register as a lobbyist with the Secretary of State. Of note during the discussion, members were advised not to wait until January to decide to participate as legislative interim committees will begin meeting soon. The interim committee meetings provide a “heads up” for bills that may come up during the subsequent legislative session. Kathy Brook asked the membership to think about how to make an impact outside the legislative session. Akkana also suggested we think about pushing bills before the session starts.

Kathy thanked Akkana and Dick Mason, Co-Chairs of the Action Committee, for their leadership and hard work. If you haven't signed on to the LWV Action group list, please see the directions on the website www.lwvnm.org and in La Palabra.

Report of Proposed Program for Study and Action (2025-2027)

Kathy Brook called on Judy Williams, Program Director, to explain our Program for Study and Action. Judy noted the League's program consists of positions on state government issues that the League has approved, and also consists of studies to be conducted in order to develop additional positions. The LWVNM Board of Directors is responsible for reviewing the proposals and recommending one or more of them for adoption at this Convention according to procedures specified in the bylaws.

In addition to conducting studies leading to the development of positions, the League may adopt positions through a concurrence process. The Board evaluates concurrence proposals according to three criteria:

  1. The adequacy of the position to address broad public policy in that arena, assessed by examining the research done in the study and determining whether the issue is one that can be addressed by state-level governmental action;
  2. whether a majority of LWVNM Board members vote to concur with the proposed positions(s); and
  3. whether the issue is one in which the League is likely to make a difference.

As part of Program Planning for Study and Action, local Leagues can recommend re-adoption of the state positions as they existed following the 2023 Convention or they can suggest changes to existing positions. The Board evaluates these recommendations.

Judy reviewed proposed position revisions that the 2024 LWVNM Council approved. They are being brought to the 2025 Convention for ratification. The following positions were revised at Council: The Ethics position was revised by concurrence; and the Transparency position was revised by adding a statement from another LWVNM position.

The LWVNM board approved the program for study and action they are recommending (see Attachment 3). We will vote on adopting the program tomorrow.

There was much discussion regarding the revision to item 6 in the Affordable Housing position. The term “energy-efficient building” was thought to be too narrow by some. Judy noted that any revision would need a new concurrence; the wording can’t be changed. She stated the state Board will make a motion to approve the positions and any comments can be made at tomorrow’s plenary session at which time the position could be approved as a whole or item by item. There were questions concerning the process for modifying positions and Barbara Calef and Felicia Orth (the latter as parliamentarian) were asked to provide input at tomorrow’s plenary.

Judy also reported on the completed Federal Judiciary Study: She noted that, interestingly, there were no consensus questions on term limits. All local Leagues participated in the study and the online responses to the questions were completed by the due date of April 14th. In response to a question regarding the results of the study Alexis Juday-Marshall stated that the LWVUS Board met yesterday and today for an update on the study. She will share the results with Hannah once she has been updated.

Kathy thanked Judy for her work as Program Chair. She also thanked Judy and the members of local Leagues who worked on the Federal Judiciary Study.

Proposals from the Floor for Other Studies

Judy asked for proposals for study from the floor; none were received.

Announcements

Kathy Brook announced the start time for the banquet and the speaker, Leon Howard, executive director of ACLU New Mexico. She also announced the afternoon meeting times of the Communications and Environment Committees, the start times and meeting places for those going on the hike or to the contemporary art museum.

Adjournment

Kathy Brook adjourned the meeting at 12:00 p.m. The second plenary session of the 2025 Convention was scheduled to reconvene at 9 a.m. on Sunday.

LUNCH

Speech by Alexis Juday-Marshall

SUNDAY, APRIL 27, 2025

Reports About Special Events/Activities by Local League Presidents

Starlyn Brown, President of LWVCNM, began the reports. The highlights for CNM were:

  1. the production of the 64-page printed Voter Guide for all four CNM counties. They initially printed 28,000 copies but had to augment with an additional 5,000, and utilized new partners to distribute the Voter Guide.
  2. monthly education meetings with speakers. Links to recordings of the meetings are available on their website.
  3. focused on voter registration expansion including naturalization ceremonies.
  4. more focus on affordable housing.
  5. bi-monthly book club meetings which included two author events.
  6. happy hours for socializing.

Felicia Orth, President of LWVLA, reported that their League:

  1. held several important candidate forums.
  2. held a monthly lunch where topics are discussed, e.g., the library, artificial intelligence.
  3. focused on the Voter Guide and voter registration. Voter registrations were held at the high school and at Starbucks.

Kelly Davis reported for LWVSF. She stated LWVSF received a grant from the Santa Fe Community Foundation for social media initiatives. In addition, the League:

  1. focused on mis- and dis-information and posted the recent LWVUS press release in the Santa Fe New Mexican.
  2. focused on Get-Out-the-Vote initiatives and voter registration drives. They registered 500 students at the local high school. Additionally, classroom training/exercises were provided on mis- & dis-information.
  3. partnered with the NAACP to identify precincts with low voter turnout.
  4. held candidate forums in partnership with the Santa Fe New Mexican.
  5. showed a documentary by #UnTruths (found on YouTube) about mis- & dis-information
  6. worked with teachers, and trained 9 students to become voter registration agents.
  7. assisted the County Clerk to sign up poll workers.

Kathy Brook reported for LWVSNM. The League, she stated, will face some challenges in the coming years since there is no president. This past year the League:

  1. convened a meeting on the proposed Mimbres National Monument that was attended by anti-monument activists.
  2. had a good conversation with legislators at the annual Legislative Conversation and Social. It was co-sponsored by the NAACP and AAUW.
  3. held a meeting on International Women’s Day featuring speakers who have led women’s studies programs.
  4. provided input and helped pass the Affordable Housing Bond of $6M. They have also supported recently adopted changes in the zoning and development code.,
  5. SNM’s main focus was the production of the Voter Guide, but did have several forums, and voter registration drives. This year rather than produce separate English and Spanish Voter Guides, only one Voter Guide in English and Spanish was printed. Candidates were asked to translate their responses into Spanish.

SECOND PLENARY SESSION

Call to Order

The 2025 LWVNM Convention was called to order by Co-President Kathy Brook at 9:00 a.m.

Credentials Committee Report

Kathy Brook recognized the Credentials Chair, Jody Larson for the first item of business, the report of the Credentials Committee. Jody Larson reported that this session of the convention has a quorum. Jody moved the roll of delegates submitted be the official roll of the voting members for this session of the Convention. It was seconded by Janet Blair and the motion carried.

Adoption of the Budget

Hannah Burling called on Kathy Brook, Chair of the Budget Committee, for the adoption of the two-year Budget for 2025-2027. Kathy moved for the adoption of the proposed budget as presented in the packet. Since this motion has been brought at the direction of the Board, no second was required. Janet Blair moved, and Kelly Davis seconded, to amend the proposed budget by adding $2600 (to line item 31) to hire a part-time intern to create graphics to raise awareness of issues. The intern would be paid approximately $20/hour for approximately 2-3 hours/week. The motion to approve the amended Budget for 2025-2027 was adopted unanimously after discussion.

The discussion included:

1) the need for a social media presence and education of voters in the current political climate;

2) where would we get funding for the additional $2600? One response was that additional funding might come out of net income. Hannah Burling stated she thought the LWVNM Ed Fund could be a source.

3) would the additional funding help local Leagues? Janet Blair responded that posts would be on the state website and would ask the local Leagues to re-post. Starlyn Brown also commented that other avenues for communication needed to be explored.

4) request for clarification on the $250 for the Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native American Women. Judy Williams noted that amount is a fee for being part of the Coalition. Kathy Brook stated that no bill had been received from them, so it has not been paid. Action Item: Hannah Burling will research where we stand with the Coalition.

Adoption of Bylaws Changes

Kathy Brook called on Barbara Calef for the next item of business. Kathy noted that each change will require a 2/3 vote or 19 members (29 members present x 2/3). The motions do not need seconds as they came from Committee. Barbara reviewed amendments 1 – 10 as follows:

Amendment #1: Barbara Calef moved the adoption of the proposed amendment to Article III Membership, Section 1 Eligibility. The motion carried unanimously.

Article III, Section 1 as amended now reads: “Any person who subscribes to the purposes and policies of LWVUS shall be eligible for membership. All members are invited to attend all meetings of LWVNM.”

Amendment #2: Barbara Calef moved the adoption of the proposed amendment to Article III Membership, Section 2 Types of Membership, Items 2 -3. The motion carried with 2/3 vote.

Article III, Section 2, Items 2 -3 as amended now reads:

“2. Those who reside outside the area of any local League may join a local League or be members-at-large.

3.Those who have been members of the League for 50 years or more shall be life members excused from the payment of dues.

4. Individuals enrolled either as full time or part time students at [with] an accredited institution. may join as student members.”

Amendment #3: Barbara Calef moved the adoption of the proposed amendment to Article IV Officers, Sections 1-3, 5-6, and 7- 8. The motion carried with 2/3 vote.

Article IV as amended now reads:

“Section 1. Enumeration, Election, and Duties of Officers. The officers of LWVNM shall be president, a first vice-president/president-elect, a second vice-president, the action chair, the past president, a secretary, and a treasurer. They shall be elected at the State Convention and shall take office immediately after the Convention. They shall hold office until the election at the next biennial Convention or until their successors have been elected. If the position of president is vacant and neither vice-president is able to assume the responsibilities of the president, the Board of Directors shall function as a leadership team and shall possess all the powers and perform the duties of that office until that office is filled.

Section 2. The President. The president shall preside at all meetings of the organization and of the state board or designate someone to preside. The president may, in the absence or disability of the treasurer, sign or endorse checks, drafts and notes. The president shall automatically be a member of all committees except the nominating committee. Two or more individuals may serve as co-presidents.

Section 3. The Vice-Presidents. The vice-presidents shall perform such duties as the president and board may designate. The two vice-presidents, in the order of their rank, shall in the event of absence, disability or death of the president, possess all of the powers and perform all the duties of the presidency until such time as the Board of Directors shall select one of its members or a former president to fill the vacancy in the office of president. In the event of the resignation, disability or death of the first vice-president/president-elect, the vacancy shall be filled by a majority vote of the remaining members of the board. Before the office holder may succeed to the presidency at the next state convention, that name shall be submitted, with those of the other nominees for office, to the membership for vote.

Section 4. The Action Chair. The action chair will coordinate action activities for the LWVNM.

Section 5. The Past President. The former president will provide guidance and continuity to the board.

Section 6. The Secretary. The secretary shall keep the minutes of the Convention, Councils, and of all meetings of the state board. The secretary shall notify all officers and directors of their election. The secretary shall sign, with the president, all contracts and other instruments when so authorized by the state board, and shall perform such other functions as may pertain to the office.

Section 7. The Treasurer. The treasurer, or a duly appointed assistant, shall collect and receive all moneys due. The treasurer shall be custodian of these funds, shall deposit them in financial institutions designated by the state board, and shall disburse them in accordance with the budget or at the direction of the board or at the direction of the board. The treasurer shall present periodic statements to the state board at its regular meetings and an annual report to the Convention or Council. The books of the treasurer shall be reviewed annually at the end of the fiscal year.

Section 8. The Leadership Team. When a president is not elected and the vice-president/president-elect is unable to assume the responsibilities of the president, the board shall govern the organization as a leadership team. At the first board meeting following the biennial Convention, officers and directors that were elected to serve on the board will volunteer, or be nominated to accept the leadership position(s) of president and/or vice-president/president-elect. The leadership team will identify the responsibilities of each member of the team and have responsibility for the routine business of the League (e.g., calling meetings, preparing agendas, chairing meetings).”

Amendment #4: Barbara Calef moved the adoption of the proposed amendment to Article V Board of Directors, Sections 1-3, and 6- 8. After discussion, Section 6 Electronic Board Meetings was further amended. The motion carried with 2/3 vote.

Article V, Sections 1-3, and 6-8 amended will now read:

“Section 1. Number, Manner of Selection and Term of Office. The Board of Directors shall be voting members of LWVNM and shall consist of the officers of LWVNM, not more than eight elected directors, not more than six appointed directors, and the presidents or liaisons of the local Leagues and member-at-large units. The directors elected at the Convention shall take office immediately after the Convention. They shall hold office until the election at the next biennial Convention. The appointed directors shall be appointed by the state board as ad hoc directors as necessary for projects adopted by the state board and shall serve until the project is completed or dropped or until a replacement is secured in case of resignation, illness or other cause(s). Presidents of local Leagues shall serve during their term of office and may serve in other capacities on the state board. While serving on the board, the ad hoc directors and the local League presidents shall have full voting rights.

Section 2. Vacancies. Any vacancy other than in the office of the president may be filled until the next Convention by a majority vote of the remaining members of the Board of Directors.* Two consecutive absences from a board meeting without notification to the president or secretary and without a valid reason shall be deemed a resignation.

*Provisions for filling the vacancy in the presidency are made in Article IV, Section 3.

Section 3. Powers and Duties. The LWVNM Board of Directors shall have full charge of the property and business of the LWVNM, subject to the instructions of the Convention. The state board shall plan and direct the work necessary to carry out the program adopted by the Convention. It shall accept responsibility delegated to it by the LWVUS Board of Directors for the organization and development of all Leagues and member-at-large units within the state. It shall also accept responsibility for implementing state and national program. The state board shall create and designate such special committees as it may deem necessary.

Section 6. Electronic Board Meetings. The Board of Directors may conduct either regular or special meetings electronically provided that a quorum is present. Procedures for discussion, debate and voting shall be in place prior to the convening of such a meeting.

Section 8. Executive Committee. An executive committee consisting of the president and four other members appointed by the state board from its own body following the state Convention shall act for the LWVNM Board of Directors between regular meetings, provided that any action taken shall be reported to the board at its next meeting. Three members of the executive committee shall constitute a quorum to transact business.”

Amendment #5: Barbara Calef moved the adoption of the proposed amendment to Article VI Recognition of Local Leagues and Member-At-Large Units, Section 1 Local Leagues. The motion carried with 2/3 vote.

Article VI, Section 1 as amended now reads:

“Section 1. Local Leagues.

  1. Local Leagues are those Leagues that have been so recognized by LWVUS.
  2. The state board shall recommend that the national board recognize as a local League any group of members of the LWVUS within the state that meets recognition standards for local Leagues as adopted by LWVUS.
  3. In the event of recurring failure of a local League to maintain recognition standards, the state board may recommend to the national board that it withdraw recognition from the local League. All funds held by a local League from which recognition has been withdrawn shall be paid to LWVNM.”

Amendment #6: Barbara Calef moved the adoption of the proposed amendment to Article VII Financial Administration, Sections 2-7. The motion carried with 2/3 vote.

Article VII Financial Administration as amended now reads:

“Section 1. Fiscal Year. The fiscal year of the LWVNM shall be from May 1 to April 30 of each year.

Section 2. Dues. Members shall pay dues in accordance with LWVUS policy.

Members who fail to renew within the period specified by LWVUS will be removed from the roster.

Section 3. Budget Committee. The state board shall appoint a budget committee at least four months in advance of Convention. The treasurer shall be of the committee but shall not serve as chair. The committee shall prepare a balanced budget for the next two fiscal years and present it to the state board for approval during the state board meeting preceding the convention.

Section 4. Budget. The state board shall approve and distribute a proposed budget for the next two fiscal years to the membership at least 30 days prior to the Convention. A budget shall be adopted by the Convention. The state board shall review the budget prior to the next Council and distribute proposed modifications at least 30 days prior to the Council. Modifications may be made by the Council.

Section 5. Distribution of Funds on Dissolution. In the event of the dissolution of LWVNM for any cause, all moneys and securities which may at the time be owned by or under the absolute control of LWVNM shall be paid to LWVUS. All other property, whether real, personal, or mixed, which may at the time be owned by or under the control of LWVNM shall be disposed of by any officer or employee of the organization having possession of the same to such person, organization, or corporation, for such public, charitable, or educational uses and purposes as may be designated by the current state board of LWVNM.”

Amendment #7: Barbara Calef moved the adoption of the proposed amendment to Article VIII Convention, Sections 1-4. Lisa Hampton moved, and Akkana Peck seconded, to amend the motion to end Section 4 Item e with the word “selected”. The motion carried with 2/3 vote.

Article VIII Convention, Sections 1-4 as amended now reads:

“Section 1. Place, Date, and Call. A convention of LWVNM shall be held biennially at a time and place to be determined by the state board. The president shall send a first call for Convention to the membership not less than four months prior to the opening date of the Convention. Thereafter the state board may advance or postpone the opening date of the Convention by not more than two weeks. A final call for Convention shall be sent to the membership at least 30 days before Convention.

Section 2. Composition. The Convention shall consist of the delegates chosen by the members through the local Leagues and member-at-large units as prescribed in Section 4 of this article and the members of the LWVNM Board of Directors.

Section 3. Qualifications of Delegates. Each delegate shall be a voting member in the state of New Mexico. Each delegate shall be entitled to one vote only at Convention even though the delegate may be attending in two or more capacities. Absentee or proxy voting shall not be permitted. The Convention shall be the sole judge of whether a delegate is qualified to vote.

Section 4. Representation. The local Leagues and member-at-large units in the state of New Mexico shall be entitled to voting representation in the Convention as follows:

  1. The president or designated liaison and one delegate who shall be chosen by the board of each local League; each local League having more than 15 voting members shall be entitled to one additional delegate for each additional 25 voting members or major fraction thereof.
  2. Each member-at-large unit shall be entitled to one delegate chosen by their members.
  3. Members-at-large shall be represented by a member-at-large delegate to be selected by the state board.
  4. The numbers of delegates shall be established by membership count of paid voting members as of February first of said year.
  5. In the event any delegate chosen is unable to attend the Convention, a substitute may be selected.”

Amendment #8: Barbara Calef moved the adoption of the proposed amendment to Article IX Council, Sections 2-3. The motion carried with 2/3 vote.

Article IX Convention, Sections 2-3 as amended now reads:

Section 2. Composition. The Council shall be composed of the following delegates: the presidents of the local Leagues, or a designated liaison; one delegate chosen by each local League and each member-at-large unit; a member-at-large representative to be selected by the state board; and all members of the LWVNM state board.

Section 3. Qualifications of Delegates. Each delegate shall be a voting member in the state of New Mexico. Each delegate shall be entitled to one vote only at Council even though the delegate may be attending in two or more capacities. Absentee or proxy voting shall not be permitted. The Council shall be the sole judge of whether a delegate is qualified to vote.

Amendment #9: Barbara Calef moved the adoption of the proposed amendment to Article X Nominations and Elections, Sections 1-3. The motion carried with 2/3 vote.

Article X Nominations and Elections, Sections 1-3 as amended now reads:

“Section 1. Nominating Committee. The nominating committee shall consist of five members, two of whom shall be members of the state board. The chair and two members, who shall not be members of the state board, shall be elected by the Convention. Nominations for these offices shall be made by the current nominating committee. The other members of the committee shall be appointed by the state board. Any vacancy occurring in the nominating committee by reason of death, resignation, or disqualification shall be filled by the state board. Contact information for the chair of the nominating committee shall be published in La Palabra and on the LWVNM website.

Section 2. Suggestions for Nominations. The chair of the nominating committee shall request, through the president of each local League and member-at-large unit, suggestions for nominations for offices to be filled. Suggestions for nominations by local Leagues shall be sent by the president or secretary of such local Leagues to the chair of the nominating committee at least three months before the Convention. Any member may send suggestions to the chair of the nominating committee.

Section 3. Report of the Nominating Committee and Nominations from the Floor. The report of the nominating committee of its nominations for officers and directors, as well as the chair and two members of the succeeding nominating committee shall be presented to the state board and sent to the membership at least 30 days before the Convention. The report of the nominating committee shall be presented to the Convention on the first day of the Convention. Immediately following the presentation of this report, nominations may be made from the floor provided that the consent of the nominees shall have been secured.”

Amendment #10: Barbara Calef moved the adoption of the proposed amendment to Article XI Principles and Program, Section 2. The motion carried with 2/3 vote.

Article XI Principles and Program, Section 2 as amended now reads:

“Section 2. Program. The program of LWVNM shall consist of action to implement the principles and those governmental issues chosen by the Convention for concerted study or concurrence and action as follows:

  1. The boards of local Leagues, LWVNM committees, and member-at-large units may make recommendations for program including amendment of a state League position or adoption of a position by concurrence. Recommendations must be sent to the state board at least eight weeks prior to the Convention.
  2. The state board shall consider these recommendations and formulate a proposed program, which shall be sent to the membership at least 30 days prior to the Convention.
  3. Any local League, LWVNM committee, member-at-large unit, or the state board planning to propose the amendment of a state position or adoption of a position by concurrence shall send background information, including pros and cons on the issue and an explanation of the rationale of using concurrence, to all Leagues at least 30 days prior to the Convention.
  4. The Convention shall adopt a program by a majority vote on each subject presented to it.
  5. A program recommendation properly submitted by a local League, LWVNM committee, or by a member-at-large unit at least eight weeks prior to Convention but not proposed by the state board may be so considered only if it is ordered by a majority vote of the Convention on the first day. The vote on adoption comes on the following day. Adoption of any such recommendation will require a two-thirds vote.

Adoption of Recommended Program for Study and Action

Judy Williams stated that there are currently no ongoing studies and no new proposals for studies.

Adoption of Current Positions

Judy Williams moved to adopt all current positions on behalf of the Board, including all concurrences. No second was needed. Meredith stated her concerns that water conservation and efficiency were not expressly addressed in a single position. Others noted that the current positions on sustainability and water resources/supply provide a sufficient basis to advocate on water conservation and efficiency. The current positions were adopted unanimously.

Continue Program Adoption

There was no additional program adopted.

Non–Recommended Proposed New Studies

There were no non-recommended proposed new studies.

Election of Slate of Officers and Directors (2025-2027)

Kathy read the slate of nominated officers and directors. Karen Wentworth moved to approve the slate on behalf of the Nominating Committee. Hannah nominated Kelly Davis as a member of the Nominating Committee; Becky seconded. Kelly accepted. Becky nominated Lisa Hampton as a member of the Nominating Committee; Meredith seconded. Lisa accepted. The slate with the two additions was approved unanimously.

Meredith suggested a tribute to Dick Mason for his long years of service as Action Chair.

Kathy offered special thanks to Edwina for stepping up as Secretary following Rebecca Chaiken’s departure.

Report on the LWVNM Education Fund – Hannah Burling, President

Hannah reported that the Fund provided financial support for a very successful trail marker event at UNM, honoring Julia Brown Asplund, an early New Mexican suffragist and UNM librarian. The Fund also provided some support to the local Leagues.

A collaboration agreement was developed between the Fund and the state League and local Leagues. The website is live, and the logo and letterhead are finished. The Fund Board recently participated in a strategic planning session, and has been working on a budget. These will both be finalized in the next meeting. The Fund continues to support fair redistricting efforts, and has attracted attention with those efforts this past year. The Fund achieved Bronze status on GuideStar.

With Kim Sorensen and Rebecca Chaiken’s departures we lost the Board Treasurer and Secretary. Jeanne Logsdon has stepped up as Treasurer and Felicia Orth has stepped up as Secretary.

Leslie Wallstrom asked about the Julia Asplund event. Jeanne noted that it was held on the UNM campus in connection with Women’s Equality Day, and that in addition to the trail marker dedication there were two excellent speakers, a historian and the Chair of the New Mexico Commission on the Status of Women.

Directions to the Board

Becky would like language in the Voter Guides welcoming folks to join as members.

Kathy wants us to remember that local Leagues and the state League are not ‘us vs. them’, and that we can always strengthen the relationship.

Hannah thanked Kathy for working with her as Co-President for two years. She thanked everyone for coming and working for democracy in these times. She is honored to have been accepted as President again. Let’s make sure each League is in compliance with all requirements of the IRS, the Attorney General’s Office, NM Charitable Organization Registration Online System, and our own by-laws. We should have general liability insurance and Director and Officer insurance, as we can expect to be attacked. There are new barricades to storm!

Leslie offered thanks to the Santa Fe League for hosting the 2025 Convention; Barbara offered special thanks to Debbie Helper for handling the arrangements.

Convention Adjournment

The convention adjourned at noon.

and edited by Barbara Calef and Starlyn Brown

ATTACHMENT 1

League of Women Voters of New Mexico

Treasurer’s Report

March 30, 2025

2024-2025

Budget

2024-25

Actual

2023-2024

Budget

2023-24

Actual

Income- Organizational

Contributions from Members

200

750

200

100

Contributions from Non-Members

1,000

278

1,000

150

Grants to (c)(4)

10,000

18,400

10,000

13,300

Central NM Per Member Payment

1,924

1,911

1,924

1,924

Southern NM Per Member Payment

1,209

1,157

1,209

1,209

Los Alamos Per Member Payment

1,276

1,313

1.268

1,268

Santa Fe County Per Member Payment

1,502

1,430

1,502

1,502

Dues thru ChapterSpot

0

1,632

0

0

Member at Large Dues

315

0

315

0

Interest

0

0

0

0

Convention/Council Auction

700

0

700

0

MDW award luncheon

2,000

2,169

0

0

Miscellaneous

0

0

0

34

Total Income - Organizational

20,126

29,040

18,118

19,487

Expense - Organizational

Delegate expense – LWVNM cl/convention

500

0

490

0

Delegate expense – LWVUS cl/convention

2,400

3,018

500

550

Newsletter Editor Expenses

0

0

0

20

Member at Large Per Member Payment

200

288

224

224

Diversified Membership

200

0

0

Fundraising

1,000

0

0

Total Organizational Expenses

4,300

3,306

2,414

794

Operating Expenses

Office use

600

950

600

0

Constant Contact

750

998

550

724

Social Media

100

7,608

0

0

Website

50

100

1,216

Office admin expenses

0

0

50

76

Internet Services (SW Cyperport)

0

38

0

Insurance

1,400

834

1,400

1,284

Postage/P.O. Box

20

179

20

181

La Palabra (In Design)

200

194

200

194

SOS Filings

10

12

12

12

PayPal

0

0

10

0

Total Operating Expenses

3,130

10,813

2,942

3,687

Program/Advocacy Expenses

MDW Award Luncheon

2,000

3,055

0

0

VOTE411/Native Am Voter Guide

2,000

13,353

0

8,206

League Day

150

0

150

0

Position Support/Advocacy

2,000

1,634

2,000

5,445

Legislative Reception

3,500

3,513

2,800

4,200

Coalition to Stop Violence Ag Native American Women

250

0

250

0

Zoom Fee

500

0

0

394

Reimbursement to Ed Fund/Misc

550

2,000

150

65

Total Program/Advocacy Expenses

10,950

23,555

5,350

18,310

Total Expenses

18,380

37,674

10,706

22,791

Net Income

1.746

(8,634)

7,412

(3,304)

Assets

Checking account at Wells Fargo

Beginning Balance, May 1, 2024: $45,153.17

Balance as of March 31, 2025: $26,982.52

Outstanding checks total: $5,784.

The bank balance includes

Grants: During the FY 2024-25, LWVNM received a Making Democracy Work grant from LWVUS in the amount of $18, 250; $16, 250 has been received with the final payment of $1,800 due in the next fiscal year after submission of the final report. Funds from the grant were used

Actual income from grants also included the final payment for a Making Democracy Work grant during 2023-2024.

ATTACHMENT 2

Budget Committee Report

Submitted by Kathy Brook (chair), Starlyn Brown, Dick Mason, Judy Williams

Below are some details about lines in the proposed budget.

Income Items

Grants: We have had grants from LWVUS during the past few years. We do not know whether such funding will be available in the coming two years so the $10,000 budgeted each year is far from definite.

Dues: Under the new dues system. LWVNM will receive funding directly through ChapterSpot rather than by billing local Leagues annually. There is no need for individual budget lines for each of the local Leagues. The new dues structure is designed to increase the share of dues directed to state Leagues but the impact on state League revenues is subject to uncertainty. We have 577 current members but we don’t know what level of dues they will pay under the new system. We have assumed dues income of $16,000 annually. This compares with about $6,000 in dues last year.

MDW award event: An event for the Making Democracy Work award is anticipated to be self-supporting (e.g., by selling tickets) and is budgeted with income equal to expenses.

Expense Items

Delegate Expenses: LWVNM normally pays registration fees for board members, other than the local League representatives, who attend the state convention and council. Similarly, LWVNM pays registration fees for state League delegates attending LWVUS convention and council.

Diversified Membership Dues to Local Leagues: LWVNM has a fund of $1740 for the purpose of assisting local Leagues in diversifying membership. Information needs to be shared with local Leagues.

Position support/advocacy: This includes funding for lobbying and other forms of advocacy.

Legislative reception: The reception is attended by League members and a small number of legislators though all are invited. It provides some visibility because the legislators receive invitations even if they don’t appear. The next board may want to consider alternatives.

Given that the state League portion of dues is increasing, LWVNM may want to consider ways that it can extend support to local Leagues.

Proposed Budget, 2025-2026 and 2026-2027

Current Budget

2024-2025

(with revisions)

Proposed Budget

2025-2026

Proposed Budget

2026-2027

Income

1

Contributions from Members

$200.00

$100.00

$100.00

2

Contributions from Non-Members

$1,000.00

$225.00

$225.00

3

Grants

$10,000.00

$10,000.00

$10,000.00

4

Dues

$6,217.00

$16,000.00

$16,000.00

5

Conv/Council Auction

$700.00

$1,000.00

6

MDW Award Event

$500.00

$500.00

7

Interest

8

TOTAL INCOME

$18,117.00

$26,825.00

$27,825.00

Expenses

Expense- Organizational

9

Delegate expenses – LWVNM

$500.00

$500.00

$1,000.00

10

Delegate expenses – LWVUS

$2,400.00

$1,500.00

$2,400.00

11

Newsletter Editor Expenses

$20.00

$20.00

12

Diversified Membership Dues to Local Leagues

$200.00

$500.00

$500.00

13

Fund Raising

$1,000.00

$1,000.00

$1,000.00

14

Total Organizational Expenses

$4,100.00

$3,520.00

$4,920.00

Operating Expenses

15

Office Rent

$600.00

$800.00

$800.00

16

Constant Contact

$750.00

$1,000.00

$1,000.00

17

Website/internet services

$50.00

$100.00

$100.00

18

Office administrative expenses

$100.00

$100.00

19

Copying/printing

$50.00

$50.00

20

Insurance

$1,400.00

$1,400.00

$1,400.00

21

Postage/P.O. Box

$20.00

$85.00

$85.00

22

Zoom fee

$500.00

$500.00

23

Sec. of State report

$10.00

$12.00

$12.00

24

Total Operational Expenses

$2,830.00

$4,097.00

$4,097.00

Program- Advocacy-Education Expenses

25

MDW Award Event

$500.00

$500.00

$500.00

26

League Day

$150.00

$150.00

$150.00

27

Position support/advocacy

$2,000.00

$2,000.00

$2,000.00

28

Legislative Reception

$3,500.00

$3,500.00

$3,500.00

29

VOTE411

$5,000.00

$5,000.00

$5,000.00

30

VOTE411 contractor

$5,000.00

$5,000.00

31

Social media

$100.00

$50.00

$50.00

32

La Palabra (InDesign)

$200.00

$200.00

$200.00

33

Total Program-Advocacy-Education Expenses

$6,450.00

$16,400.00

$16,400.00

34

TOTAL Expenses

$13,380.00

$24,017.00

$25,417.00

35

Net (Income - Expenses

$4,737.00

$2,808.00

$2,408.00

Note: We are now operating under a new dues structure where members pay what they can as long as it is at least $20 annually.

ATTACHMENT 3

Program items to be considered by the 2025 Convention

By Judy Williams, LWVNM Program Chair

LWVNM Positions

  1. Revisions from Council 2023

The 2024 LWVNM Council considered and adopted some revisions to positions. They are being brought to the 2025 Convention for ratification. The following positions were revised at Council: The Ethics position was revised by concurrence; and the Transparency position was revised by adding a statement from another LWVNM position.

Ethics. The Board considered a concurrence with the LWV of Connecticut position on ethics. The position, to be added to our position on Campaign Finance and Ethics: “The League of Women Voters of Connecticut New Mexico supports government officials and employees being held accountable for carrying out their duties in an effective and ethically responsible manner.” https://my.lwv.org/connecticut/position/ethics

Transparency. The Board voted to move a statement on transparency that is currently in the position on Land Use to the LWVNM position on Transparency. The LWVNM position on Land Use includes this statement: “Transparency and public participation in decision-making must be part of the process at all levels of government.” https://www.lwvnm.org/positions.html#landuse

  1. New Proposal: Revision of the Affordable Housing Position with concurrence requests indicated by underlining.

The League of Women Voters of New Mexico supports current and future efforts to increase the availability of safe, decent affordable housing for moderate and low-income households through the following actions.

  1. Increase housing options for households in New Mexico, including but not limited to seniors, the disabled, and first-time homebuyers.
  2. Promote a variety of housing styles and types for rent and for purchase that are integrated within communities, which should have a mix of market-rate and affordable units. (LWV Los Alamos)
  3. Support strategies including public and private partnerships and grants, developmental agreements, rehabilitation, fee waivers, density bonuses, and an affordable housing trust fund and land bank.
  4. Support programs and policies that link energy-efficient building electrification, transportation, land use, and affordable housing. (LWV Southern New Mexico )
  5. Support protection of the rights of both tenants and landlords. (LWV California)
  6. Support assistance for homeless programs which provide both shelter and services for targeted populations, particularly families and the mentally ill. (LWV Central New Mexico)

Justification

In recent years, the availability and affordability of housing in New Mexico has become a critical issue. Three of the local Leagues, as well as the State League have Housing positions. The State position was adopted in 2013 and requires amendments in order to address the changing landscape of housing needs in New Mexico and allow advocacy. The sheer number of housing related bills and the issues they are addressing is proof that members of the Legislature are engaged. However, the current LWVNM Affordable Housing position does not explicitly address the rights of tenants or landlords.

In the 2025 Legislature there are several bills addressing the terms of rental applications, background and screening processes as well as adequate notices of fee and rent increases, e.g. SB267, SB 216, HB43, HB98, HB339. While there is language in both the LWVNM Affordable Housing position and LWVUS position on Meeting Basic Human Needs that can be construed to support advocacy in this area, we would welcome an explicit statement regarding tenant and landlord rights in the LWVNM position removing all doubt.

Another area missing from the LWVNM current position is allowing advocacy for supportive services for transitional or permanent supportive housing. Supportive housing is a highly effective strategy that combines affordable housing with intensive wrap-around services to help people struggling with chronic physical and mental health issues maintain stable housing.  Senate Bill 273, Transitional Housing for Veterans, is an example of this deficiency and no support or oppose action can be taken because the action is to provide supportive services along with housing.

Finally, the United States is in a time of transition from reliance on fossil fuels to more renewable and efficient energy. Building electrification technologies are available now and this transition requires us to ensure our LWVNM position is up-to-date with the moving landscape of electrification and energy efficiency in affordable housing.