Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities

Richardson to hold local press conference

Gov. Bill Richardson will stop in Clovis this morning to announce funding allocations for critical water and housing projects in this part of the state, according to state officials.

The governor was to field a news conference in the Ingram Room of the Clovis-Carver Public Library from 8:30-9:15 a.m. today to announce funding allocations for storm drainage and low-to-moderate income housing improvement projects, according to a press release from the governor’s office.

From 9:45-10:30 a.m. today, Richardson will speak at a news conference at Portales City Hall, announcing the allocation of funding for the conversion of wells from agricultural to city use in the Portales area, the press release stated.

“There is no issue more critical to our state than water,” Richardson said in a news release. “My priority is to ensure every New Mexico community has an adequate, reliable and high-quality supply of water now, and into the future. That’s why I’m taking action on these projects, and why I’m determined to make sure New Mexico is a leader in water conservation, re-use and recycling. We have to prepare for the future now.”

Clovis City Manager Raymond Mondragon said he was aware of the governor’s visit today, but said he could not release information on what the governor would announce.

“His staff asked our city commissioners to be present,” Mondragon said. “I can’t say what he will announce, but he will announce news relevant to the city of Clovis.”

Portales Mayor Orlando Ortega said he “kinda knows” what the governor will say, but he may not.

“I don’t want to say anything until (today),” he said. “I don’t want to offend anyone. I don’t want to jump the gun on the press conference. But it will be a positive announcement.”