Opinion ID: 1145452
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 8

Heading: Material Facts in Issue

Text: The Association claims that the district court erred by granting summary judgment and confirming the contracts because there are material facts still in issue, namely that the BOR does not have enough water available to meet its obligations under the contracts. The assumption underlying the contracts, which is incorrect according to the Association, is that there is a pool of unappropriated water available for the contract beneficiaries. The Association argues that this constitutes lack of consideration, which is fatal to the validity of the contracts. The Commission asserts that even if the exact amount of water is in dispute under the contract, it is not material to whether the contract is valid, and we agree. The Association's argument is akin to an assertion of anticipatory breach, which is not material to the formation of the contract. A contract may be construed before its breach. See NMSA 1978, § 44-6-5. Even if there is a dispute over immaterial issues, summary judgment is proper as long as no material facts are disputed. Smith v. Price's Creameries, 98 N.M. 541, 546, 650 P.2d 825, 830 (1982).