Bernalillo County Government is dedicated to meeting the needs of a diverse population. Rich in history and culture, Bernalillo County is located in central New Mexico, and stretches from the East Mountain area (just north of the Sandia Mountains) to the Volcano Cliffs on the west mesa. The County consists of an area of nearly 1200 square miles and over 556,678 (2000 US Census Bureau) in population.  The City of Albuquerque lies within Bernalillo County.

 Bernalillo County is represented by five Commissioners and five elected officials. County Commissioners are elected by districts. The Assessor, Clerk, Probate Judge, Sheriff and Treasurer are elected countywide. A County Manager oversees 25 other departments that range from Animal Regulation to Zoning.

The Public Works Division maintains over 700 miles of roads, trails, thoroughfares and storm sewers. The Community Services Division includes Parks and Recreation, Environmental Health, Housing as well as Building, Planning and Zoning. Public Safety functions include Fire and Rescue, adult and juvenile detention centers, and emergency communications. Budget, Finance and Administrative responsibilities include a variety of internal operations such as building maintenance, human resources, fleet management, and information technology.

Bernalillo County History and Structure

The division of counties in New Mexico can be traced back to the time of Mexican rule. The first subdivison of the New Mexico Territory was made in 1837 when two "partidos" -- districts -- were created. In 1844, New Mexico was re-divided into three districts. Eventually these districts were further subdivided into areas that include similar boundaries of today's counties. One interesting note -- the first Bernalillo County boundaries were much larger than today's.

The New Mexico Constitution, written when the state entered the Union in 1912, vested the law-making power of the state in the legislature. Bernalillo County derives its authority from the State Constitution. Counties are subject to the will of the legislature, modified only by the state constitution, the courts, and the legislative process.

Bernalillo County has a Commission/Manager form of government which delegates most of the day-to-day administrative matters to the County Manager. The County employs 1500 full and part time employees. Salaries of the Commissioners and the elected officials are set by the state legislature and vary according to county classification. Most employees are considered "classified" which means they are hired in accordance with personnel rules and regulations which govern eligibility, selection and termination.

Download:
Bernalillo County Guide to Government