Bernalillo County Commissioner Art De La Cruz will meet this afternoon with both General Electric Company managers and union representatives to determine if GE will keep the New Mexico plant open.   Commissioner De La Cruz has met with both sides during this negotiation period, however, this will be the first joint meeting where both sides are at the table with a government official.  GE announced plans earlier this summer to close its Albuquerque facility by fall 2010. The plant employs about 400 workers and has been producing airplane engine parts here since the late 1960s.

 “I have encouraged GE to provide the community with alternatives, and a plan to keep these jobs as well as expanding their operations in Bernalillo County.   The congressional delegation, the local elected officials and all New Mexicans want this plant.  Time is running out and I want GE to show their commitment to our state and the New Mexicans that have faithfully served this company,” says Commissioner De La Cruz. “If this plant closes it will represent a significant loss to everyone in our community.”