Senator-elect John Block has criticized Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's proposal to redevelop the New Mexico State Fairgrounds into a mixed-use property. Block said, "sounds like she wants to build a slum city," in a December 4 post on X.
"What is a “mixed-use house," said Block, District 51 NM State Representative. "Sounds like she wants to build a slum city."
According to the Santa Fe New Mexican, the redevelopment plan for the 236-acre Expo New Mexico property includes proposals for mixed-use housing, retail, and entertainment areas. A $500,000 request for proposals (RFP) will fund the creation of a master plan. The State Fair Commission unanimously voted to issue the RFP, which will remain open for 45 days starting December 6, 2024.
John Block's tweet on the mixed-use housing plan.
| https://x.com/RepBlock/status/1864430656832590160
KOB News reports that Bronson Corn, president of the New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association, opposes the project. Corn said, "Relocating the fairgrounds will take away an important opportunity for urban residents to connect with agriculture." Tawnya Mullen of the South San Pedro Neighborhood Association also expressed concerns about gentrification and urged planners to ensure the project includes "truly affordable housing" to avoid "pricing out" longtime residents.
KRQE News highlights that the New Mexico State Fairgrounds have become a hotspot for homeless encampments. Nearby residents have voiced concerns over trash accumulation and safety issues, fearing these challenges could complicate redevelopment plans unless properly addressed.
According to his website, John Block is a native New Mexican and Republican state representative. Before entering politics, Block worked in various roles including as a legislative staffer and PAC manager. He founded Piñon Post, described as New Mexico’s leading conservative news outlet. Block holds a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Rutgers University and an MBA from Eastern New Mexico University. He resides in Alamogordo.
