Message from the Chairman

After being selected by my fellow elected officials within the governing body of Sunland Park, New Mexico to succeed Mayor Javier Perea as the City’s representative on the Board of the Camino Real Regional Utility Authority, I was later nominated and appointed by my fellow board members to serve as Chairman of the Board of the Camino Real Regional Utility Authority (CRRUA).

Serving in this role is a responsibility I take very seriously. My focus as Chairman is simple but vital: to promote transparency, strengthen accountability, and ensure that every family in our community has access to safe and reliable drinking water while supporting responsible local stewardship of our water system.

CRRUA was established in February 2009 following challenges within the previous local water system that led to the creation of a regional authority to stabilize and manage operations. That period in our community’s history serves as an important reminder of why responsible leadership, strong oversight, and public engagement are essential to maintaining the trust of the residents we serve.

Looking ahead, my priority is to work collaboratively with the Doña Ana County Board of County Commissioners, the governing body of the City of Sunland Park, and the dedicated staff of CRRUA to ensure our water system continues moving forward with responsible management and a strong commitment to the people of Sunland Park. Our community deserves a water utility that operates with integrity, transparency, and accountability.

Transparency also means keeping residents informed. The most recent official water sample tests and public notices are available on CRRUA’s website at www.crrua.org, including the latest operational control tests confirming results that meet applicable regulatory standards.

Every decision we make at CRRUA is guided by the principle that our water system belongs to the people of Sunland Park. By keeping residents informed, engaging with community leaders, and prioritizing responsible management, we aim to ensure that our utility continues to serve the community with integrity and trust.

Water is one of the most essential resources for any community. Protecting it requires cooperation, responsible stewardship, and a shared commitment to the well-being of the families who depend on it every day. As Chairman, I remain dedicated to working alongside our regional partners, community leaders, and residents to ensure our water system continues to serve the people of Sunland Park with reliability and accountability.

Biography

Raul T. Telles Jr. was born and raised in El Paso, Texas, and is a graduate of J.M. Hanks High School, Class of 1998. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he served honorably for more than twenty years. His military career included multiple combat deployments, worldwide assignments, and the receipt of numerous military awards. Councilor Telles advanced from a junior Soldier to an executive-level Senior Enlisted Advisor, culminating his service as the G-6 Sergeant Major for the 1st Armored Division at Fort Bliss, Texas. He retired honorably in the fall of 2018.

Following his military retirement, Councilor Telles pursued a career in law enforcement, joining the El Paso Police Department in the spring of 2019. He serves as a Texas Peace Officer assigned to the Crisis Intervention Team and the Honor Guard Team, continuing his dedication to public safety and community service.

Councilor Telles holds an Associate Degree in Applied Science in Administrative and Management Studies and a Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Management. He is also an inductee and member of The National Society of Collegiate Scholars, reflecting his commitment to academic excellence and lifelong learning.

Beyond his professional service, Councilor Telles has demonstrated long-standing civic leadership. He has served as President of the Villa Valencia Homeowners Association since 2016, representing more than 350 homes and families. He has also served the City of Sunland Park as a Commissioner on the Planning and Zoning Commission and as a Board Member of the Camino Real Regional Utility Authority in Doña Ana County.

Councilor Telles is married to his loving wife, Sofia Telles, and together they are raising their daughter, Rachael Alejandra Telles. Their family includes two golden retrievers, Bonnie and Clyde, and two Shih Tzu Poodles, Curly and Ash.