ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – Bringing life to Downtown and increasing safety, that’s the goal of a new proposal by an Albuquerque city councilor who wants to crack down on vacant buildings.
Boarded up and emptied out: vacant buildings are a common sight in Downtown Albuquerque. One councilor is hoping to change that.
“When things are empty, that’s where you have crime,” said Albuquerque City Councilor Joaquin Baca.
Baca is introducing a bill this week that would impose new fines and regulations for owners of vacant buildings Downtown.
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“Here in Albuquerque, Downtown also happens to be Route 66. It happens to be the home of the KiMo Theater. The jewel of Route 66 is right here,” said Baca.
While there are already codes in place that fine building owners, Baca said his bill would create a registry to help the city be more proactive on which vacant buildings need to be inspected. Under the registry, building owners could also be asked to show proof of occupancy.