Commissioner Baca initiates community dialogue on Bernalillo County economic development

Bernalillo County officials gathered on July 15 for a community conversation focused on workforce training and economic transparency, aiming to engage residents in shaping the county's economic development strategies. Commissioner Barbara Baca opened the meeting, emphasizing the importance of creating an environment where businesses can thrive and residents can secure quality jobs.

Baca highlighted the need for community involvement in economic discussions, stating, “This is really a community-driven process.” She expressed a desire to retain local talent, noting her own children had moved away after college. The commissioner underscored the interconnectedness of public safety, housing, mental health, and economic growth, asserting that a robust economy benefits all aspects of community life.

Marcos Gonzalez, the executive development officer for Bernalillo County, reiterated the meeting's purpose: to gather input from residents on economic development priorities. He encouraged attendees to share their thoughts on how to enhance local business incentives and improve the quality of life for all county residents. “Your comments will be used to develop the economic development department's future strategies and programming,” Gonzalez stated.

The meeting also served as a platform for discussing workforce training, a critical component in preparing residents for available jobs and ensuring that local businesses have access to skilled labor. Participants were invited to engage in discussions and provide feedback that will inform future policies and initiatives.

As the meeting concluded, Baca reassured attendees that this dialogue marks the beginning of an ongoing conversation about economic development in Bernalillo County. She encouraged community members to stay involved and share their insights, as the steering committee will continue to gather recommendations to present to the county commission later this year. This collaborative approach aims to foster a thriving economic environment that benefits all residents of Bernalillo County.