Associated Press - November 17, 2009 8:55 AM ET

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) - Albuquerque Mayor-elect Richard Berry has appointed a former cabinet official under ex-Gov. Gary Johnson to head the city's economic development department.

Berry announced three appointments Monday as he prepares to take office Dec. 1.

John Garcia will become the city's director of economic development. Garcia served as a secretary of the state Economic Development Department and the state Department of Tourism under the Republican governor.

Bruce Rizzieri will head the city's Transit Department. Rizzieri served as the regional transit manager for the Mid-Region Council of Governments.

Tito Madrid, a former community outreach liaison for former Rep. Heather Wilson, will become the city's director of constituent services.

Berry beat incumbent Mayor Martin Chavez Oct. 6.

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