New Mexico § 3-12-3 - Governing body; powers and duties

Full text of New Mexico New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 3-12-3 — Governing body; powers and duties, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 3-12-3. Governing body; powers and duties

A. The governing body of a municipality having a mayor-council form of government

shall: (1) elect one of its members to act as mayor pro tem in the absence of the mayor; (2) possess all powers granted by law, and other municipal powers not conferred by

law or ordinance on another officer of the municipality; (3) manage and control the finances and all property, real and personal, belonging

to the municipality; (4) determine the time and place of holding its meetings, which shall be open to the

public; (5) determine the rules of its own proceedings; (6) keep minutes of its proceedings, which shall be open to examination by any citizen; (7) adopt rules and regulations necessary to effect the powers granted municipalities; (8) prescribe the compensation and fees to be paid municipal officers and employees;

and (9) prescribe the powers and duties of those officers whose terms of office or powers

and duties are not defined by law, and impose additional powers and duties upon those

officers whose powers and duties are prescribed by law. B. The governing body of a municipality having a mayor-council form of government

may remit the fine of any person convicted of a violation of a municipal ordinance. C. The governing body may compel the attendance of absent members in such manner and

under such penalties it deems desirable. D. The mayor or a majority of the members of the governing body may call special meetings

by notice to each member of the governing body, personally served or left at his usual

place of residence.

Source: official New Mexico text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About New Mexico § 3-12-3

What does New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 3-12-3 cover?

Section 3-12-3 ("Governing body; powers and duties") is part of the New Mexico Statutes Annotated, the codified statutory law of New Mexico. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite New Mexico § 3-12-3?

A common citation format is "New Mexico Statutes Annotated § 3-12-3" (New Mexico). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of New Mexico law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the New Mexico official source linked on this page or consult a licensed New Mexico attorney.

How does New Mexico § 3-12-3 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in New Mexico can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in New Mexico.