ABQ Times

A new ordinance aimed at curbing criminal activity in Albuquerque's problematic motels has been introduced to the City Council. The Hotel/Motel Accountability Ordinance (0-25-75), proposed by the Keller administration and sponsored by Council President Brook Bassan, seeks to impose stricter operational requirements on motels that have been identified as fostering illegal activities.

The ordinance comes in response to recent operations targeting establishments such as the Tewa Lodge, Loma Verde Motel, and Bow and Arrow Lodge, which have been linked to recurring criminal activities and code violations.

“This legislation ensures better oversight for hot spots that foster criminal behavior and endanger residents,” stated Mayor Tim Keller. “It gives us the tools we need to ensure public safety in neighborhoods that have been disrupted by illegal activity facilitated by negligent motels.”

City Council President Brook Bassan emphasized the importance of the ordinance, saying, “This ordinance is about taking real action to protect our neighborhoods from the ongoing issues caused by problematic motels. By increasing oversight and holding these businesses accountable, we are ensuring they operate responsibly and do not serve as hubs for criminal activity. Albuquerque residents deserve safe communities, and this legislation is a critical step toward that goal.”

The proposed ordinance mandates enhanced guest identification processes, record keeping, monthly reporting of Lodger’s Tax, and includes penalties such as fines or occupancy restrictions for non-compliant establishments.

“Our city’s safety, for both residents and visitors, is a responsibility we take seriously and we’ll take every action to uphold it,” said Planning Department Director Alan Varela. “With this new law, we can hold motels accountable, preventing them from profiting off crime and ensuring they serve their intended purpose.”

The City Council received the ordinance on its Letter of Introduction today.