ABQ Times

As temperatures rise, the City of Albuquerque has enacted Ordinance O-59, mandating cooling systems in all rental properties to safeguard tenants from extreme heat. This legislative move aims to enhance renters' comfort and safety during prolonged and intense summer conditions, ensuring protection from heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

City Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn sponsored the ordinance, which amends the Uniform Housing Code to require landlords to equip rental properties with cooling facilities. Mayor Tim Keller commented on the development, stating, "This is a big win for renters in Albuquerque. Having cooling in your home isn’t a luxury, it’s a basic necessity. This ordinance is about protecting people’s health and well-being and making sure renters are safe during the intense heat of summer."

Councilor Fiebelkorn echoed the necessity of the regulation, expressing, "Too many renters have suffered through unbearable heat without relief. This new law puts the needs of people first. It’s about dignity, safety, and making sure our most vulnerable neighbors are not left behind."

Alan Varela, Planning Department Director, also voiced support for the ordinance, noting, "Avoiding heat stroke and heat exhaustion in the summer is definitely as important as not freezing in the winter. We strongly support this law because it helps provide basic safety for renters."

This initiative aligns Albuquerque with other cities and states like Dallas, Texas, and Arizona, which have implemented similar requirements for cooling systems in rental units. The policy marks Albuquerque's commitment to enhancing housing conditions in response to climate challenges.