The Bernalillo County Economic Development Community Conversation took place on June 19, 2025, with the aim of fostering dialogue about community benefits and sustainability. The meeting began with Commissioner Frank Baca welcoming attendees and expressing gratitude for their participation. Baca, a newly elected official with deep roots in the South Valley, emphasized the importance of recognizing both the strengths and challenges facing the community.

Baca highlighted the positive developments within Bernalillo County while acknowledging the need to address existing challenges. He stated that his role as a commissioner is to listen to the community and facilitate discussions rather than lead them. He credited the initiative for the community dialogue to fellow Commissioner Barbara Baca and the county staff, underscoring the collaborative effort to engage residents in economic development.

Following Baca's introduction, Marcos Gonzales, the Executive Development Officer for Bernalillo County, outlined the purpose of the meeting. He explained that the goal of economic development is to create a thriving business environment that enhances the quality of life for all residents. Gonzales emphasized the importance of community input in shaping future strategies and policies for the economic development department. He encouraged attendees to participate actively in the process by accessing resources, attending future meetings, and completing a stakeholder survey.

The meeting set the stage for ongoing community engagement, aiming to gather valuable insights that will inform the county's economic development initiatives. The discussions highlighted a commitment to sustainability and the importance of listening to the voices of residents in shaping the future of Bernalillo County.