Peter Lorenz Chair-Elect Unirac, Inc. | Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce’s Public Safety Bold Issue Group (BIG) began its new program year with a meeting focused on crime reduction and legislative advocacy. The session, held on August 19, featured presentations from Dan Schlegel, chief of staff for Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, and Kyle Hartsock, former commander of the Albuquerque Police Department’s Homicide Unit.
Schlegel discussed upcoming state legislative priorities that may be addressed in a special session anticipated for September or October. Among these are possible changes to legal definitions related to “harm to self and others,” which could affect how mental health crises are managed. He also mentioned efforts to strengthen health care infrastructure through the creation of health care compacts and increased funding for rural hospitals. Schlegel highlighted the administration’s intention to bolster Medicaid programs by allocating targeted appropriations to both the New Mexico Healthcare Authority and the Medicaid Trust Fund, as well as considering additional support for rural health care facilities.
Hartsock offered insights into public safety issues impacting local businesses and neighborhoods. He pointed out ongoing criminal activity along Southeast Central Avenue, noting it draws offenders from across Albuquerque. Hartsock described enforcement challenges around drug possession laws and emphasized concerns about repeat offenders and gun violence. He said these factors contribute to reduced business confidence and hinder economic development in affected areas.
Janice Torrez, president of Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Mexico and chair of the Public Safety BIG, led the meeting alongside vice chair Andres Garcia, president of Capra Bank New Mexico. Torrez shared her personal experience with a home invasion as an example of how crime affects residents throughout the community. She stated her commitment to advocating for legislative strategies that would help reduce crime rates: “We will double down on advocacy efforts, maintain sharp focus, and work diligently to achieve meaningful results for our community.”
Peter Lorenz, chairman of the board at the Chamber, reinforced this approach by stating: “We will double down on advocacy efforts, maintain sharp focus, and work diligently to achieve meaningful results for our community.”
The group aims to keep members informed about public safety developments while seeking solutions that address both immediate concerns and long-term challenges facing Albuquerque’s business environment.
