ABQ Times

Mayor Tim Keller and the City of Albuquerque are expressing concern over imminent federal budgetary cuts under the Trump administration, which could jeopardize over $200 million in grants affecting local programs and law enforcement efforts. Highlighting the issue, Mayor Keller held a town hall meeting at Manzano Mesa Multigenerational Center with more than 230 residents attending.

Mayor Keller stated, "These dangerous cuts are very real for every city in America and would have huge consequences for our families in Albuquerque. But this is not our first rodeo with Donald Trump, and we will keep fighting for our families and defend our city against anyone trying to tear us apart."

The potential budget cuts could impact numerous city services, including Albuquerque Police Department (APD) funding, community safety initiatives, early childhood programs, infrastructure projects, and support for local businesses. Mayor Keller disclosed that resources at risk consist of funding for APD officers, crime lab equipment, crime-fighting technology, drug enforcement, and victim services. Projects like Uptown Connect and the Rail Trail development face threats of reduced funding as well.

“These potential cuts are, pure and simple, dangerous to our city," stated Mayor Keller. He emphasized, "Regardless of our party or feelings about the White House, no one in Albuquerque is better off when kids go without child care, a crime lab is without officers, streets and neighborhoods are without trees, or seniors go without meals.”

The mayor pointed out incidents of threatened funding, such as a demand from the Senior Affairs Department to remove certain diversity terms, risking AmeriCorps volunteer support for local seniors. The department acted promptly to safeguard this funding. In the upcoming weeks, the City of Albuquerque plans to launch a dashboard to monitor these developments.

To counter the cuts, Albuquerque is enhancing legal support, revamping grant writing efforts, and working with County and State partners to find flexible funding solutions. The City also aims to reduce non-essential spending and evaluate the sale of surplus properties. Additionally, funds from opioid settlements and marijuana taxes may be utilized to offset potential shortfalls.

The administration is doubling down on commitments to renewable energy, support for minority businesses, and immigrant families through its various Office of Civil Rights initiatives. Mayor Keller encouraged community action, suggesting residents unite as "One Albuquerque" to support local nonprofits facing similar funding challenges.

During the town hall, attendees engaged with City officials and learned about community resources, including those provided by groups such as the Sierra Club and the New Mexico Minority Business Development Agency.