Rep, Ben Ray Luján Names Local Economic Recovery Team

Rep. Luján distributing DTV info in Espanola recently

Rep. Ben Ray Luján has been focusing like a laser beam on economic recovery. Last week he toured New Mexico's Third Congressional District to discuss economic recovery and spoke to the New Mexico Legislature on the topic (see archived posts). In an op-ed in today's Santa Fe New Mexican, he lays out his thoughts on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) and what the legislation will mean for New Mexico. Bottom line: we need bold action, and passage of the ARRA was step one.

Today, Rep. Lujan also established his Economic Recovery team to manage local implementation of the ARRA and assist local governments and constituents in the public and private sector with the stimulus package. According to a statement from the Congressman's office, Rep. Luján named three key staff members to the team. Chris Neubauer, Rep. Luján’s Deputy District Director, will lead the team as the Economic Recovery Coordinator. Patrick Duran and Tracy West will join the team as Economic Recovery Liaisons. The team will be the first point of contact for public and private officials and constituents interested in learning about the benefits of the Economic Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

“As the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is implemented, my Economic Recovery team will work with public and private officials and constituents to answer questions and help local governments and businesses benefit from the Recovery Act,” said Rep. Luján in the statement. “This team has significant experience working with local governments and constituents in the public and private sector. They will be able to assist constituents, businesses, and local governments as the Recovery Act is implemented and begins to create and save jobs in the 3rd Congressional District.”

The Economic Recovery team will be based out the Rep. Luján’s Rio Rancho office. Chris Neubauer, Rep. Luján’s Deputy District Director, formerly worked for Congressman Tom Udall, assisting constituents with federal agencies. Tracy West is a Constituent Liaison who formerly worked for the University of New Mexico. Patrick Duran is a Field Representative and District Liaison for Economic Development, who worked for Arizona State University for 14 years where he developed and managed various programs, including a unique and highly successful entrepreneurial program recognized by the Wall Street Journal.

(Photo from Rep. Lujan's Flickr account.)