nm.news

AI Summary:

Saying “factors beyond our control… made continuing challenging”, organizers of the nation’s largest Native American Pow Wow announced on Saturday that the 2026 event in Albuquerque would be its last.

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.

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.

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.

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.