ABQ Times

Tonight, the Albuquerque City Council approved key expansions impacting the city's economy. The council gave the go-ahead for the expansion of Mesa Films and sanctioned the use of Local Economic Development Act (LEDA) funds to support the expansion of Vitality Works. Both projects are expected to enhance employment opportunities in the West Side Community.

Mesa Film Studios, a project of Mesa Media Group, will expand its operations on a 60-acre site near Double Eagle II Airport. The expansion plans include 312,000 square feet of development on the site, such as six sound stages, a large mill, and 60,000 square feet of office space.

City Councilor Louie Sanchez, who represents District 1, supported the council's decisions. "This is a major win for the Westside and all of Albuquerque," he stated. The first year of the West Mesa Films expansion is anticipated to generate 24 full-time jobs and over 750 studio production jobs. According to Sanchez, these jobs will offer competitive pay and contribute to reducing commute times and pollution, thereby boosting the local economy. He remarked, "This smart growth initiative demonstrates our commitment to fostering a thriving and connected city."

Additionally, the council approved Ordinance O-25-82, which authorizes LEDA incentives totaling $600,000. This includes $500,000 in state funds and $100,000 in city funds to support Vitality Works, Inc., an Albuquerque-based manufacturer of herbal, vitamin, and nutraceutical supplements.

Councilor Sanchez expressed the significance of this investment, saying, "Vitality Works is a valued member of our community with a long history of local investment and a commitment to sustainability." He mentioned that the partnership aligns with the city's economic development goals by supporting a key local business and offering quality job opportunities.

The LEDA funds will aid a $5.2 million project for Vitality Works, which includes constructing a new warehouse, upgrading production areas, and improving utilities. This project is expected to create 18 new full-time jobs, offering an average salary of $46,429 with benefits. The company will also participate in the State's Job Training Incentive Program.