Information about the Economic Development Department.
In 1993 the Office of Economic Development was created to promote and facilitate business development, to create and implement economic development strategy, and to strengthen ties with the private sector.
Through Economic Development Office's many achievements and strong reputation for reliability, on July 1, 2006, the Office of Economic Development gained department status becoming the Economic Development Department.
Economic Development Department has evolved to become a policy-oriented, fast-moving department within the City. We work with the private sector, within city government and in partnership with other agencies, the Congressional delegation, state legislators and business groups.
We take a networking, problem-solving approach. We pride ourselves on responding quickly.
Department Staff
Staff competencies include finance, recruitment, small-business development, tourism, international trade, and film and multi-media.
John Garcia, Director, Economic Development Department, is responsible for all aspects of operations of Economic Development Department. John brings extensive experience and a varied background in economic development to the department. He previously served as Cabinet Secretary of New Mexico’s Tourism and Economic Development departments, senior officer of economic development at the University of New Mexico, in addition to various other positions in both the private and public sectors.
(505) 768-3270
jag@cabq.gov
Deirdre Firth, Manager of Economic Development Division, is responsible for Economic Development Department’s recruitment and expansion projects and programs, including Industrial Revenue Bonds. Previously she was vice president for business development at Albuquerque Economic Development Inc., a development consultant, and an urban and regional planner.
(505) 768-3269
dfirth@cabq.gov
Ann Lerner, Film Liaison, brings 20 years of production experience in the film industry to the Albuquerque Film Office. Its mission is to promote and attract the film industry to Albuquerque. Her responsibilities include marketing, location scouting, production meetings, community walk-throughs, on-site visits, location follow-ups, and coordinating special screenings.
(505) 768-3283
alerner@cabq.gov
