Steve

Kagi AI Summary:
A Comcast outage in southeast Albuquerque affected nearly 15,000 people, starting Monday night and continuing into Tuesday afternoon. The outage was caused by damage to a fiber line by a third-party utility, according to Comcast spokesperson Kyle Biederwolf. The damaged site was deemed safe for repair at 12:45 a.m., with initial expectations of service restoration by overnight, then by 3:40 p.m. Tuesday, but the restore time was pushed to early evening. The specific utility responsible for the damage is unclear, though Albuquerque has faced issues with companies installing fiber internet infrastructure, including Vexus Fiber and Ezee Fiber, which recently had stop-work orders lifted. Xfinity customers can check outage status via the Xfinity App or website and sign up for text notifications.

Kagi AI Summary:
Albuquerque is investing nearly $167 million in capital projects across the city, with District 1 receiving over $12 million for upgrades like BioPark enhancements, park improvements, and transit hubs. Funding comes primarily from General Obligation (G.O.) bonds, backed by property taxes, with voter approval required every two years. The Capital Implementation Program manages these projects, prioritizing infrastructure, public safety, parks, and libraries. In District 1, notable projects include BioPark upgrades, new playgrounds, and renovations at Gateway Center West. The 2025 G.O. Bond proposal, totaling $200 million in requests, will be voted on in November, with funds allocated to streets, public safety, and recreational facilities.

"Eligible New Mexico voters will now be automatically registered to vote when they complete a driver’s transaction with the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). This new measure, part of House Bill 4 (HB4), passed during the 2023 legislative session, aims to expand voting rights protections across the state."

Kagi AI Summery:
Albuquerque is proposing a new opt-in zoning plan to address its housing shortage, which requires over 56,000 new homes by 2045. Sponsored by City Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn and Mayor Tim Keller, the plan allows property owners to voluntarily rezone for denser or mixed-use housing, enabling the construction of duplexes, townhomes, and small apartments in single-family neighborhoods without altering their character. The city aims to increase housing options amid rising rents and low vacancy rates, with significant price hikes noted in recent years.

Eligible property owners can apply to update their zoning, focusing on busy streets and designated redevelopment areas, while the city will process these requests. The resolution includes options for converting single-family homes in various zoning categories to allow more housing types. If approved, a 90-day outreach campaign will inform property owners about the new process, followed by a 180-day application period. The Planning Department will then have 90 days to submit qualifying conversions for review, ultimately requiring City Council approval. This initiative seeks to modernize outdated zoning rules and promote inclusive development in Albuquerque.

Kagi AI summary:
The No Kings Day protest in Albuquerque is set to take place at Mariposa Basin Park, drawing thousands of participants to voice their opposition to the Trump administration's policies. Scheduled for Saturday at 11 a.m., the event is part of a nationwide demonstration with similar protests occurring in over 20 locations across New Mexico. Rally organizer Terry Eisenbart emphasizes the need for citizens to express their discontent, highlighting concerns over the administration's perceived authoritarian shift. Congresswoman Melanie Stansbury will deliver the keynote address, alongside speakers including Grammy-winning musician Robert Mirabal and ACLU attorney Kristin Greer Love.

The family-friendly event will feature food trucks, live music, a dance party, and children's activities, culminating in a protest march designed to mock Trump's military parade. The Albuquerque Police Department is preparing for the gathering to ensure safety and manage traffic concerns. Organizers are committed to maintaining a peaceful atmosphere, while police have contingency plans in place for any unforeseen incidents. The protest aims to unite individuals against what they view as an authoritarian regime.

Kagi AI Summary:
Mayor Tim Keller's initiative for a local Renters Bill of Rights in Albuquerque faced significant opposition, resulting in the City Council's Land Use, Planning and Zoning Committee voting against advancing the proposal. The ordinance aimed to enhance tenant protections by introducing measures like fee transparency, advance notice for rent increases, and a citywide rental registry. Supporters believed it was vital for providing fair treatment and safety for renters, especially given that 44% of Albuquerque households are renters, many of whom are financially burdened. However, the committee's debate revealed strong resistance from landlords, who expressed concerns that the proposed regulations could lead to increased costs and reduced rental availability.

Councilor Renée Grout argued that the ordinance required further refinement, while Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn emphasized the need for comprehensive protections for renters, including provisions regarding companion animals. The ordinance included various tenant rights, such as limits on eviction reasons and anti-retaliation measures, but ultimately did not pass due to lack of support. Despite this setback, city officials stressed the importance of ongoing dialogue about tenant rights and protections. Future City Council meetings will provide opportunities for public input on housing policies.

Kagi AI Summery:
Albuquerque is hosting a virtual public meeting on June 5 at noon to address concerns related to fiber optic cable installation. The meeting seeks public input on proposed new regulations for companies involved in these projects. Since January, Ezee Fiber has received 135 reports regarding their construction activities. Issues include unauthorized work hours, lack of resident notifications, and property damage from construction activities. Key topics for discussion will include unrepaired damages, utility disruptions, and the need for clear communication with residents. Participants can join the meeting via Zoom or phone, and written comments are encouraged. For immediate fiber-related concerns, residents can contact local fiber companies directly.

Kagi AI Summary:
New Mexico's largest electric utility, Public Service Company of New Mexico (PNM), is set to be acquired by Blackstone Infrastructure for approximately $11.5 billion. The acquisition includes TXNM Energy, PNM's parent company, and will involve assuming its net debt, excluding securitized debt related to past investments in the San Juan Generating Station. Approval from state regulators in New Mexico and Texas is required for the sale to proceed, with PNM planning to submit a merger application this fall. This is not TXNM Energy's first attempt to merge, as a previous plan with AVANGRID was rejected by the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission (PRC). The PRC process will allow stakeholders, including local governments and advocacy groups, to participate. Blackstone manages $60 billion in assets, including Invenergy Renewables, which is involved in the North Path Transmission Project in New Mexico. The acquisition aims to maintain PNM's headquarters in New Mexico and retain local management and employees. PNM expects that the financial backing from Blackstone will support its transition to carbon-free energy sources and meet growing electricity demands. The merger is anticipated to be finalized in the latter half of 2026. Both PNM and Blackstone express commitment to serving customers and supporting economic growth in New Mexico.

Kagi AI Summery:
The City of Albuquerque has ordered Ezee Fiber to halt all construction activities due to numerous resident complaints about unsafe and incomplete fiber optic installations. This action follows similar measures taken against another internet provider, highlighting the city's commitment to enforcing standards. Mayor Tim Keller emphasized the need for companies to communicate with residents and rectify any damage caused during installation. Ezee Fiber has been cited for various violations, including unrepaired damage, open holes, and work conducted outside permitted hours.

In response to these issues, the city is introducing new regulations for internet service providers, such as requiring direct resident notification before work begins and clear vehicle identification for contractors. Stop-work orders will remain in effect until companies comply with these regulations. District 8 City Councilor Dan Champine has proposed a temporary moratorium on new fiber installation permits to reassess current permitting standards, citing significant disruptions and complaints from residents. The City Council will consider this resolution at its May 19 meeting, underscoring the need for responsible fiber installation practices.

Kagi AI Summary:

UNM Health has decided not to endorse the Behavioral Health Medicaid Waiver Act, which is set for consideration during the upcoming legislative session in New Mexico. This legislation aims to allocate $1.1 million for providing housing and care to individuals with severe mental health issues, substance use disorders, and brain injuries, who are at risk of institutionalization or incarceration. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Tara L. Lujan, has garnered support from various groups, including the Bernalillo County Commission and the Homeless Coordinating Council (HCC).

The absence of a position from UNM Health has caused frustration among council members, as they seek to vote on the matter before the legislative session begins. UNM Health's spokesperson clarified that the decision not to take a stance is unrelated to the bill's merits; rather, it reflects the organization's relationship with the New Mexico Healthcare Authority. The proposed legislation requires the authority to apply for the waiver, which is modeled after a similar program for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Attorney Peter Cubra, a key advocate for the initiative, emphasized the potential cost-effectiveness of the waiver, noting that it could alleviate the strain on public resources caused by individuals cycling through various facilities without receiving adequate services. If approved, the initial funding would support consulting, training, and engagement with provider agencies, with the process expected to take two to three years for final approvals.

Kagi AI Summary:

Albuquerque is taking steps to enhance safety for bicycle commuters, responding to its reputation as one of the most dangerous cities for cyclists and pedestrians. Following the Vision Zero pledge in 2019, the city aims to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2040. Recent infrastructure improvements include the addition of buffered bike lanes and multi-use trails, particularly in underserved areas. However, local cyclists express concerns that the quality of cycling infrastructure varies, with many still exposed to vehicle traffic. Reports indicate a decline in bicycle-related accidents, yet aggressive driving remains a significant issue. Projects like the Albuquerque Rail Trail aim to further connect neighborhoods and improve access for cyclists. Despite progress, advocates argue that more robust protective measures are needed, as current solutions often fall short against motor vehicles. The city plans to continue investing in cyclist-friendly infrastructure, acknowledging both financial constraints and the need for more comprehensive safety measures. Overall, Albuquerque's initiatives reflect a broader struggle across Southwestern cities to create safer environments for biking.

Kagi AI Summary:

The article from City Desk ABQ outlines three unique ways for Albuquerque residents to assist the homeless community. First, it highlights the need for volunteers to participate in the annual point-in-time (PIT) count, which helps gather data essential for securing federal funding. This year's count will take place from January 23 to January 29, with a call for volunteers to assist in various capacities.

Second, the Homeless Coordinating Council (HCC) is seeking community members to join newly formed subcommittees focused on different aspects of homelessness, including data-sharing and prevention efforts. City Councilor Nichole Rogers emphasizes the importance of community involvement in tackling homelessness effectively.

Lastly, the article discusses the New Mexico Circular Sanitation Project, which aims to provide composting toilets as a solution to public health issues related to outdoor sanitation. Led by Tawnya Mullen, this initiative has garnered support from a diverse group of volunteers and professionals. The article encourages readers to engage with these efforts to make a tangible difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness in Albuquerque.