Centinel Bank donates building and property to Questa Economic Development Fund

On November 21, 2011 Centinel Bank donated its building and property located near the intersection of NM 522 and HWY 38 in Questa to the Questa Economic Development Fund. The Fund’s Board of Trustees claim that the location is “ideal” to become a focal point for downtown Questa, utilizing the building for a Visitor’s Center and the Board’s offices. The surrounding property will contain a gazebo, new lighting and benches to provide for concerts, fairs, and farmer’s markets. Questa’s Mayor, Esther Garcia, sent a letter of support for the project to Centinel Bank CEO Rebeca Romero-Rainey stating that this project is “both an economic and beautification benefit to the Village… [which] lacks a formal plaza or town square to act as a gathering place.” Garcia goes on to state that the location is “ideal for a Visitor’s Center to distribute information on Questa and the Enchanted Circle.”

Centinel Bank announced intentions to donate the property to an organization that could leverage the building and surrounding property in a way to benefit the local community. The bank received five proposals from different organizations with great ideas for the building’s future. Centinel Bank CEO Rebeca Romero-Rainey commented “Centinel Bank remains committed to servicing the northern part of the county and promoting community development initiatives as we have for decades, and the donation of this facility and adjoining property to the Questa Economic Development Fund is a perfect way to continue those efforts. We look forward to seeing the wonderful plans for a Visitor’s Center and gazebo come to life!” In addition Romero-Rainey acknowledged and thanked the numerous families who had been instrumental in the original creation and establishment of the original branch building. They were: Arlene Martinez and Monica DesGeorges (daughters of George and Alicia Wisehart), Rudy and Cora Gallegos and Eliu and Elizabeth Romero.