Re: [MISP] Letter to Editor

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That's a tricky issue :)

I agree with the thought behind it, but a fundamental aspect of our case is knowing that every production dollar spent in New Mexico is more than returned through the other dollars spent and taxes on those dollars.  From that perspective, anything that reduces production in NM (such as caps or a decrease in rebates) means less income, jobs, etc. for New Mexico -- so I don't think we want to advocate that.

That said, there were some items within the existing incentives that the Film Office has wanted to refine.  While not quite as showy, I do think those address many of the particular concerns of our lawmakers.

And... because it comes up from time to time, I think we all need to keep in mind and express our respect and thanks for our legislators this year -- even those we might not agree with.  They have an incredibly difficult job this year!

Best wishes, 

Eric 

On Thu, Feb 11, 2010 at 11:46 AM, Michael Wallace <mgw@globalhaptics.com> wrote:

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Elizabeth, you can go online to the Albuquerque Journal site and write your
letter to the editor using their interface.  www.abqjournal.com  then go to the
Letters to the Editor section.  I don't know about the other papers, but likely
the same process will work.

I wonder if the power of restraint is an option.  When the Santa Fe Opera
recently declined to go ahead with a costly infrastructure improvement given
the economy and state budget woes, they were praised by the Journal, among
others.

Any interest group can make the case that continued support by taxpayers will
improve peoples lives and the economy.  But sometimes everyone is asked to give
a little when times are hard for all sorts of people and industries.  Is there
any give in the film industry messages?  Can this industry survive a year with
some sacrifice, only to come on stronger the following year, with added local
public support (because of restraint)?   Or is the only case that it's all or
nothing?

Quoting Elizabeth Gaylynn Baker <goodfilms11@GMAIL.COM>:

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Hi Elizabeth weighing in.

First Thanks Alton.

Does any one have the e mail addresses to these "letter to the  editors"? (I'm on a writing deadline and have been trying to stay  above the fray)
As someone who worked extremely had to get these incentives started, I  am sick of hearing that the film industry has to be stopped to "help  the state."
In the deepest recession that any of us have ever know, to stop  something that is strongly helping New Mexican's with careers and  salaries to stay alive is simply ridiculous.
Every time I see one of those headlines designed to get people to read  newspapers, I almost throw up.
Besides writing letters, what else can we do (?), and where does 235  stand at this moment,(?) or is this just one more scary politic moment  for our industry?
Another politician wishing to be in the spotlight? Geez guys, get a  life!
Elizabeth
On Feb 11, 2010, at 10:07 AM, Alton Walpole wrote:

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I sent the following letter to the editors of the Santa Fe New  Mexican & Albuquerque Journal today.....who knows if it will be  published.............


In simple terms, the burgeoning film production industry in New  Mexico did not cause the current budget problems for our state. In  fact, it has generated new revenue for local businesses and private  individuals. It has significantly increased our tax base. It has  created not only jobs, but careers.

There are other means to balance budgets; proper fiscal management  and dare I say increased tax on tobacco, liquor and high-fat foods.

The state incentives program for film production is an asset, not a  liability. Limiting or capping these incentives will destroy, not  diminish, this positive opportunity.

Alton Walpole
LETTER TO EDITOR
SANTA FE NEW MEXICAN & ALBUQUERQUE JOURNAL
February 11, 2010
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