ABQ Times

Mayor Tim Keller's administration has submitted the Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal to Albuquerque City Council. The $1.5 billion budget intends to sustain critical services and prepare for potential financial challenges. It highlights investments in public safety, homelessness, small business initiatives, and programs for families.

"Albuquerque is finally breaking through decades’ old barriers that have been holding our city back. We’re turning the corner–bringing down crime, sheltering and helping people experiencing homelessness, and revitalizing our communities," Mayor Keller stated. "This budget ensures we keep gaining traction on the long-standing challenges facing our city and investing in programs that lift up our families."

The city anticipates slowed revenue growth, prompting a fiscally responsible strategy to maintain essential services. Inflation, economic disruptions, and potential federal funding cuts call for a flexible budget to meet community needs. The completion of the Gateway System for the unhoused necessitates opioid settlement and operating funds to open new services to help residents transition off the streets.

Kevin Sourisseau, the City's Chief Financial Officer, remarked, "We’re moving forward responsibly during tough times, while continuing investments to provide the essentials. With the real threat of federal grants being eliminated, and the subsequent impacts to Albuquerque families, we’re preparing for economic uncertainty and staying focused on vital services our families need most."

The City plans to reduce non-essential spending and assess sales of non-essential assets to counteract potential federal cuts. Additional revenue sources, such as opioid and marijuana reinvestment funds, aim to bolster services for vulnerable residents.

Public safety remains a key focus, with historic investments bolstering police, fire, and community safety responses. Notably, crime rates have decreased across major categories, and arrests have risen. The Albuquerque Community Safety department continues to lead in alternative response methods for mental and behavioral health issues. The budget includes funding for Fire Station 23 at the upcoming Southwest Public Safety Center.

The city's comprehensive approach to homelessness and behavioral health involves sheltering over 1,000 people nightly through the Gateway Network. Plans to activate opioid settlement funds will support services for addiction treatment and housing. The proposed budget aims for compassionate solutions to homelessness and expanded resources for the city's most vulnerable.

Support for permanent supportive housing, mental health services, substance abuse programs, and domestic violence shelters are prioritized within the budget. Additionally, job readiness training, small business development, and community redevelopment receive funding to enhance quality of life.

The Gateway Network offers significant support for homelessness and addiction issues, featuring various facilities like the Gateway Center, Gateway West, Gateway Family, Gateway Recovery, and Gateway Young Adult. These centers provide a range of services, including medical care, accommodation, and case management, impacting thousands yearly. The network hosts several key tenants focussed on mental health and addiction treatment.