Mavita reports job and investment metrics; councilors press for evidence of returns and clearer incentives

Dovin Lopez, president of the Mesilla Valley Economic Development Alliance (Mavita), presented the organization’s annual update to the City Council and described recruitment, retention and workforce programs, then answered extended council questions about performance and incentives. Lopez summarized Mavita’s mission: “Our goal is to bring economic based jobs to the region, improving the health and wealth of residents around Dona Ana County and Las Cruces,” and listed marketing campaigns, business consultations and strategic initiatives including a locally managed closing fund and the Automate Up workforce program. Why this matters: Mavita is the city’s contracted economic-development partner; the organization’s ability to attract projects, jobs and capital investment affects municipal tax revenue, workforce opportunities and the city’s use of incentives. Lopez reported that under the city contract the organization met several targets (qualified prospects, site visits and completed projects) and cited 10‑year averages of about 315…