Two zoning amendments were heard by the City Council on June 5, 2023. O-23-77 (the Citywide IDO annual update) passed. O-22-54 (Housing Forward) was continued to the June 21st Council meeting. No public comment will be allowed at that meeting; however, you can still write and ask Councilors to vote NO on O-22-54; Housing Forward. We recognize the need for housing. However, changes to commercial and residential zoning in a single bill, without adequate notice and ample input from citizens, is not practicing open, transparent good government.  None of these provisions will increase affordable housing—meaning 30% or less spent on housing costs—nor address homeless issues. 

Consider the Impacts:

·       It would allow two-family residences plus Accessory Dwelling Units permissively on R-1 zoned lots, potentially tripling density on a single lot. This plan, impacting 68% of the homeowners in Albuquerque, has no communication plan to inform the public.  These changes impact infrastructure and your property taxes without your involvement. HOA’s will not be protected by their covenants! 

·       It would allow motel/motel conversions to apartments without full kitchens; making them less practical for long-term housing.

·       It would allow apartment buildings to go higher than 3 to 4 stories, affecting neighbors’ privacy and solar access.

·       Other communities that have implemented similar changes have seen outside interests buying properties and quickly turning them into market-rate rental properties, not affordable housing.  

·       ADU’s and duplexes are already allowed conditionally.

Call to Action:

Add your voice to a growing number of Albuquerque residents who want the City Council to vote NO on Housing Forward O-22-54 so that our community can develop real and measurable solutions to housing. Sign the petition to show your opposition--crisis legislation is no substitute for thoughtful planning!