A.D. Ibarra

-Loma Bonita

A public forum was held on Tuesday where US Border Patrol officials were on hand along with Tom Schmerber, Maverick County Sheriff, Mexican Consulate Ricardo Santana, Constable Jose Regalado, Sergio Angulo, new Parks Director at the Nick Carr Sports Complex, Apolonio Rodriguez, Road and Bridge Director among others with new County Commissioner Robert Ruiz to allow citizens the opportunity to ask questions and/or voice concerns with a forum of experts there to answer their questions.

Ruiz gave credit to Enrique Ramos for the idea of coming out on this day to publicly address situations which are of major concern to the people who live in and around the area.

Mexican Consulate Santana stated, "I think this is an excellent idea in order to address the needs of the people which we represent," while reminding the gathering that he has proudly been in his position for the past five years.

He also mentioned that as we speak, there has been no major reform in migratory laws which concern his office, President Obama, however has implemented a viable program to address the needs of students aged 14-30 who wish to study at American colleges and universities which has been very successful and helpful to those who qualify.

Consul Santana also reminded those Mexican nationals in our country to file their income taxes and that his office can assist them free of charge to do so.

Commissioner Ruiz turned the microphone over to the public, many of whom voiced very serious concerns which were heard and noted by the panel.