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City of Albuquerque
ALBUQUERQUE – On Monday night, the City Council moved and passed a balanced City Budget, but not before amending it, to ensure further accountability and transparency.
The full Council’s consideration of the budget began with the Council Budget Staff's thorough examination of the Mayor's Administration organizational chart. The presentation identified several positions on the Mayor/CAO’s internal organizational chart not clearly delineated in the chain of command and funded from other departments. Council President Lewis’s amendment identified all these positions, reassigned them into the CAO’s office and then provided the funding for the positions by moving them from the various departments’ budgets to the CAO office budget.
The Chief Administrative Officer’s budget went from $3.1M to $6.6M, a $3.5M increase.
Attached is the amendment that passed unanimously by Council before passing the budget as a whole.
“This amendment brings accountability and transparency to the Mayor’s office,” Council President Lewis said. “By identifying staff who report directly to the CAO and Mayor, we can better work with them to do the business for all residents of Albuquerque.”
The $1.4 billion dollar FY 25 budget takes effect on July 1 and funds all the operations of the City of Albuquerque.
ALBUQUERQUE - The Albuquerque City Council passed a balanced $1.4B budget Monday evening, focusing on public safety, keeping fees low, and creating a new pilot program to focus on mental health.
The Council’s budget does not reduce APD, Community Safety or AFR, and adds a new EHD food inspector. The Council’s budget increases Library technology by $200k to a total of $400k which will enhance access to digital resources and educational tools. Council’s budget also adds $250k to the BioPark for food and $250k for food at the Animal Welfare Shelters.
“I’m proud of this budget, especially since the forecasts indicate a smaller than expected growth rate,” Councilor Klarissa Peña said. “We were able to expand social services, maintain our levels of public safety, and keep fee increases for our residents at a minimum.”
Councilors amended the budget (C/S R-24-36) to eliminate aquatics program fees, create a one dollar raise to municipal golf greens fees, and to build in accountability and transparency to City Administration and its functions.
The Council's Committee of the Whole Chairwoman Klarissa Peña also included funding to leverage local funds to match Federal Medicaid or Medicare resources for either the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) 1915(c) Waiver or the Medicaid 1115 Demonstration Waiver, creating a pilot program that offers wrap-around services for individuals with psychiatric and/or substance abuse disorders.
Peña commended the Council staff for their hard work in working together with the Mayor's staff to submit a budget that achieves the City's goals and objectives while maintaining fiscal responsibility and transparency for City residents.
Proposed Budget Maintains Key City Services & Programs Without Cuts or Rollbacks.
As rising costs for goods and services continue to impact families and businesses across Albuquerque, City Council will take up the Keller Administration’s proposed budget this week. In a time of rising inflation, local governments are facing tough choices, and Albuquerque is no different.
“Our community expects, and deserves, quality City services, programs and amenities,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “While other cities are cutting back, we’re ensuring that families don’t lose access to the public resources they count on.”
The proposed budget maintains a full scope of critical services for Albuquerque residents and businesses, including fighting crime, addressing housing and homelessness, behavioral health and addiction response, youth and family programs, quality of life improvements and vital basics like new and repaired roads, lighting, parks, community centers and libraries.
While the proposed budget shows an increase in expected revenue, the cost of providing expected services and amenities has also increased drastically. For instance, over the past five years, food costs have increased 44% and next year they are projected to increase another 20%. A January 2024 New Mexico Legislative Finance Committee report notes that national non-residential construction costs increased by 43% from January 2019 to October 2023.
“The City, like families and businesses, feels the impact of increased costs across the board,” said Chief Financial Officer Kevin Sourisseau. “Our City departments are being incredibly creative as they work to find efficiencies and streamline services so that we can continue to deliver for Albuquerque families.”
With dramatic increases in costs across the board came questions about how to best keep services stable. Since 2017, the Keller Administration has consistently prioritized access for families, residents, and businesses, keeping fees and entry costs to City amenities very low. With the new reality of inflation and increased cost of labor, City fees and prices are no longer in line with what it costs to actually provide those services. For example, fees for the Planning Department have not increased in 15 years, and the proposed adjustments will allow the department to add additional resources to expedite permitting in order to help the city develop in a sustainable way and address critical needs for services and housing. Fees for the BioPark haven’t increased in over 7 years, and very modest increases will help the team provide the best care for animals and keep up with the rising cost of running a world class facility.
Though some have zeroed in on modest increases in fees and ticket prices to criticize the proposed budget, these are not only in line or below regional comparisons, but still provide very high-value, low-cost public family entertainment, activities, and amenities during tough times. The proposed increases are long overdue and are necessary adjustments that will allow the City to maintain and improve the services and programs we offer.
As with any other budget year, funds from fees are directed to the General Fund, where they overwhelmingly support essential City services such as police, fire and rescue, senior support, municipal development, transit, youth and family services, behavioral health and addiction outreach and more.
Kevin Sourisseau will serve as CFO, building on previous work as COO and Associate CAO.
Today, Mayor Tim Keller announced that Kevin Sourisseau, a longtime public servant and City leader, will serve as the City’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Kevin served as the City’s Chief Operations Officer (COO) since 2022, and prior to that he was the Associate Chief Administrative Officer (ACAO) and Deputy Director of the Department of Municipal Development. The City has begun an executive search for a Chief Operations Officer.
“We are grateful for Kevin’s continued commitment to our city and the experience he brings to this role,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “I look forward to his leadership as we invest in our city to improve quality of life for families.”
“I’m happy to take on this new role with the same goal of helping our community and our City workforce thrive,” said Kevin Sourisseau, Chief Financial Officer. “Along with the great finance team that we have in place, we will continue to work on behalf of taxpayers to deliver results and investments that make a difference in Albuquerque.”
Prior to his work with the City of Albuquerque, Kevin worked for the New Mexico State Taxation and Revenue Department. Additionally, he worked in the State Auditor’s Office, serving as the Director of Special Investigations as well as the Chief Financial Administrator for the County’s Metropolitan Detention Center with Bernalillo County.
Kevin earned his Bachelor's of Business Administration from University of New Mexico in 1991 and became a Certified Public Accountant in 2000. In 2020, Kevin received the Outstanding Member in Government Award from the New Mexico Society of CPAs giving special recognition to Society members who have demonstrated outstanding service to professions in government.
Kevin is a proud naturalized American citizen and has lived in the greater Albuquerque area for 38 years. He enjoys competing in triathlons, being outdoors, as well as participating in a multitude of city supported functions alongside his wife and three children.
The City of Albuquerque’s Department of Finance and Administrative Services (DFAS) has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its annual comprehensive financial report for fiscal year 2022. The City received the Certificate of Achievement every year since 2013, which is the highest award given by GFOA for governmental accounting.
The City’s comprehensive financial report was recognized for meeting the high standards of GFOA, including demonstrating a "spirit of full disclosure" to accurately illustrate its financial story and encourage individuals and groups to read the report.
"Finance and Administrative Services continues to set the bar high, and GFOA has recognized the City of Albuquerque with this distinguished award once again,” said Chief Financial Officer Sanjay Bhakta. “We are committed to fiscal transparency, and our team continues to work diligently to create comprehensive and timely reports.”
The GFOA established the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting Program in 1945 to encourage state and local governments to go above the minimum requirements of accepted accounting principles. The GFOA recognizes governments that prepare annual comprehensive financial reports that are transparent and display full disclosure for their residents.
The City of Albuquerque also holds a ‘AAA’ rating from Standard & Poor’s (S&P)—the highest rating assigned by S&P Global Ratings, meaning the City’s capacity to meet its financial obligations is extremely strong.
Bhakta has served as CFO since the beginning of the Keller Administration, navigated through the pandemic and led teams to receive multiple national recognitions for government.
October 27, 2023
Mayor Tim Keller announced that Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Sanjay Bhakta will retire at the end of this year. Bhakta has served as CFO since the start of the administration, having been appointed by Mayor Keller in December 2017.
Prior to joining the City, Sanjay worked for New Mexico State Government for 13 years, serving in various capacities including Deputy State Auditor under then State Auditor Tim Keller for three years and ASD Director/CFO at the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration for three years.
Sanjay navigated the City through the unprecedented financial uncertainties of the pandemic, managing to support City employees and their families while continuing to invest in public safety and quality of life projects throughout Albuquerque. Under his leadership, the City moved to the self-insured model for health insurance coverage that has saved millions of dollars in the last five years, as well as opening the BetterHealth clinic in City Hall for employees and their families. Sanjay played a crucial role in advocating for the fair share of gross receipt tax pertaining to internet commerce that has resulted in millions of dollars of recurring revenues for the City. In addition, the City’s Department of Finance and Administrative Services under his leadership received multiple recognitions from the Government Finance Officers Association for excellence in governmental budgeting and financial reporting. The team sustained the City’s excellent bond ratings, even during the pandemic, and have implemented innovative strategies that provide stability for volatile costs.
“Sanjay has been a reliable and powerful presence leading our city since the beginning. He’s shared his expertise and been a creative problem solver through some of our city’s most difficult times. With his leadership and extraordinary ability to hire the best talent, we’ve been able to protect jobs for Albuquerque families and make historic investments to help address some of our toughest challenges,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “On top of it all, he consistently delivered on the fundamentals, increasing our city’s bond rating, improving our audits and balancing the budget every single year. We’re grateful for his work and for the standards he’s set for the entire finance team at the City.”
“Together, we’ve been able to put Albuquerque families first and make responsible investments where they are most needed. I’m thankful for the hardworking team that continues to manage taxpayer money in a responsible and transparent manner. It has been a privilege to serve the City” said Sanjay Bhakta.
This evening, the Albuquerque City Council unanimously confirmed Mayor Tim Keller’s appointment of long-time CNM Vice President, Dr. Samantha Sengel, to serve as the City’s new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). Dr. Sengel will now begin transitioning into the role held by Lawrence Rael, who will be retiring in November.
Dr. Sengel is a proven leader in creating community success through innovation and economic development. Prior to her appointment, she gained over two decades of experience in management and executive leadership during her 22 years at Central New Mexico Community College (CNM). Her well-established working relationships with leaders across all branches of local government will prove valuable assists for the City in fulfilling its priorities.
"Dr. Sengel has the necessary skills to transition her decades of deep concern for educating our workforce into full dedication for all we need to do to help our city,” saidMayor Keller. “Her qualifications and experience are a tremendous compliment to the City’s leadership team, for collaborating with stakeholders, and for lifting up all things Albuquerque.”
“I look forward to working alongside all of our dedicated City employees and continue my focus on helping shape Albuquerque as an ideal place for families and individuals to thrive,” said Dr. Samantha Sengel. “This has been my life’s work for a quarter century, and I am pleased to continue that mission with my new team.”
In addition to being responsible for day-to-day operations, the City of Albuquerque’s CAO has formal control in the charter and oversees nearly 6,000 employees. With authority over $1 billion in annual spending, the role is considered one of the most impactful non-elected positions in our state’s government
The City of Albuquerque is focused on combatting crime, curbing homeless, and creating economic opportunities for residents. While we are addressing our core challenges, we will not stop promoting quality of life amenities and attractions for families. The City intends to lease 7 of the 365 acres of Balloon Fiesta Park to New Mexico United so they can build a multi-purpose stadium in Albuquerque. No City funding will be used to build the stadium, and United would be required to invest a minimum of $30 million into the site.
"Albuquerque families deserve world-class amenities, and we won't give up on projects like a stadium that fulfill these quality-of-life needs," said Mayor Tim Keller. "Leasing underutilized land at Balloon Fiesta Park not only helps United grow, but also enriches one of our most frequented areas and provides new economic opportunities–a significant win for our city and a potential game-changer for our community."
New Mexico United would not be allowed to host games at the stadium during the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. The site identified in the lease would not interfere with ballooning in the rest of the park. New Mexico United will pay for the construction of the stadium. The State has provided capital to the City of Albuquerque for infrastructure improvements that will provide needed upgrades at Balloon Fiesta Park.
In addition to the annual fee for rent, New Mexico United would pay the City a percentage of parking revenue. The lease term is 30 years, with options to extend the lease two 15-year terms. The lease requires approval by Albuquerque City Council and is being introduced on Monday, October 2, 2023.
Other projects the City of Albuquerque is advancing include the Rail Trail, North Domingo Baca Aquatics Center, Rail Yards and New Mexico Media Academy, UNM TIDD, and the Downtown Business Improvement District.
Today, Mayor Tim Keller announced the appointment of Veronica Martinez to the key position of Chief of Staff for the City of Albuquerque. In this role, Martinez will manage and direct the day-to-day operations of the Office of Mayor, supervising a number of areas including public affairs, constituent services, communications, intergovernmental relations, strategic initiatives, community engagement, and administrative functions.
Martinez is a seasoned leader with over 20 years of experience in government, management, sales, technology, and operations who brings a wealth of expertise to the Chief of Staff position. Her career has been marked by a consistent successful record, from management of global and national teams to spearheading the startup of the first dedicated Acquisition Team at HP Corporate and Commercial sales, resulting in over $500 million in revenue and over $1 billion in total contract value. She excels in strategic planning, finding solutions to complex issues, and partner engagement. Her current position as Sales Acceleration Lead for Global Software Sales and other key roles has equipped Veronica with the skills to navigate complex challenges, deliver results, and foster collaboration, which make her a valuable asset to Albuquerque and its residents.
Veronica also brings a vast background in public policy to this role through her previous congressional work and volunteer support with local unions. Veronica has also demonstrated a commitment and social responsibility to the Albuquerque community through extensive volunteer and fundraising efforts. As the Executive Director and Head Coach of New Mexico Sol, a non-profit USA Track & Field-affiliated running club, she provided leadership and athletic training to youth athletes from underserved communities and she also led various fundraising initiatives to support scholarships, address the needs of underserved communities, and other individuals in need. Veronica was nominated and formally recognized by FBI Director Christopher Wray for extraordinary service to her community during the Director’s Community Leadership Awards ceremony at FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C. Veronica is a current, active board member of the New Mexico Activities Association Foundation, where she continues to be involved in the lives of young New Mexicans by providing scholarships for secondary education.
Veronica Martinez is a native Northern New Mexican where her rich Hispanic heritage and New Mexican roots extend to the 1400’s and beyond. She has resided in the Albuquerque area for over 30 years with her husband of 24 years, a retired Santa Fe Fire Department Battalion Chief, and four children who have attended New Mexico public schools.
ALBUQUERQUE – Today, ABQ RIDE was joined by New Mexico Senators Martin Heinrich and Ben Ray Lujan, White House Senior Advisor and Infrastructure Coordinator Mitch Landreiu, and Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller to announce the department’s award of $25 million through the RAISE Grant to fund the Uptown Connect: The Uptown Transit Center Joint Development. In addition, ABQ RIDE also received $18.2 million through the Low or No (Low-No) Emission Vehicle Program to purchase 20 electric buses and charging equipment. These awards, totaling over $43.2 million, were funded by the Biden Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
“It was an honor to join White House Senior Advisor Mitch Landieu, Senator Heinrich, and Mayor Keller to highlight $25 million for public transit in Albuquerque,” said Senator Ben Ray Lujan. “These funds will help improve public safety and ensure that our roads are safe for all New Mexicans.”
RAISE Grant funding for The Uptown Transit Center Joint Development will allow the City to rebuild, modernize, and transform the existing Uptown Transit Center into an area where people can live, work, and play with direct access to the ART. Once complete, the redevelopment project will create over 400 affordable & market-rate housing units across two towers, entertainment and retail space, and improve access to public transportation.
“President Biden’s Investing in America agenda is helping communities in New Mexico access opportunity, health care, and education,” said Senior Advisor to the President and White House Infrastructure Coordinator Mitch Landrieu. “This $25 million RAISE grant for Albuquerque's Bus Transit Center will improve safety, reduce traffic by getting cars off the road, and cut emissions—all while creating good-paying jobs. I have no doubt it will benefit the people of Albuquerque for years to come."
“In Albuquerque, we recognize the importance of combating climate change and fostering a solid, sustainable future for our community,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “These grants are a game changer in advancing our ongoing commitment to building a sustainable future for our city. We appreciate the support of our federal delegation in helping secure funding for this historic investment.”
Due to the nature of the project, Uptown Connect will contribute to the Biden Administration’s Justice 40 Initiative, investing in a Historically Disadvantaged Community by improving access, mobility, economic development, sustainability, and safety.
The additional $18.2 million funded by the Low or No Emission Vehicle Program will go towards the purchase 20 electric buses, expected to arrive within the next three years. The vehicles will be added to the 5 existing electric buses the City received through a similar grant in 2019. The funding will also help purchase and install in-route chargers at the Alvarado and Central/Unser Transit stations as well as at the main bus depot.
A greater number of electric fleet being operated by the City of Albuquerque will not only increase the sustainability of public transportation but also help improve service and reliability, address air quality and noise pollution, and improve access to essential services for disadvantaged communities.
“The awards received by ABQ RIDE are a testament to the resilience and hard work our team puts in each and every day to make the transit system in Albuquerque the best it can be for its residents”, said Transit Director Leslie Keener. “The additional electric buses and redevelopment of the Uptown Transit Center funded by these federal grants are a huge step as the department continues its efforts to reimagine the efficiency and effectiveness of public transportation.”
Today, Mayor Keller and City leaders celebrated the groundbreaking of a new multigenerational center to be located at Santa Barbara-Martineztown Park.
This comes after the City announced plans for the new multigenerational center back in April. The project will cost $4 million and doors are expected to open in early 2024.
“Our investments into Albuquerque’s multigenerational centers continue to improve quality of life for residents all across our city, said Mayor Tim Keller. "This new center in Santa Barbara-Martineztown will serve as a joyful gathering place for the community who will now enjoy access quality amenities at a fun, safe facility in the heart of the city.”
The new 5,000 square-foot multigenerational center will feature services for both youth and seniors including senior meals, out-of-school programs, a computer lab, and meeting space.
“Our goal is to create space that brings the entire community together,” said Director of Senior Affairs Anna Sanchez. “We are so proud to finally get this project started and be able to provide this wonderful resource to the Santa Barbara-Martineztown neighborhood.”
While the center will be located at the site of the Santa Barbara-Martineztown Park, site plans call to preserve the park’s green space, baseball fields, and historic mural.
Today, Mayor Tim Keller delivered his fifth State of the City address at a community event hosted at the Albuquerque Rail Yards. The gathering brought over 1,000 people together to explore City and community efforts on a range of fronts including public safety, housing and homelessness solutions, programs for youth and families, downtown revitalization, equity and inclusion, economic development, and sustainability. Watch the full speech.
Mayor Keller’s speech was interspersed with stories from people across Albuquerque who have experienced diverse struggles and successes, turning the spotlight on everyday members of the community who are helping shape the future of our city. This year’s remarks were centered around “the power of us,” acknowledging the common values and grit that bond us as Burqueños even as we navigate big challenges and work to build a better future.
Doubling Down on Public Safety that Works for Albuquerque
Taking Real Steps to Address Housing and Homelessness
Improving Quality of Life for People Across our City
Honoring the Stories of Real Albuquerque People
*new announcement or initiative coming this year
Quotes from the Remarks:
Taking action to address gun violence in our city. “We are facing the deadliest wave of gun violence in history, and it’s our kids who are paying the highest price. While the state and DC should do more to confront this national epidemic, we can’t wait. And we won’t. This summer, we’re cracking down on guns. We are triangulating existing restrictions around schools to aggressively prosecute any crime with gun anywhere in downtown. Commit a crime with a gun, any crime, we will pursue federal gun charges to get you OFF our streets. We can’t afford to do anything less.”
Investing in crime fighting tools for our officers. “Our investment in modern camera systems, license plate readers and gun-detection technology is driving investigations. That’s how we catch criminals.”
Addressing the housing at all levels. “The story of Albuquerque includes a housing crisis that must addressed. It can be measured not just by the number of unhoused people on the streets, but by a shortage of as many as 30,000 housing units for our fellow residents. We can only meet this demand by building faster and smarter, and by updating outdated and restrictive zoning regulations. It’s time to move Housing Forward and make way for best practices and innovative ideas - like supporting casitas for grandparents and our ‘adult kids’. It’s time to convert run down hotels into housing, and we’re getting started. In fact, our first hotel conversion is under construction right now, with over 100 new apartments coming online.”
Building the Gateway Center, the first facility of its kind in the region. “The Gateway is a comprehensive resource hub that is all about connecting folks to help. It’s about walking with people on their journey to housing and getting them the resources they need; whether it’s help with addiction, a safe place to stay while recovering from surgery, or simply a warm bed to get off the street. Once all phases are complete, the Gateway will be a place of hope, healing and housing that serves over 1,000 people a day.”
Enforcing measures to keep our streets safe. “We clean up hundreds of encampments each month and continue to do everything we can to get people the help they need, but the status quo is just not working. We must ramp up enforcement and make our streets safe. This summer, we are enforcing median safety measures on our most dangerous roads to protect both pedestrians and drivers. ”
Making important investments in quality of life. “Over the next few years, we are nearly doubling the number of dog parks in Albuquerque. We’re expanding pickleball and aquatics facilities, and adding dozens of water fountains and play equipment at our parks. The new Los Altos Softball complex will be open and ready for action this summer. These are the connection points to keep families engaged and enjoying our beautiful city.”
Reflecting on the challenges, the future, and the promise of Albuquerque. “We know that homelessness and crime are afflicting cities across the country, and creating hardship right here at home. But unlike most cities around us who are over extended, being swallowed by their problems—our story is still in progress. We are an unfinished canvas; our story is still alive, and it holds the promise of a brighter future for ourselves, our children and their children’s children.”
Continuing his tradition, the Mayor walked out to some Heavy Metal (#metalmayor), “Prey” by Parkway Drive, a band he introduced on stage, and ended with “Outro” by local hip-hop legend Wake Self.
The address will be airing on local stations at the following times:
$200,000,000 to support public safety, housing and needed infrastructure in Albuquerque.
Today, Mayor Tim Keller signed the 2023 two-year General Obligation (GO) Bond Capital Budget and the Decade Plan for Capital Improvements. The GO Bond package will help the City of Albuquerque prioritizes projects that support public safety, housing, and improved quality of life.
The GO bond package will be on the general election ballot this fall. Projects will be enacted after the bond issues are submitted to and approved by voters. As such, the program totals and project budgets are submitted to the City Council as a planning program.
"By investing in public safety, housing and projects that boost quality of life, we can build a stronger, safer Albuquerque," said Mayor Tim Keller. "The GO Bond package will help us address some of our most pressing needs while also creating jobs and stimulating economic growth."
The 2023 plan includes a two-year capital budget, as well as planning elements for four, six, eight, and 10 years. The plan outlines requirements for project scope, schedule, budget, justification, and alternatives. The GO Bond package includes a range of projects that address infrastructure needs and quality of life issues in the city.
The City’s three public safety departments will receive a total of $21,340,000 to improve and expand facilities.
The package includes $12,500,000 to go toward building more affordable housing throughout Albuquerque and renovations at the Gateway Center to provide resources, hope and healing for unsheltered people on their path to housing.
The Department of Municipal Development (DMD) will receive a total of $57,950,000 for various street and hydrology projects, including the reconstruction of intersections and ADA sidewalk improvements.
The Parks and Recreation department will receive $21,950,000 for projects such as park, playground, and pool renovations and open space facility improvements. $10,900,00 will go toward cultural facilities and museums like the Albuquerque Museum education center.
Funding prioritizes public safety, homelessness and housing, and pay equity.
Today, Mayor Tim Keller submitted a proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2024. The $1.4 billion budget reflects the administration’s ongoing commitment to public safety. It also focuses on addressing housing and homelessness crises effectively and creatively, and resolving a long-standing pay equity gap for City employees.
“Our focus on reaching public safety goals hasn’t wavered, and we will continue to prioritize the programs and services that get at the root causes of our city’s challenges,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “We’re doubling down on investments that will move the needle on crime, homelessness, and housing, while continuing to support our city workforce and correct historic pay inequity.”
To balance the budget, Fiscal Year 2024 recurring expenses were reduced by prudent decreases from savings in unfilled vacant positions and operations.
“The budget continues to make important investments where they are needed, but takes a conservative approach, accounting responsibly for a potential economic recession,” said Stephanie Yara, Director, Department of Finance and Administrative Services.
“We continue to work to balance strategic funding of key programs and fiscal responsibility,” said Sanjay Bhakta, Chief Financial Officer, City of Albuquerque. “Using this approach, we can manage our way through uncertain times and still continue to invest in progress for our communities.”
Key investments in this year’s budget include:
Advancing Public Safety
Public safety is a top priority for the Keller Administration, and historic investments have proven effective, with Albuquerque making significant progress on violent crime and property crime in the past year. Despite that progress, the city still struggles with homicides related to gun violence and the fentanyl epidemic. Targeted investments aim to further support the police department while building out a robust system of services to help prevent and reduce crime.
Homelessness, Housing, and Behavioral Health
Addressing homelessness, additional housing, and behavioral health challenges in our City means taking a comprehensive approach to the root causes such as substance abuse, mental health, domestic violence, and youth opportunity. The Fiscal Year 2024 budget includes:
Resolving Historic Pay Equity Gap, Minimum Wage and Keeping up with Cost of Living
Other Key Investments in Jobs, Sustainability, and Quality of Life
ALBUQUERQUE –The Parks and Recreation Department (PRD) made major progress and accomplished important milestones in 2022. Most notably, Albuquerque’s park system was ranked 34th out of the 100 largest American cities in the ParkScore Index, moving up three positions from 2021. The ParkScore Index is issued annually by the Trust for Public Land and evaluates local park systems based on 14 measures across five categories: access, investment, amenities, acreage and equity.
The city continued to score high in several categories, including “Acreage” and “Access.” Albuquerque has one of the highest scores in the entire country for percentage of the City’s overall area dedicated to parkland (29%) and 91% of the Albuquerque population lives within a 10-minute walk of a park. Albuquerque’s 2022 park “Investment” score also doubled from 2021. Albuquerque’s park system is ranked higher than other cities in the region such as Austin (40th), Dallas (53rd), Colorado Springs (58th), Tucson (72nd), and Phoenix (84th).
“Great parks make great cities,” said Parks and Recreation Director Dave Simon. “But it’s not just about a score—it’s about recognizing and increasing the tremendous community benefits we get from parks.”
To continue to make park access more equitable for residents, PRD has been prioritizing improvements to parks in low-income and diverse neighborhoods, including projects at Los Altos, Wilson, Barelas, Daniel Webster, Phil Chacon, and Bullhead parks, as well as creating new “Neighborhood Open Space” programs to increase access to nature-based programs. The entire ParkScore ranking can be found here.
In addition to the improvements in Albuquerque’s 2022 ParkScore, PRD also highlighted some major accomplishments in parks, trails, and open space programs in 2022, including:
The City of Albuquerque is announcing a $95 million Industrial Revenue Bond to assist in the creation of what will be one of New Mexico’s first stand-alone battery energy storage system (BESS), a piece of advanced energy infrastructure that is necessary as New Mexico progresses towards a 100% emissions-free future for electricity production.
The “Sandia Peak Grid” BESS project is a utility-scale electric storage facility that provides flexible, emissions-free capacity and ancillary services to support a decarbonizing New Mexico electric system while maintaining reliable and low-cost electric service to Albuquerque homes and businesses. The facility stores energy, including energy generated by renewables like solar and wind, to then use when consumers need it, keeping energy flowing and prices down. By managing the supply of stored energy in the grid, this is an important technology enabling the growth for the city’s renewable energy sector.
“It is vital that we invest in infrastructure that supports our growing economy and continues to set Albuquerque apart as a leader in next-generation clean energy production,” said Terry Brunner, Acting Director of Economic Development Department.
Mayor Keller signed legislation issuing the industrial revenue bond to assist with the purchase and improvement of an existing vacant site to create the BESS near the PNM Reeves Generating Station. The parent company of the Sandia Peak Grid project, Eolian, L.P. (Eolian), brings nearly 20 years of experience in developing and operating clean energy projects across the country.
“We are continuing our investments in a resilient, modern energy grid for consumers today and for generations of Burqueños to come who will live in a New Mexico powered by renewable energy,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Once operating, this stand-alone battery storage system will be the next step forward, facilitating growth in the renewable energy industry and paving the way for a carbon-free future.”
“Since development of the project began in 2020, the Eolian team has been engaged with the community and elected officials to ensure that this investment will have a positive impact on the city,” said Eolian CEO Aaron Zubaty. “This location was chosen years ago because of its ability to provide modern, fast-responding, and pollution-free reliability and grid-balancing solutions directly in the heart of PNM’s largest load zone, adjacent to a gas-fired power plant. We are excited to see this major milestone completed with the support and partnership of the City of Albuquerque.”
The project is estimated to create between 60 and 100 primarily local jobs during the construction of the facility and produce a positive fiscal impact for the City over the term of the bonds.
ALBUQUERQUE – Today, Albuquerque announced a 7-step “Downtown Forward” plan, highlighting increased safety measures, activating street-level vitality, and launching projects that will attract economic investment and private partnership in the downtown core.
These catalytic projects will be the driving force behind a thriving downtown,” said Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency (MRA) director, Terry Brunner. “They are aimed to open up doors for creative innovators and private investment.”
Public safety and crime reduction are key to revitalizing the area. Already the new Downtown Public Safety Center at Central and Fourth Street is open; a visible, street level police presence will be prominent during work and entertainment hours; and APD’s Downtown TEAM (Targeted Enforcement and Active Monitoring) reallocates resources to the downtown area.
“Downtown Albuquerque is the economic and cultural heartbeat of the state and we need the fundamentals in place for it to succeed,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “A safe downtown creates a safe Albuquerque. A vibrant downtown will ignite a vibrant New Mexico. Creating a healthy urban center benefits us all.”
In addition to increased safety measures, downtown-focused projects are included in the plan’s funding. Albuquerque has earmarked $15 million for the Albuquerque Rail Trail which will increase bicycle and pedestrian connectivity to the Rail Yards, Alvarado Transit Center, Convention Center, Sawmill District and Old Town. An additional $10 million to the project has been earmarked by state funding, and $11.5 million has been awarded through the USDOT RAISE grant, bringing the current investment to $36.5 million.
The Downtown Forward Plan steps in to compliment the City’s ongoing initiatives on housing and homelessness. Housing Forward ABQ, which was just announced yesterday, aims to create 5,000 new units of housing by 2025. In downtown specifically, several housing projects are already in the pipeline and to further this growth, MRA has established incentive tools for housing and commercial projects investing in designated Redevelopment Areas.
The Gateway Center is another key component in the Downtown Forward initiative to safely relocate unhoused community members out of downtown and provide them with the resources they need.
“We appreciate the City’s commitment to running continuous shuttles from downtown to the Gateway Center where we will have safe 24/7 sheltering and well-coordinated, co-located resources for those who are homeless,” said Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, Terri Cole. “The pubic and private sector is exactly on the same page. That’s what it takes to get the job done and we intend to get the job done.”
A full copy of the Downtown Forward Plan can be found here.
Today the City of Albuquerque released its first Climate Action Implementation Report (CAIR). The CAIR highlights implementation efforts following the strong calls to action from Albuquerque’s frontline communities captured in the 2021 Climate Action Plan (CAP). The 2021 CAP highlighted the importance of changing systems and investing in opportunities to protect communities already vulnerable to climate change and to create access for all residents to receive the benefits of climate action.
The CAIR summarizes progress over the past year on strategies across all CAP themes: sustainable buildings, renewable energy, clean transportation, recycling and waste, economic development, and climate conscious neighborhoods and resources. The new report presents a clear picture of recent progress as well as showcasing focused, actionable pathways to fulfilling a vision of a more sustainable and equitable Albuquerque.
“This report shows the City’s commitment to keeping the public informed on the range of projects and initiatives that stem from the 2021 Climate Action Plan,” said Sustainability Officer Kelsey Rader. “As we continue to move forward with implementation, the City will continue to engage residents to refine efforts to improve our health, economic stability, and quality of life in the coming years.”
Following the CAIR’s release, the Sustainability Office will continue to engage across City departments, utilities, community organizations and others to amplify mobilization and communication implementation. To further involve the public, the Sustainability Office will host quarterly community engagement sessions, with the first meeting on September 28th. Each meeting will center around a climate-related topic or project, and residents will be asked to provide input that will be used to inform current and future initiatives. The Office will also complete yearly, follow-up reporting through updated versions of the CAIR.
“The reality of climate change threatens our communities and generations of Burqueños to come, and it is our responsibility to take bold action,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Our first Climate Action Implementation Report captures the critical work that the City and our community are doing to build resiliency, to address this crisis, and become a leading sustainable city.”
View the full report here.
The CAIR builds on the Keller administration’s substantial work to date on sustainability, including:
Mayor Tim Keller delivered his regular State of the City address today to nearly 1,000 people at a community event hosted at the Albuquerque Rail Yards. The gathering brought people together to explore City and community efforts on a range of fronts including public safety, programs for youth and families, downtown revitalization, housing and homelessness solutions, equity and inclusion, economic development, and sustainability.
In his remarks, Mayor Keller reflected on Albuquerque’s response to deep challenges and spoke of doubling down on work to move the city toward a brighter horizon:
“The real state of the city is a city holding the line, during some of our most difficult times. A city that has not, and will not, stop advancing toward a horizon that brings out the best in Burque. On our horizon is a city that is growing, and that has more opportunities for our children each year, a city that is safe, and sustainable. We’ve got that unmistakable Albuquerque scrappiness that comes out when it’s needed – we get creative and we figure things out, and I know we can bring the horizon right here to the Duke City.”
View the 2022 State of the City address.
Mayor Keller acknowledged the shadow that crime casts over Albuquerque, and focused on key changes the City is pursuing for a safer city for all. The first is the City-led Metro Crime Initiative, which convenes leaders from all levels of government, the criminal justice system, and the community to break down silos and fix broken pieces at levels of the system that have hindered public safety. The second is the decision to take new agency in the DOJ Reform process. Mayor Keller announced that because of recent progress, with the latest monitor report nearing full compliance, the administration reached an agreement with the DOJ to suspend monitoring for a quarter of the settlement agreement. This step allows officers to work toward remaining reform goals while being better able to focus on addressing crime.
To help with limited police and fire resources, the Albuquerque Community Safety Department is now taking calls and responding to non-violent situations throughout the city, many of which are related to the city’s ongoing challenge with homelessness. Homelessness has grown nationally by 30% in recent years and requires local answers that provide a compassionate, effective response. Mayor Keller noted that the City legally clears dozens of encampments each week, and that the City will hold the line and enforce laws when there are real safety issues, and at places our kids use, like community centers, pools and parks with programing. The City also must create places where people can go, so they don’t just move down the road. This includes converting old hotels into apartments and continuing the historic investments in affordable housing.
“We have an obligation to extend compassion to people in our community who need help finding their way out of dark places. We have to do better than leaving people on the streets or in a dangerous park. We will enforce our laws when there is a real safety issue, and when it affects spaces our kids use. We will hold the line and promptly clear encampments in those situations, and we will also create places for people to go. There isn’t one simple answer, this requires an ‘all of the above’ approach, and we have to be open trying new approaches that create pathways to stability. Give us approval to clear Coronado park and a create a place for folks to go. Give us zoning approval for the Gateway Center and every idea in between.”
While focused on building bridges out of homelessness, the City is making sure that there are opportunities on the other side. With masthead companies in the metro announcing expansions, and Small and Minority Business Offices supporting local entrepreneurs, Albuquerque is experiencing and poised to continue sustainable economic growth. New innovators are looking to make Albuquerque home, with potential transformative investments like the Space Valley Center and Universal Hydrogen. With an eye toward the future, the City is creating pipelines for future generations into skilled positions with the coming roll out of Albuquerque’s Youth Workforce Investment Program. Along with investments in opportunities for youth and families, the City is pursuing bold sustainability goals to keep Albuquerque welcoming for generations to come.
This past year, in partnership with Jicarilla Apache Nation, Repsol, and PNM, the City opened the third largest solar array on Native American land across 500 acres. With this and 38 other solar projects on City buildings, 88 percent of Albuquerque’s government is powered by clean energy.
“This could be the most important legacy we leave for our children: the action we take to confront the realities of climate change. The work ahead of us is urgent, and we are not waiting for anyone else to lead the way.”
Moving Albuquerque closer to its bright horizon requires doubling down on priorities and investing in a strong core that powers a healthy city. The City has created a working roadmap to a vibrant downtown that honors history and guides the city forward. To kickstart collaboration that will make downtown a safer place, the City rolled out Downtown TEAM (Targeted Enforcement and Active Monitoring), a public private partnership that will add police presence to support businesses downtown. Further developments, like the Rail Trail, aim to connect historic neighborhoods and create a safe, pleasant way to travel along the train tracks between downtown amenities.
In closing, Mayor Keller encouraged people to get involved in the effort to help Albuquerque reach the horizon ahead.
“Every accomplishment we’ve made, every challenge we work to overcome, it takes a team. As we part today, we know we are coming from the depths of the pandemic, we are dusting ourselves off and lifting our heads up to look toward our city’s horizon again. We’re asking you to put your talents to work for the city you love, and visit ChooseOne.us to see where the City is hiring. We will be right there with you as we work together to bring Albuquerque to the bright horizon that we know is ahead,” said Mayor Tim Keller.
As has been his tradition, the Mayor incorporated some deep cuts from his unique music tastes into the speech. This year featured ‘Dance of the Ixtab’ by Carcass and ‘Permanent’ by Knocked Loose.
Today, the Keller Administration’s proposal to invest the second round of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds passed City Council in a unanimous vote with amendments.
The lion’s share of the Administration’s proposal for the nearly $50 million in infrastructure funds was directed to solutions for homelessness, one of the city’s most pressing needs. Significant funding in the bill is also set for public safety projects including improvements at APD’s training academy and main headquarters, and the build out of a hub for the Albuquerque Community Safety Department at San Mateo and Kathryn. Allocations were also made to improve and construct community assets like Phil Chacon Park, Isotopes Park, and the International District Library Park among others.
“We’re putting this major recovery investment to work for Albuquerque, building community recreation space, getting to work on long-needed public safety facility improvements, and critically, building the spaces that are essential to our strategy to address homelessness,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Since the start of pandemic, cities across America have seen a tragic and rapid rise in homelessness, and it affects everyone in our city. We can’t just wring our hands over this challenge, we have to press forward and build the spaces that will provide the shelter and support people need to find stable housing and get off the street.”
These investments build on major funding recently passed through the operating budget and GRT funding bills including an $15 million to help those most in need afford rent with housing vouchers and an additional $20 million for affordable housing across the city.
“This is a step forward in our work to address homelessness and we need all our partners across government with us taking an all-of-the-above approach to this work,” said Interim CAO Lawrence Rael. “The roughly $25 million in ARPA funds directed to the Gibson Health Hub and homelessness, not only helps build out the Gateway shelter space, but also medical and sobering facilities, a youth shelter, improvements to the West Side Emergency Housing Center, and an extension of the successful Wellness Hotel model which has provided safe shelter to families and children and helped hundreds transition into permanent housing.”
The final bill passed in City Council adhered closely to the administration’s proposal, and amendments made tonight will be reviewed by the administration.
City Councilor Brook Bassan proudly announces that at last night’s meeting, the Albuquerque City Council unanimously approved legislation to sell Gross Receipt Tax (GRT) Improvement Revenue Bonds and R-22-34, to appropriate $100,000,000, for which she was the lead co-sponsor in quality of life and infrastructure projects that will improve the lives of the Citizens of Albuquerque and continue to further the development of Albuquerque as a wonderful place to live and raise our families.
City Councilor Brook Bassan, who has championed this legislation for numerous years, stated, “This bill is the culmination of years of hard work by many people, including my co-sponsors, Councilors Isaac Benton and Dan Lewis. This will construct projects throughout the City to provide recreational opportunities for our residents and create a complex of regional sports facilities for swimming, BMX, indoor court games, shooting tournaments, and pickleball that will attract tournaments from throughout the Southwest and the Rocky Mountains regions. Hosting regional competitions will be a boost to the City’s economy. It will help fund critically needed housing and public safety services necessary for a resilient and stable City.”
The $100,000,000 will create a suite of comprehensive improvements across the City, including:
The City Council approved O-22-25 to authorize the selling of the GRT Bonds. The companion bill, R-22-34, approved the specific projects to be funded.
Councilor Bassan added, “I look forward to the improved quality of life these projects will bring for our children, our senior citizens, and the taxpayers who work so hard every day to build a great community.”
Funding prioritizes public safety, quality of life, and economic opportunity
Today, Mayor Tim Keller signed the budget for Fiscal Year 2023. The $1.4 billion budget includes no tax increases and focuses on fully funding public safety departments and programs, quality of life improvements and opportunities for working families, and continued economic invigoration.
“Our city is moving in the right direction on multiple fronts and this budget will help keep the momentum going by creating safer streets, providing more resources to vulnerable communities and bringing more opportunities to our workforce,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “The priorities of our residents are reflected in the pages of this document and the investments we are making to drive forward on our toughest challenges and pave the way to a better, stronger Albuquerque continue into the new fiscal year today.”
This year, the budget includes a significant increase in one-time non-recurring money thanks to prudent financial management during the pandemic and higher than estimated revenues in FY’22.
This budget included smart investments in priority areas for this one-time money, but it cannot be used for hiring or ongoing projects like the budget’s recurring funds can.
“It’s great to be here at the finish line of this collaborative effort,” said Councilor Brook Bassan. “I think we achieved a balanced result of the Mayor’s priorities and the priorities of each of our districts. A lot of people worked hard to help us get here, for which we’re very thankful.”
Key investments in this year’s budget include:
Advancing Public Safety
Public safety is a top priority of the Keller Administration. Targeted funding aims to support not only law enforcement goals, but build a comprehensive, community-based approach to preventing and reducing crime.
Addressing Homelessness
Supporting and Diversifying the Economy
Workforce Support through Youth Programs
Pursuing Sustainability Goals
ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the Keller Administration announced that it is taking the first steps to bring all City of Albuquerque employees up to at least a $15 per hour wage. Ensuring better pay for entry level positions is critical to the City’s effort to retain and attract the staff who deliver key services throughout Albuquerque. The $15 wage will apply to all regular, seasonal, and part-time employees of the City, with the likely exemption of contract temporary employees.
“City staff keeps Albuquerque running, plain and simple. It’s our responsibility to make sure we’re taking necessary measures to support our workforce and set people up for success,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “We’ve raised wages for City employees throughout my administration, and this next step is vital for long term recruitment and retention of employees across departments.”
“We’re continuing to do what’s needed to support our workforce and also make sure that the City can fill critical roles as governments and businesses nationwide face staffing challenges,” said Patricia Tafoya-Harris, Deputy Director of Human Resources. “We want to make sure that the City of Albuquerque stays competitive and that the community knows this is a great place to start a career.”
“We’ve made fiscal responsibility a priority over the years so that we can make important investments that will help the City operate at its best,” said Lawrence Davis, Budget Officer. “Because of this approach, we’re able to take these initial first steps to make sure our workforce is healthy.”
As part of a series of next steps, the city is conducting a compensation study, as called for in this year’s budget, which will then guide wage adjustments for City positions. Additional consideration is also being researched regarding issues of wage compression and collective bargaining agreements. Wage changes will be expected to phase in beginning in FY 2023.
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This implementation will only affect City government employees. Wages for private businesses in Albuquerque are set by a city ordinance that tracks the consumer price index, unless the current state minimum wage is higher. Today, the minimum wage in Albuquerque is $11.50 per hour, which is the current state minimum wage.
The City of Albuquerque’s Department of Finance and Administrative Services (DFAS) has been awarded the Government Finance Officers Association’s (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. This is the third time in six months that the GFOA has recognized DFAS for their accomplishments in reporting and budgeting.
“The finance team in City Hall is setting the bar high for fiscal responsibility and transparency in city government,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Their hard work has resulted in a City—and city services—that did not shut down due to the pandemic, and they continue to adeptly manage taxpayer dollars so we can make investments in our City’s recovery and community priorities.”
According to the GFOA, the Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management. The City’s annual report for fiscal year 2020 was judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, which includes demonstrating a constructive "spirit of full disclosure" to clearly communicate its financial story, and motivate users to read the report.
"We are pleased the GFOA has recognized the City of Albuquerque with another distinguished award,” said Chief Financial Officer Sanjay Bhakta. “We understand and appreciate the importance of fiscal transparency, and once again our staff, under the leadership of City Controller Donna Sandoval, has worked diligently to complete accessible and timely reports for the people of Albuquerque.”
In addition to the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, the GFOA also recognized DFAS with a Distinguished Budget Presentation award twice in 2021. The City of Albuquerque also holds a ‘AAA’ rating from Standard & Poor’s (S&P)—the highest rating assigned by S&P Global Ratings, meaning the City’s capacity to meet its financial obligations is extremely strong.
The GFOA established the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting Program in 1945 to encourage and assist state and local governments to go beyond the minimum requirements of generally accepted accounting principles. The GFOA recognizes individual governments that prepare annual comprehensive financial reports that evidence transparency and full disclosure.
The City of Albuquerque has earned an Aa3 general obligation (GO) and gross receipt tax (GRT) rating from Moody’s Investors Services—a positive outlook resulting from expert budget management, smart spending, and by satisfying financial criteria outlined by Moody’s. According to Nasdaq, obligations rated Aa3 are judged to be of high quality and are subject to very low credit risk.
“In spite of some of the toughest times in Albuquerque’s history, we are receiving high ratings for our work to protect and strengthen our city’s fiscal health,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “With solid financial decisions, we avoided furloughs during the pandemic, invested in infrastructure and economic development, and set a foundation that will benefit Burqueños for years to come.”
The Moody’s outlook for Albuquerque was revised from “negative,” jumping past “stable,” to now being ranked as “positive.” The jump to the positive reflects cost-cutting measures implemented by the City in fiscal year 2020, resulting in an improved financial position, as well as maintaining a structurally balanced operating budget. According to Moody’s, Albuquerque’s GRT, which comprises a large portion of the City's budget, is expected to remain stable due to ongoing economic development and providing strong debt service coverage on outstanding GRT bonds.
The City of Albuquerque was recently awarded the Government Finance Officers Association’s (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Presentation Award, and also holds a ‘AAA’ rating from Standard & Poor’s (S&P)—the highest rating assigned by S&P Global Ratings, meaning the City’s capacity to meet its financial obligations is extremely strong.
"Throughout the pandemic, we were able to reduce City spending and utilize federal stimulus funds in ways that best benefitted Albuquerque and its citizens,” said Chief Financial Officer Sanjay Bhakta. “Our innovative financial decisions have garnered national recognition and kept our financial posture strong.”
Moody’s affirmation of the Aa3 rating is based on Albuquerque's strong expenditure management, improved financial position after receipt of federal coronavirus relief coupled, manageable direct debt burden, and large tax base.
“We’re looking at a strong economic recovery in Albuquerque, evidenced by GRT growth when comparing 2021 to 2020 and 2019,” said Director of Finance & Administrative Services, Renée Martinez. “We’re pleased with this rating and are committed to making prudent fiscal decisions for the people of Albuquerque.”
The Aa3 GRT rating reflects the linkages between the General Obligation Unlimited Tax (GOULT) and GRT ratings, and the special tax revenue stream tie to the general economy. The rating also considers a history of strong maximum annual debt service (MADS) coverage, a ten-year history of stable revenue collections, and adequate legal provisions, despite a lack of debt service reserve.
