Jesse Jones, nm.news, Author at City Desk ABQ

Tenants at a Northeast Heights apartment complex went weeks without air conditioning in extreme heat, despite a city law requiring cooling in all rental properties. Management at The Retreat at Candelaria told residents there was “nothing we can do,” according to tenant John Reiser, even as indoor temperatures hit 90 degrees or more.

Tenants Lose Their Cool

This report was co-published with The Paper., Albuquerque’s weekly home for arts, culture, news and events. After weeks without air conditioning during extreme heat, tenants at The Retreat at Candelaria say repairs are finally in motion, weeks into triple-digit temperatures and days after city inspectors ordered repairs. Despite a city ordinance requiring landlords to provide […]

Local Gov.

Mayor Keller’s ICE policy sparks backlash from mayoral challenger Darren White

by Jesse Jones, nm.news July 16, 2025July 17, 2025

Albuquerque mayoral candidate Darren White is calling for a federal investigation into Mayor Tim Keller’s new policy that lets residents call police to verify whether federal immigration agents are operating nearby. Keller announced the change July 12, saying it would help build trust and transparency with immigrant communities. The next day, White — a former […]

City leaders break ground at the future site of the Southwest Safety Center last year. (CABQ)

Local Gov.

New parks, fire stations and community centers

by Jesse Jones, nm.news July 15, 2025July 15, 2025

Albuquerque has launched or completed nearly $167 million in capital projects across the city, from new parks and fire stations to library upgrades and public art. These efforts aim to improve daily life and core services in every City Council district. This series breaks down where the money went, what was built and how it […]

Albuquerque

Councilor’s meeting on possible ART changes sparks heated debate

by Jesse Jones, nm.news July 11, 2025July 11, 2025

At a tense July 10 town hall, Councilor Louie Sanchez called for federal rule changes to fix Albuquerque’s ART line, drawing sharp criticism and strong support from business owners, residents and transit riders. The meeting at the Patrick J. Baca Library near Central and Unser was meant to gather public feedback as Sanchez, who is […]

Local Gov.

Albuquerque renters swelter as landlord delays repairs — until inspectors show up

by Jesse Jones, nm.news July 10, 2025July 10, 2025

Tenants at a Northeast Heights apartment complex went weeks without air conditioning in extreme heat, despite a city law requiring cooling in all rental properties. Management at The Retreat at Candelaria told residents there was “nothing we can do,” according to tenant John Reiser, even as indoor temperatures hit 90 degrees or more. That changed […]

The Children’s Fantasy Garden at the Botanic Garden is getting an upgrade. It was originally estimated at $5 million, but so far it’s received about $807,000. The city plans to make the area safer, more accessible and more fun for kids, with community input shaping the redesign. (CABQ)

Albuquerque

Albuquerque’s $167 million citywide boost

by Jesse Jones, nm.news July 10, 2025July 10, 2025

Albuquerque is investing big in its future — nearly $167 million in capital projects have already been launched or completed across the city. From new parks and library upgrades to fire stations and public art, these efforts aim to improve everyday life in every district. This series breaks down where the money went, what was […]

From BioPark Upgrades to Medians: A look at public projects in District 1

Albuquerque is investing big in its future — nearly $167 million in capital projects are in the pipeline across the city. From new parks and library upgrades to fire stations and public art, these projects aim to improve everyday life in every district. This series will break down where that money is going, what’s being […]

A man died Wednesday morning after being stabbed near an Albuquerque city bus, leading to the detention of the bus driver.

Rapid Transit line’s impact on Central sparks call for federal rule changes

An Albuquerque city councilor is urging Congress to change federal rules so cities can fix flawed transit projects like the Rapid Transit line without risking costly penalties, as Central Avenue businesses struggle. Councilor Louie Sanchez wants federal grant rules overhauled in the 2025 transportation bill, saying the Albuquerque Rapid Transit (ART) bus line is doing […]

Councilor Rogers hosts July 3 Community Conversation

District 6 Councilor Nichole Rogers will host her next “Community Conversation” from 5 to 7 p.m., Thursday at Flock of Moons Brewing Company to share updates on development projects, policy changes and the upcoming participatory budgeting groundbreaking. The July 3 event, part of Rogers’ monthly series held at rotating venues across District 6, offers residents […]

Burqueños can expect ramped-up patrols and enforcement over the Fourth of July holiday to curb illegal fireworks and prevent fires in high-risk areas like the Bosque and foothills.

Everything you need to know for Freedom 4th

Albuquerque’s biggest Fourth of July celebration returns Friday to Balloon Fiesta Park with fireworks, live music and a strong push for safety amid ongoing fire restrictions. City officials want Burqueños to enjoy the free Freedom Fourth event while keeping fire risks in mind. Speaking at a press conference on fireworks safety, leaders said tens of […]