Many New Mexico Residents Welcome Intel and New Jobs

The article on Intel in New Mexico (“Land of Disenchantment,” May 4) would give you the impression that the citizenry at large is up in arms against economic growth, but in truth, it’s a small but vocal group.

Over 800 people from Albuquerque and Rio Rancho attended a sold-out luncheon in January to thank Intel for their presence and growth in New Mexico, while 17 people protested outside. The number of supporters in the community far outweigh the detractors.

As for aquifer water use, residential use in Albuquerque makes up 60% of consumption, while 3% is industrial. Intel’s use in Rio Rancho, counted separately, is another 3%. Apartments, office and commercial use takes 28%, and 9% goes to government and parks. Even after Intel’s $1.8-billion expansion, industrial use of water is projected to remain under 9% of total daily consumption, much less than in many Southwest cities.

As residents of California have discovered, everyone must do their part to use water wisely. The peak of water use in Albuquerque occurs in summer as lawn watering doubles or triples winter usage amounts. Industrial use remains constant throughout the year. Intel is working aggressively to conserve and recycle the water they use. Residents could learn a few lessons from Intel’s example.

Too often in New Mexico’s recent history, our young people have had to go elsewhere to find the kinds of jobs that Intel and other high-tech employers are bringing to the state. We continue to welcome these companies and will do all we can to attract such manufacturers to New Mexico.

WILLIAM E. GARCIA

New Mexico economic

development secretary

Santa Fe