OPINION: New head of economic development a savvy pick by the governor

Now more than ever, New Mexico deserves experienced leadership and decision-makers who are willing to take bold action for the health, well-being, and progress of our state.

This is why we are excited to see Rob Black newly appointed to head the New Mexico Economic Development Department. Cabinet Secretary Designee Black is an experienced and talented professional, and an excellent appointment to lead this vital state agency.

Over the past three years, we have had the privilege of working with Secretary Black as a colleague on New Mexico’s Sustainable Economy Task Force. Created during the 2020 legislative session, the task force and its community advisory council have worked on developing a strategic plan to move New Mexico’s economy away from reliance on natural resource extraction.

Throughout this process, Secretary Black has been a thoughtful voice, lending expertise from his long professional career to help craft policies and projects that will elevate sustainable economic development throughout our state. Still council members of the task force’s community advisory council, and James as vice chair of the task force, we look forward to continuing our work with Secretary Black to transition our state’s economy away from an over-dependence on extractive industries, in his new capacity.

With the task force’s strategic plan, leaders like Secretary Black will have a roadmap to achieve a diversified revenue stream and long-term sustainability for our state’s natural resources and economy. Among other benefits, the plan will provide pathways of economic opportunity for New Mexicans and ensure our community members can comfortably live, work, and professionally grow in their home state.

Most significantly, our recommendations would create a dedicated and fully funded office within NMEDD that will tackle this pressing economic issue.

How do we know that Secretary Black will champion this important plan?

Most importantly, he voted to support key recommendations from the council, such as creating the aforementioned dedicated office within NMEDD and embedding community and tribal engagement within policy language and implementation. Secretary Black also grew up in Lovington, within the heart of our state’s oil and gas producing communities, and is dedicated to providing opportunity for New Mexico’s next generations.

What’s more, he understands the urgency of our state’s energy transition. By opening doors for clean energy opportunities, Secretary Black will ensure the long-term security of New Mexico’s economy and protect the health of our communities. He understands that we have “limited time to make a big difference” in our state’s future, and we are confident that he’ll act on this key understanding.

We commend the governor for her savvy appointment, and we look forward to working with Secretary Black as we chart a path toward a state where our air, land, and water are protected, and all New Mexicans thrive.

James Povijua works for Natural Resources Defense Council and is vice chair of the Sustainable Economy Task Force and chair of its community advisory council. Ahtza Chavez is the chief executive officer of Naeva and a member of the Sustainable Economy Advisory Council.