Harbison: Where do we go from here?

Jim Harbison

Now that the Governor Martinez administration has begun we can only hope that the future of New Mexico becomes brighter. I am confident that she will surround herself with competent capable advisors to help overcome the significant problems that confront this state.

We know she has discovered some of the issues not disclosed prior to the elections including the much understated budget shortfalls. The budget imbalance is the most difficult problem for her administration. Finding solutions that will be acceptable to everyone will be impossible and there will have to be significant program and staff reductions, and necessary tax increases to meet the mandated balanced budget requirements. Her biggest test will be can she demonstrate real leadership and convince the legislature and the general public to make the required spending cuts and focus on the essential requirements of government. At this point in the current economic environment it will be necessary to forego the “nice to have” programs and focus on the “must have” programs. Read full column here:

Harbison: Where do we go from here?