Chamber commemorates FLETC-Artesia's 20 years

Artesia Chamber of Commerce has proudly released a very special commemorative publication celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Artesia.  Click to see the entire magazine.

It was September 22, 1988 when President Ronald Reagan signed the bill allowing the purchase and renovation of an old college campus in Artesia to develop FLETC-Artesia.  But, it all started 26 years earlier when Mr. Howard Whitson, a local Artesia businessman pursued his dream to open College of Artesia.  Although the college failed, the ambitious dream was one meant to benefit Artesia and its citizens. The dedication of many citizens, the City of Artesia, and our elected officials, particularly Senator Pete Domenici and Congressman Joe Skeen, created the public-private partnership necessary to pursue another dream to attract the best to Artesia.

The partnership was true success.  We are proud in 2008 to be celebrating the 20th anniversary of FLETC-Artesia.  The commitment the federal government has made to Artesia and the growth of the FLETC-Artesia has had an immeasurable impact.  The economic factors speak for themselves-gross receipts and lodgers tax collections, job creation, and housing development, just to mention a few.  FLETC-Artesia has also introduced many new people and ideas to our community, providing us with new perspectives on business, community development, recreation, and culture.

Artesia says thank you to FLETC for the first 20 years of commitment to Artesia.  We look forward to many more years of working together for a successful Artesia.