Gov. backs Luna County Emergency Operations Center with state funding
DEMING – Luna County and City of Deming officials welcomed New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham on Thursday for an announcement that is expected to benefit both governments and neighboring communities in the near future. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham announced $2.1 million in state funding has been allocated for a new emergency operations center in Luna County. Members of local law enforcement and first responders were also present for the announcement.
“Every minute of every day, heroes like our first responders protect and serve residents and keep our communities safe,” said Gov. Lujan Grisham. “It’s our responsibility to provide these individuals with the tools they need to do their jobs. Today’s announcement is not only about improving the safety of the community – it's also about respecting the incredible work of these men and women.”
The Army National Guard Armory located at 700 S. Pearl Street in Deming will serve as the new emergency operations center and the money allocated from the state of New Mexico will be used toward the upgrade and renovation of the facility.
The armory was a resting area that housed soldiers who were in transit from one fort to another. It also served as a temporary forward operating base during the escalation of violence along the U.S.-Mexico border back in 2005. In 2001, it became a focal point as a military installation following the attack on 9/11. The armory was fortified with concrete barriers.
The armory served the community in many facets through the years. It was foremost the summer training headquarters for the New Mexico Army National Guard for many years. It was rented for wedding receptions and quinceaneras. It was also a sporting venue for amateur boxing cards. In recent years, the armory was an emergency hub for housing migrants and their children who were seeking asylum. It is a primary food distribution center for families and senior citizens in need through the nonprofit Colores United and the Roadrunner Food Bank of New Mexico.
The transfer of the facility was made possible through an agreement with county, state and federal agencies.
"This funding will enable our county and surrounding communities to move into the 21st century in how we monitor and respond to emergency situations, undoubtedly saving lives and property as a result,” said Luna County Manager Chris Brice. “Luna County truly appreciates Gov. Lujan Grisham for her tireless support of our community and all first responders.”
The current emergency operations center is located in a 45-year-old former county jail at 700 S. Silver St. adjacent to the historic Luna County Courthouse. The building has been cursed with significant drainage and sewer issues and no emergency power source.
The new Deming Readiness Center will have a bunk area with showers, and large classrooms for tabletop exercises. The new center will house the county’s Central Dispatch, Emergency Management and equipment from the volunteer fire department.
Gov. Lujan Grisham tasked Luna County and City of Deming with eventually providing the Deming Readiness Center to neighboring counties for training, hands-on drills and classroom instruction for all types of emergency situations.
The $3.6 million project is also supported by $1.5 million in Congressionally Directed Spending from Sen. Martin Heinrich and Sen. Ben Ray Luján.
Bill Armendariz contributed to this report. He can be reached at 575-494-5059 or biarmendariz@demingheadlight.com.
This article originally appeared on Deming Headlight: Gov. backs Luna County Emergency Operations Center with state funding
