Howalt preparing for challenges

Eastern New Mexico Water Utility Authority found their new executive director on Thursday in Justin Howalt.

link Howalt

A Clovis native, Howalt said his family and communities are the driving force behind his passion to complete the Ute Pipeline sooner rather than later. With 16 years of civil engineering experience including a term as Clovis's city engineer, Howalt has earned the water authority board's respect and trust to run the show.

Once he gets caught up to speed on the current status of the project, Howalt said he's ready to hit the ground running.

Where are you from?

I'm from Clovis. I grew up here. My dad was in the Air Force, and that's what brought us here.

What's your degree in?

I have a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from New Mexico State.

How many years of experience do you have with civil engineering?

I graduated from college in 1999, so 16 years. I've been doing water since 2005, in various forms. From design perspective to working with water rights now, to working with utility companies with wells.

What's your plan to build your office from the ground up?

As the initial employee for the water authority, I'll be responsible for coordination for engineers with CH2M Hill as far as the design process, any future grant writing, working with finance side and eventually growing the organization as the needs require for event employees, working out procedures for organization, all of these things that go into all the components of a business.

Do you plan to speed up the funding process for the Ute Pipeline?

It's a priority of course to continue seeking funding for the advancement of the project. I haven't started yet. I'm going to continue to work, obviously, with our state and federal legislature to receive capital outlay this year, continue seeking capital outlay dollars and dollars from the bureau (Bureau of Reclamation) or (state) water trust board.

Do you think the possibility of a bond is on the table to help speed up funding?

Yeah, I think all options are on the table. Nothing has been ruled out.

Are you looking forward to the rural water system boot camp with CH2M Hill?

Of course. And that's what it's gonna take. This project started years ago when Ute Lake was developed and the dam was increased for additional capacity. So, there's lots of history not only on the pipeline but also with funding that's already been secured, I'll have to bring myself up to speed on that and the design.

What are your hobbies?

Well, I have three daughters that keep my wife and myself very busy through their extracurricular activities and athletics. I occasionally try to play some golf.

Would you say part of your passion with the pipeline comes from wanting to provide your family with a better future?

Absolutely. This is not only for my family but also for each of these communities. You have to have a reliable source of water for growth and continue to exist.

When do you plan to expand your office and hire more employees? Where will it be?

EPCOG. Currently it's just me. We'll be working on the budget and hiring others depending on available funding and need.

— Compiled by Deputy Editor Brittney Cannon