Events bring local, state, federal officials together to share federal resources that could help boost the economy in rural NM communities
ROSWELL, N.M. — Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall visited Roswell to kick off the first of six planned Rural Resource Roadshows, which he is holding in rural communities across the state to bring together community leaders, federal and state agencies, nonprofits, and other organizations that work to support rural communities. The events are an opportunity for elected officials, their staff, and others in the community to hear directly from federal and state agencies and nonprofits that support economic development and infrastructure initiatives in their area, learn about grants and other funding and support opportunities and how to apply for them.
Today’s event was held at Eastern New Mexico University-Roswell. Udall will host another roadshow in Tucumcari on Wednesday at Mesalands Community College. Future roadshows are planned in Las Vegas, Farmington, Truth or Consequences, and Los Lunas.
“As a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I work hard to do everything I can to connect New Mexico’s rural communities to critical federal funding sources — like grants — for everything from broadband internet to downtown development to wastewater treatment plant construction and repairs. Lots of resources are available to help rural communities make big improvements in their communities, but it can be difficult and very time-consuming to find the resources and apply,” Udall said. “I have learned that we are strongest when we work together, and that’s why I’m bringing local, state, federal, nonprofit and economic development officials together to share information about needs and funding resources. My goal with these Rural Resource Roadshows is to make sure communities know what opportunities are available from federal agencies, strategies for successfully applying for them, and how to leverage those resources to boost the economy in New Mexico's rural communities."
Participants at the events will hear from the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Rural Development, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the U.S. Economic Development Administration, the N.M. Finance Authority, Grow New Mexico, and the National Center for Frontier Communities.
Today’s roadshow was co-hosted by the Southeast Council of Governments (COG), and the Tucumcari roadshow will be co-hosted by the Eastern Plains COG. Both COGs act as a liaison between federal, state and local governments, helping municipal staff understand required plans, deadlines, and government processes. They also assist local governments in planning for major capital improvements, procuring federal and state aid or needed capital improvement projects, and assisting with capacity building and technical assistance.
Udall’s office, in partnership with the other members of the congressional delegation, also provides assistance to New Mexico communities, nonprofits and others looking for information about grants and other opportunities. New Mexicans interested in more information about the Rural Resource Roadshows may contact 505-346-6791.
