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County adopts introductions for 2026 fair market rents and utility allowances
Summary
Bernalillo County introduced administrative resolutions to set 2026 fair market rents and update tenant utility allowances after reviewing rental and utility data; both introductory items passed the board and will return for final adoption in later hearings.
The Board of County Commissioners on Dec. 10 introduced administrative resolutions to establish the Bernalillo County Fair Market Rent (FMR) for 2026 and to update utility allowances for housing voucher operations.
Deputy Director Carrie Ellis said HUD sets FMRs and the county uses flexibility for payment standards; the county recommended a small increase to studios/efficiencies while maintaining 2025 payment standards for one‑through six‑bedroom units, keeping a roughly 3% cushion above HUD guidance. For utilities, Ellis reported that PNM electricity rose about 12% (Oct 2024–Sep 2025), New Mexico Gas Company decreased about 18%, propane rose 4% and City of Albuquerque trash fees rose 1% — collectively triggering required adjustments when a provider crosses a 10% change threshold.
Both introductory resolutions were approved on the record (motions, seconds and 5‑0 votes). Staff said third‑party utility surveys formed the basis for new allowances and that voucher payment standard ranges (90–110% of published FMR) remain in place to preserve housing choice.
