In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around the ownership of a controversial monument in Santa Fe, New Mexico, revealing significant confusion regarding its jurisdiction and legal status. City officials, including City Attorney Mick Sherry, addressed questions about whether the state or the city holds ownership of the monument, a topic that has generated debate over the past four years.

Council members raised concerns about the clarity of ownership, with one councilor suggesting that the city should directly inquire with the state to determine if it claims ownership. The conversation highlighted the complexities surrounding the monument's status, which is described as both a state registered and federally registered monument, funded during the territorial period. This has led to mixed interpretations of its ownership, with officials noting that terms like \"state monument\" can be misleading.

City Attorney Sherry emphasized the lack of definitive expert opinions on the matter, stating that her office does not conduct property research. Instead, a property manager from the land use department is responsible for investigating ownership claims. Sherry noted that the confusion surrounding the monument's ownership has complicated discussions about potential criminal charges related to vandalism incidents, with various stakeholders unsure of the appropriate jurisdiction to address these issues.

The meeting underscored the need for clearer communication and research regarding the monument's legal status, as officials continue to navigate the complexities of ownership and jurisdiction in this ongoing debate.