With efforts underway in the City of Albuquerque to change to a City Manager/weak mayor form of government (which Phoenix has), there has been a good deal of back-and-forth in the media comparing Phoenix and Albuquerque.
Advocates of the governance change say Albuquerque’s “strong mayor” system is hurting the City while others say that is not the case. We don’t have a position on that governance issue, but DO want to see a vote and robust debate on the issue, especially if one of the focal points is the superior growth of Phoenix relative to Albuquerque.
We believe that the primary difference is the massive difference in economic freedom and educational freedom with Arizona being more economically-free than New Mexico. If New Mexico (or Albuquerque) wants to compete with Arizona (or Phoenix) it must change the Legislature and elect better governors in ways that emphasize economic growth and educational freedom.
438 homicides in Phoenix 2022.
121 homicides in Albuquerque 2022.
In today’s world, where large metros sprawl across multiple counties, adjoining towns and suburbs, we cannot look to or blame one person or one position for our failing or succeeding in population growth and economic development. Long term economic growth and viability comes from strategic alliances and leaders working together throughout the region, working towards shared goals, and it comes from Albuquerque residents having the desire for a bigger and better life here.
Agreed, but we can blame the New Mexico Legislature.