Registration Opens for New Mexico’s Energy Economy Town Hall

ALBUQUERQUE, NM, March 23, 2009 -- New Mexico First, a statewide public policy organization announced that its 2009 statewide town hall will address New Mexico’s energy economy. The town hall, entitled “Growing New Mexico’s Energy Economy" will be held in Albuquerque May 14 - 16.

Heather Balas, New Mexico First’s President and Executive Director said she is excited about the prospect of May’s event bringing together New Mexicans from every region and many different walks of life to participate in this year’s discussion.

“People use to think of energy policy choices as ‘either/or’ propositions,” Balas noted, “but these arguments may not hold up anymore.” She hopes the 2009 town hall will help citizens explore the connections between energy policy and economic develop strategy and make concrete recommendations for policymakers and community leaders.

All community members are invited to participate in this three-day statewide town hall to discuss priorities and concerns related to New Mexico’s energy economy, its progress, and its future. “New Mexico has the potential to be a national leader in energy production,” said Balas. “We have tremendous natural resources below the ground and above our head, from oil and gas to wind and solar. This is a perfect time to refine our state’s energy policy.”

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. A background report, developed for participants, will be released next month.

Who: All community members including: community leaders and citizens, business leaders and managers, economic development professionals, environmentalists, energy producers and advocates, state and local policymakers
What: Statewide town hall on growing New Mexico’s energy economy
Where:Albuquerque Convention Center, Albuquerque, 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: Early registration by April 17 - $175 for New Mexico First members; $200 for non-members