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New Mexico Land Boss Weighs Easement Request From Feds

LORDSBURG, N.M. (AP) — U.S. Customs and Border Protection is seeking rights of way for the next 35 years to repair nearly 30 miles of roads in two counties to help with operations in New Mexico's border region.

Land Commissioner Aubrey Dunn has scheduled a June 2 public meeting in Lordsburg to discuss the request.

Easement fees charged by the State Land Office could total $400,000. But federal officials want the fees to be waived since it plans to repair the roads, many of which are dirt and gravel.

Dunn said Thursday he has a responsibility to generate revenue from state trust lands for the benefit of public schools and other public institutions.

Dunn surveyed several of the roads in question earlier this week and said he wants to hear from the public.