Open Letter in favor of O-24-61:
Downtown Vacancy Bill

Dear Albuquerque City Councilors and Fellow Residents,

Our urban core has immense potential, yet underused, vacant, and abandoned properties disrupt its vibrancy and drain public resources. O-24-61 offers a simple step forward, aligned with principles that foster strong, financially resilient communities and mutual accountability.

This ordinance proposes modest fees for owners of abandoned, vacant, or underutilized properties within a limited area of Downtown. While this version is more focused and less far-reaching than previous proposals, it removes controversial elements from earlier drafts and offers a sensible, achievable approach. It is a practical first step that can be expanded upon and refined as the benefits become clear, allowing us to build upon this foundation in the future.

Why O-24-61 Matters

• Encourages Productive Land Use: Vacant properties impose financial and social costs on our city while offering little in return. By incentivizing owners to invest in or repurpose their land, O-24-61 ensures Downtown can thrive as a hub of activity and community life.

• Discourages Speculative Behavior: The current system rewards inaction. This ordinance creates consequences for leaving land idle, discouraging speculation and aligning incentives with Albuquerque’s needs.

• Maximizes Public Investment: Albuquerque has already invested in Downtown’s infrastructure, yet vacant properties undermine this effort. O-24-61 helps ensure public resources yield their full potential.

• Revitalizes Downtown: Activating empty spaces invites new housing, businesses, and public amenities, making Downtown safer and more dynamic for everyone.

• Builds a Resilient Future: By fostering productive land use, O-24-61 supports small-scale development, reduces sprawl, and creates opportunities for local businesses and housing.

O-24-61 aligns with Strong Towns ABQ’s vision of incremental development and fiscal sustainability. It’s a practical solution to help Albuquerque unlock the potential of its Downtown, creating a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.

We strongly encourage the City Council to pass this ordinance. Together, we can make Albuquerque’s heart a place that works for everyone.

Sincerely,

Strong Towns Albuquerque