Registration Opens for Rural Economic Development Town Hall
ALBUQUERQUE, NM, February 6, 2008—New Mexico First, a nonpartisan organization formed by U.S. Senators Pete Domenici and Jeff Bingaman in 1986, Monday announced that its 2008 statewide town hall will address rural economies and rural-urban partnerships. The town hall, entitled "Business as UNusual: A Town Hall on Rural-Urban Economic Development" will be held in Ruidoso March 27-29.
Heather Balas, New Mexico First’s President and Executive Director said she is excited about the prospect of March’s event bringing together New Mexicans from every region and many different walks of life to participate in this year’s discussion.
“Rural communities across the state are struggling,” Balas, a Portales native, noted. “We want this event to enable those towns to problem-solve alongside other communities throughout the state.”
All community members are invited to participate in this three-day statewide town hall to discuss priorities and concerns related to rural economic development in New Mexico, its progress and its future. “Whether the concern lies with infrastructure, jobs, investments in energy, agricultural preservation, community building, or sustainable growth, citizens cite rural economic development as a primary concern, “ says Balas.
The town hall, which will be limited to 120 participants, will discuss these concerns and provide policymakers with consensus driven recommendations. Individuals interested in attending the town hall should register by visiting www.nmfirst.org. An issue guide, developed for participants, will be released next month.
Who: All community members including: business leaders, farmers and ranchers, educators, civic leaders, and economic development specialists
What: Annual statewide town hall on rural economic development solutions
Where: Inn of the Mountain Gods, Ruidoso, New Mexico
Convener: New Mexico First, a nonpartisan organization dedicated to engaging citizens in policy
Registration: Register by visiting www.nmfirst.org or for more information please call 505.241.4813.
Cost: $150 for New Mexico First members; $200 for non-members
For more information, please contact Jacey Blue Campbell at 505.241.4814 or jaceyc@nmfirst.org.