The Questa Public Library was the site of a public meeting with Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham on Saturday, May 15. Having led a meeting earlier in Taos, she was accompanied by NM State Senator Bobby Gonzales, NM Representative Kristina Ortez, and Under-Secretary of Agriculture for Rural Development, Xochitl Torres Small. Questa Mayor John Ortega, Village Councilman Brent Jaramillo, and Red River Mayor Linda Calhoun were also in attendance. All told there were about 50 persons present.

Governor Grisham discussed the challenges the state faces with wildfires, including the Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak Fire near Las Vegas and Mora. After explaining her plans to work with the federal government for relief for the displaced residents and restoration of the forest, the governor invited discussion. Topics from the public ranged from ways to better manage the restoration of the land and prevent future fires to concerns of the mental health of retired volunteer firemen and EMTs.

At the close of the meeting, the governor toured the new wing of the library, which was made possible after she had approved the allocation of funds introduced by the late Senator Carlos R. Cisneros in 2018.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham visited the Questa Library on Saturday May 15. From left to right, NM Representative Kristina Ortez, NM State Senator Bobby Gonzales, Governor Grisham, Under-Secretary of Agriculture for Rural Development, Xochitl Torres Small, Questa Mayor John Ortega, Questa Councilman, and Taos County Manager Brent Jaramillo.