Albuquerque City Councilors are set to vote Wednesday on a rental protections ordinance that would give the city authority to enforce state renter laws and on funding to help 92 households stay in their homes.
Housing dominates the agenda, with final action expected on the Rental Practices Ordinance, O‑25‑102, which would codify state protections while allowing local enforcement. The measure, deferred at the last meeting, would cap screening fees at $50, limit late fees to 5% of rent and require at least one no‑fee way to pay. Code enforcement and the city’s legal department would handle violations, with penalties of $250 per violation. Enforcement gaps under state law have left renters with rights on paper but little recourse.
The council will consider an emergency funding increase of $662,526 for Heading Home to maintain supportive permanent housing for 92 households through June 30. The funds, from the Rapid Rehousing Project, would cover rental assistance, case management and wraparound services to help families already housed avoid returning to homelessness.
Councilors will also consider a $600,000 social services agreement with Catholic Charities to launch the Housing Resource Center and Move-In Mentor Program. The programs provide needs assessments, financial support and guidance for households at high risk of losing housing.
The council is set to vote on reappointments that maintain continuity in city leadership.
Mayor Tim Keller has asked the council to reappoint Samantha Sengel as chief administrative officer, citing her role in ending federal oversight of the Albuquerque Police Department, expanding the Gateway Network and managing public facility projects.
Keller also recommended reappointing Chief Emily Jaramillo, the fire department’s first woman chief, noting her work improving emergency response, expanding behavioral health programs and addressing staffing and training needs.
Get Involved
The meeting starts Jan. 21 at 5 p.m. in the Vincent E. Griego Chambers.
To speak during public comment, you must sign up online by 4 p.m. Wednesday or call (505) 768-3100 for help.
Join virtually (Webinar ID: 864 5366 6728) or by phone at (669) 444-9171, then enter the Webinar ID.
Watch live on Comcast Channel 16 (GOVTV), cabq.gov/govtv or youtube.com/@GOVTVBoardsCommissionMeetings
Share this story and start a conversation
