County officials discuss economic forecasting amid federal funding cuts

During the Santa Fe County Board of County Commissioners Special Meeting on May 7, 2025, a significant discussion emerged regarding the potential impacts of federal budget cuts on local funding. Commissioner Bustamante emphasized the need for proactive measures to analyze and forecast the effects of the Trump administration's "America First" budget policies, which could lead to substantial funding reductions for the county.

Bustamante highlighted the creation of an interim committee by New Mexico lawmakers aimed at assessing federal funding streams. He expressed a desire for the county to take the lead in innovative economic forecasting, suggesting collaboration with organizations like the National Association of Counties (NACO) and think tanks such as Brookings. He urged fellow commissioners to consider investing in robust economic modeling to better understand the risks associated with potential budget cuts.

"This is an elephant in the room that we've never seen before," Bustamante stated, stressing the importance of being prepared for the financial challenges ahead. He called for a comprehensive approach to budgeting that includes not only current revenue assessments but also risk modeling to anticipate future funding shortfalls.

The meeting also featured a brief acknowledgment from Commissioner Hughes, who expressed gratitude to the public works team for their efforts, particularly in relation to ongoing projects.

As the county prepares for its next meeting, the discussions signal a critical moment for Santa Fe County as it navigates uncertain federal funding landscapes and seeks to safeguard its financial future.