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Stream Town Hall Here 3-14-2024 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

SANTA FE, NM – In an effort to address concerns related to Per- and Polyfluorinated Substances (PFAS) in the La Cienega and La Cieneguilla areas, Santa Fe County is scheduled to host a Town Hall on Thursday, March 14, 2024, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Santa Fe Community College. Collaborating with key stakeholders such as the New Mexico Army National Guard, New Mexico Environment Department, City of Santa Fe, and representatives from the New Mexico Congressional Delegation, this community meeting aims to provide an opportunity for residents to gain valuable insights into PFAS.

PFAS, a group of human-made chemicals utilized in various industries and consumer products since the 1940s, have garnered increasing attention due to their potential adverse effects on human health. Found in everyday items like food packaging, cleaning products, and firefighting foam, PFAS exposure has been associated with impacts on reproduction, thyroid function, the immune system, and potential liver damage. Moreover, studies suggest links between certain PFAS, including PFOA, and specific types of cancer.

Commissioner Bustamante emphasized, "This town hall is an important part of the overall need to listen to community members so that we may collectively address the PFAS and water quality issues that affect their daily lives." 

The town-hall will be moderated by Rosemary Romero, a professional facilitator specializing in discussions on water, environment, and forests in New Mexico. Ms. Romero will host a panel comprised of representatives from stakeholder agencies. This panel will provide updates and valuable resources on addressing PFAS contamination. 

Residents are encouraged to submit their questions for the panelists in advance, no later than March 10, 2024, at 5:00pm. Questions can be emailed to Shelly Moeller at psiimoeller@gmail.com.

Recognizing the diverse community, the event will be spontaneously translated into Spanish, and translated educational materials will be made available.

Santa Fe County makes every practical effort to ensure that auxiliary aids or services are available for meetings and programs. Individuals who would like to request auxiliary aids or services should contact the Santa Fe County Manager’s Office at 505-986-6200 in advance to discuss specific needs (e.g., interpreters for the hearing impaired or readers for the sight impaired).

This Town Hall represents a crucial step in empowering the community with knowledge and fostering collaboration.

Who: Santa Fe County
What: PFAS Town Hall
When: Thursday, March 14, 2024, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Where: Santa Fe Community College Jemez Room: 6401 Richards Ave Santa Fe; Main Building
Contact: Brittney Montoya, Constituent Services Liaison (D3) at blovato@santafecountynm.gov or 505-986-6328.

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