A significant concern is the absence of a local film incentive, with productions currently relying on state rebates. Texas’ Moving Image Industry Incentive Program, expanded last year, offers rebates of five to 25% depending on production costs.
In contrast, New Mexico’s state credit can reach up to 40%. Duarte warned, “If we do not have a city incentive that rivals or you, New Mexico or Las Cruces, we’re going to keep losing the production.”
The meeting highlighted a desire for more local opportunities, with one speaker declaring, “I’m not going to sit around and wait for Hollywood to come and hire me. I’m ready to work,” drawing applause from the crowd…