The New Mexico State Ethics Commission has reached a settlement agreement with Cuba Mayor Denny Herrera and his business, DDH, Inc. Fuel Service Station, resolving allegations of violations of the Governmental Conduct Act.
An investigation by the Commission revealed concerns that Herrera improperly benefited from a village directive that mandated village employees refuel vehicles exclusively at DDH, Inc., a gas station owned by the mayor. This directive was seen as a potential violation of Section 10-16-13.2(A) of the Governmental Conduct Act.
To avoid litigation, Herrera agreed to several settlement terms. He has formally notified the Village of Cuba of his ownership in DDH, Inc. and clarified that village employees are permitted to refuel at any gas station that accepts special government debit cards. Additionally, Herrera will pay $2,500 to the State of New Mexico and $1,000 to the Village of Cuba.
The settlement agreement resolves all claims in the dispute without Herrera admitting any wrongdoing. The State Ethics Commission enforces New Mexico’s governmental ethics and disclosure statutes, ensuring public officials adhere to ethical principles.
Herrera became Cuba’s mayor after winning a three-way race in March 2022.