Albuquerque Council debates $1.2M cut from APD budget amid public safety concerns

In a recent Committee of the Whole meeting held on May 15, 2025, Albuquerque city councilors engaged in a heated discussion regarding significant budget cuts to the Albuquerque Police Department (APD). The proposed amendment, which aims to reduce professional services by $1.2 million, has raised concerns about its implications for public safety and the department's operational capacity.

The $1.2 million cut is primarily linked to two specific line items: a reduction in funding for professional accountability and the termination of a contract with an independent monitor related to a Department of Justice (DOJ) consent decree. This consent decree, which had mandated oversight of APD practices, was recently terminated by a judge, leading to the elimination of the associated monitoring contract. Councilor Lewis expressed frustration over the administration's willingness to cut APD's budget, emphasizing that the chief had previously indicated a need for every dollar allocated to the department.

The discussion highlighted a broader tension between councilors and the administration regarding budgetary flexibility. Several councilors voiced disappointment over the perceived lack of communication and collaboration from the administration when it came to budget adjustments. Councilor Pena's inquiry into potential funding for employee pay increases contrasted sharply with the administration's response to other budgetary requests, leading to accusations of selective engagement with council members.

Additionally, the meeting revealed a divide among councilors about the administration's approach to budget management. Some expressed concern that the administration was more responsive to individual councilors rather than the committee as a whole, which could undermine collective decision-making processes.

As the council navigates these budgetary challenges, the implications for public safety and employee compensation remain at the forefront of discussions. The council's next steps will likely involve further negotiations with the administration to address these critical issues, as the community watches closely to see how these decisions will impact Albuquerque's safety and workforce.