Bill Richardson
Governor
Rhonda G. Faught, P.E.
Cabinet Secretary
October 16, 2006
Press Release
Governor Bill Richardson Dedicates 16-mile Portion of
US 62/180 in Honor of State Rep. Joe M. Stell
CARLSBAD – New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson today dedicated a 16-mile portion of US 62/180
from Whites City to the New Mexico State Line in honor of longtime State Representative Joe M. Stell.
The highway is located in Southern New Mexico in Eddy County.
“State Representative Joe M. Stell - Mr. Water - has been instrumental in making sure New Mexico has a
sensible set of water policies,” said Governor Richardson. “He is the father of the Strategic Water Reserve
and has led the way in the Legislature on helping the state comply with the Pecos River Water Rights
Settlement. It is fitting that – as we are about to embark on what I am calling the “Year of Water” in the
Legislature – we are here to honor one of the foremost water experts in the state.”
Transportation Commission Chairman Johnny Cope said, “It’s only fitting that this stretch of U.S. 62/180
be named after Representative Stell. The naming of this road will serve as a permanent reminder to a man
that has represented southern New Mexico with great pride and dignity. I am honored to take part in this
tribute.”
“I’ve had the privilege and honor to work with Representative Stell for nearly 16 years,” Transportation
Secretary Rhonda Faught said. “He is always the voice of reason. He always wanted to make it clear how
transportation projects benefit the public. He is a true champion of our state and our department.”
In 1986, the citizens of District 54 elected Stell to the New Mexico House of Representatives. Since then
he has continuously and honorably served the citizens of District 54 in Southern New Mexico. Stell has
served as Chair of the Agriculture and Water Resources Committee, co-chair of the Water and Natural
Resources Interim Committee, a member of the New Mexico Finance Authority Oversight Committee, a
member of the New Mexico Tax and Revenue Committee, designee of the Revenue Stabilization and Tax
Policy Committee and an advisory member of the Legislative Council.
In early 2004, Stell was presented the New Mexico Earth Science Achievement Award by the New
Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources and the State Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources
Department. Some of his other awards include the Legacy Award by the Greater Albuquerque Chamber
of Commerce for his distinguished service as a legislator, the New Mexico Department of Agriculture
Secretary’s Honor Award and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Greater Artesia Chamber of
Commerce.
A 1946 graduate of Carlsbad High School, he excelled in sports during his high school years. He was All
State in football, basketball and track.
Stell attended Southern Methodist University, the University of New Mexico and in 1950 earned his
Bachelor of Science degree in language arts. He also attended Western New Mexico University where he
received a Master of Science degree in school administration.
From 1951 to 1953, he was an educator at the Deming school system. Stell taught and coached with
Carlsbad Municipal School District from 1953 to 1966. From 1967 to 1987 he served as administrator for
the Carlsbad Schools. Stell and his wife, Verna J. Renfro, have four children, James William, Cathy
Jeanne, Jo Beth and Linda Lee.
For more information, please contact S.U. Mahesh at 505-827-5134 (w) or 505-490-0976 (cell).
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