At its meeting on December 19, the city's Environmental Planning Commission considered extensive testimony regarding the proposed Mesa Film Studios on the West Side. The commission ultimately approved the project with a 7-1 vote.

The planned 60-acre film studio is expected to create numerous job opportunities, including 25 direct hires, between 700 and 800 jobs through tenant productions, as well as hundreds of indirect jobs supported by business services and household spending. The facility will feature six stages, two flex buildings, a mill building for set construction and storage, a permanent three-wall blue/green screen on the back lot, and office space.

Tom Jenkins, chairman of Economic Development teams for the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce, expressed strong support for Mesa Film Studios. He emphasized that "for more than a decade, there’s been no bigger private-sector success story for New Mexico than the film industry," highlighting the need for jobs and development in Albuquerque's West Side.

"Our City Council and mayor have already approved a lease with Mesa Film Studios and specifically listed the movie studio as an allowed use," Jenkins stated. "Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has been vocal with her support. The total investment is $85 million in just the first phase of the project."

In November, the commission deferred its decision due to public notification procedure issues. Officials now note that individuals have until January 6 to appeal this recent decision by the EPC. If unchallenged, subsequent steps include design review team assessments and meetings with development facilitation teams before proceeding with subdivision processes and building permit applications.

The aim is to commence construction early in the new year if all goes according to plan.