Based on their unique patient population, Hidalgo Medical services qualified for $697,520 from an approved project application from the Health Resources Services Administration under the American Rescue Plan specifically for Federally Qualified Health Care Centers. According to a news release, “the funding will be used to purchase two new clinics to replace the current aging facilities. The first clinic will be in Animas on the campus of the Animas School District. The second clinic will be placed in Mimbres on the same lot where La Tienda De Sol store is currently located. Once the buildings are delivered and set up, the process of the State Department of Health licensing and site credentialing must be completed prior to use of the buildings.” Dr. Dan Otero, HMS’ CEO, stated the project’s total cost is estimated to be approximately $714,052, of which HMS is contributing a minimum of $34,532 to complete the project. In addition, HMS hopes to have the Animas Clinic open for services this summer, followed by the opening of the Mimbres clinic in early Fall.

The Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Department held a swearing-in ceremony by new HCSD Sheriff, William Chadborn. According to a news release, the Hidalgo County Department office is responsible for covering 3,446 square miles in the county with a population of 4,894 in addition to handing criminal and civil matters and court functions. Lt. Andrew Arredondo was sworn in including deputies Joseph Flores, Jose Rodriguez, Adrian Caesar Jacquez, Ty Hendrix, and Alejandro Ramirez.

Opening Day of the first session of the 56th Legislature 60-day session began today at 12 noon, running through March 18th. The public can go online and view live committee meetings, watch legislators live on the floor and learn about specific details on legislation at https://nmlegis.gov/