Albuquerque · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Albuquerque public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Gross Receipts Tax Increase Proposal
A proposed new city sales tax of 0.4875% was set to go before voters in November to fund city operations, employee wages, and community projects starting July 2027. A 7-2 council vote blocked the ballot measure from even being introduced, though the underlying ordinance remains in the file. Expect this fight to continue.
Tax Increase Rejection
The Albuquerque City Council killed a proposal to raise the gross receipts tax, so sales taxes in the city are staying put. That means no new tax hit at checkout—but also no extra revenue for whatever the city hoped to fund.
Tax Increase Vote
Albuquerque’s City Council just said no—again—to a gross receipts tax increase. That means your sales tax bill in the city isn’t going up for now, but the budget debate may not be over.
FY27 Budget Reconciliation (R-26-39)
Councilor Lewis repeatedly challenged the administration's claim of $35 million in 'savings,' arguing the budget actually spends $25 million more than last year. Expect this fight to dominate spring budget hearings.
Budget Proposal
Albuquerque’s proposed budget would hike fees at city-run spots like pools and the zoo, so your usual weekend outing could cost more if it passes. It’s a budget-balancing move that hits residents at the ticket counter and locker room.
Gross Receipts Tax Increase
Councilors Bassan and Baca proposed a 0.4875% GRT hike to fund capital projects (including a long-promised West Side project) and city worker pay. After amendments cut it to 0.1275% and dedicated operations money to employee compensation, it still failed 1-8. Residents will not see a new city tax — and city workers' raises remain unfunded.
City budget health and the $3.5M state error
GRT is running 5.7% above last year, but about $3.5 million of that is a state error payment and hold-harmless anomalies — underlying growth is closer to the 3.8% the budget assumed. The council sparred over how much money is actually left in the general fund.