Bernalillo County leaders’ legislative priorities and housing goals are largely aligned with those that Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham identified in her State of the State speech.
One county commissioner said she’s optimistic about the possibility of meaningful steps taken to address the state’s — and the county’s — housing crises.
“I was appreciative of some of the things she said about housing,” Commissioner Barbara Baca told CityDesk ABQ shortly after the speech.
Lujan Grisham’s proposals include establishing a state-funded Office of Housing, $50 million in subsidies for housing development and another $50 million for services that help people escape homelessness.
“I think homelessness is the number-one issue nationwide,” Baca said. “Housing — affordable, sustainable housing — is Bernalillo County’s highest priority.”
County commissioners are also seeking more than $100 million from the Legislature. Baca said the actual local need is even greater and acknowledged that there are competing needs in the state budget.
However, she said, she’s confident that the local crises will be addressed in Santa Fe. Baca said she plans to make herself available to legislators for discussion on the issue.
“I always feel a sense of energy and excitement about the session starting,” Baca said.
A county news release says Bernalillo County representatives will be advocating for legislative and capital outlay priorities focused on improving quality of life and supporting long-term growth.
“Bernalillo County is committed to working closely with lawmakers and Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham to make meaningful progress,” County Manager Cindy Chavez said. “These priorities reflect our dedication to creating a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant community for all New Mexicans.”
Other priorities include:
Behavioral health: securing sustainable funding to plan, build, renovate and operate behavioral health facilities to meet growing community needs.
Community schools: supporting dedicated budget dollars to ensure the long-term sustainability of community schools statewide.
Capital outlay reform: modernizing the state’s capital outlay process to streamline project approvals and enhance efficiency, particularly for non-governmental organizations.
Recreational land access: backing legislation to expand public access to trails and lands owned by the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District.
The county’s suggested capital outlay items include new affordable housing for seniors, a new early learning center to replace the PB&J Family Services building, additional animal shelter capacity and expansion of the Mesa del Sol Sports Complex.
“These projects are vital to improving lives and providing new opportunities for our community,” Commission Chair Eric Olivas said. “We’re eager to collaborate with our partners in Santa Fe to turn these priorities into reality.”