New Mexico Hires Ombuds Despite Freeze

Records obtained by the Santa Fe New Mexican newspaper show that Governor Bill Richardson hired 16 people in the last three months despite a state-wide hiring freeze. Among the positions hired was the Ombuds for the Department of Transportation. The New Mexico DOT Ombuds provides confidential, neutral, and informal assistance for department employees and the general public. Although the newspaper article did not identify the Ombuds by name, it is believed to be Patricia Romero. (Santa Fe New Mexican.)