Governor Lujan at NNMC Town Hall

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham made her third stop on the Public Safety Tour at Northern New Mexico College on July 30, 2024, where she addressed public safety concerns and gathered feedback from Rio Arriba County residents. The town hall meeting, attended by numerous elected officials and leaders from local Pueblos, underscored the community's urgent concerns about crime and safety.

NNMC President Hector Balderas, a former New Mexico Attorney General, introduced Governor Lujan Grisham to the packed auditorium. He emphasized the importance of community safety as a foundation for prosperity, expressing the college's honor in hosting the event and providing a platform for local voices.

Residents voiced their concerns passionately, reflecting the depth of the issues at hand. Tirzio Lopez of Cebolla shared his decision to carry a firearm for his family's protection amidst a surge in violent crime. He called for increased funding for dispatchers, police officers, and first responders, highlighting the pervasive presence of criminal organizations.

"It's not just here in Española, it's countywide," Lopez said, becoming emotional. "It's statewide. Please help us."

Debra Wilson addressed the issue of drunk driving, advocating for stricter laws and penalties for repeat offenders. She contrasted New Mexico's approach with other states, calling for decisive action to save lives.

"I come from a state where they would never, ever tolerate that someone would have a fifth or sixth DUI and still be out of prison," Wilson said. "I want to know what you are doing to strengthen our laws and take their cars away so we can address this issue."

Governor Lujan Grisham responded empathetically, acknowledging the challenges posed by mental health and addiction problems and emphasizing the need for comprehensive solutions. She highlighted her administration's efforts to improve public education, childcare services, and mental health treatment options, noting their critical role in long-term public safety.

The Governor also discussed the outcomes of a recent special legislative session, which addressed various public safety issues. While some priorities were not passed, she expressed determination to revisit these proposals in the upcoming regular legislative session. Key initiatives include increasing penalties for firearms possession during felonies, enhancing the court's ability to commit repeat offenders with mental health issues, and imposing harsher sentences for human and drug trafficking.

Governor Lujan Grisham emphasized the importance of community feedback in shaping effective policies, encouraging residents to share their experiences and insights.

"This conversation is important to me, personally, and to the entire state," she said. "This is a state that has recognized these risks for far too long. I think that will resonate, and we will hear from you about where we ought to go, what your personal experiences are, and what we should do differently."

The town hall concluded with a call to action from the Governor, urging lawmakers and residents to support efforts that address the intersection of mental health, addiction, and crime. She highlighted the progress made by her administration but acknowledged that more work is needed to achieve lasting change.

As Northern New Mexico College continues to be a hub for community engagement and dialogue, events like this town hall play a crucial role in fostering collaboration and understanding. The college's commitment to supporting local communities aligns with the Governor's vision of creating safe and prosperous environments for all New Mexicans.

Milam Shah, Communications Coordinator at Northern New Mexico College, reflected on the event's impact, noting the college's dedication to serving as a bridge between the community and state leaders. Shah emphasized the importance of inclusive and empathetic communication in addressing complex issues.

The town hall at Northern New Mexico College highlighted the power of community voices in shaping public safety policies. Governor Lujan Grisham's commitment to listening and responding to residents' concerns sets a positive tone for future collaboration and progress in New Mexico.