CITY of ALBUQUERQUE
TWENTY SIXTH COUNCIL
COUNCIL BILL NO. O-24-59 ENACTMENT NO. ________________________
SPONSORED BY: Tammy Fiebelkorn
ORDINANCE
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Amending The Uniform Housing Code To Require Cooling Systems (Fiebelkorn)
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WHEREAS, access to a safe and comfortable indoor environment is fundamental to housing quality and in Albuquerque, adequate cooling is essential to ensure the comfort and safety of a tenant; and
WHEREAS, Albuquerque's summers have become increasingly hotter and longer, with rising temperatures and prolonged heatwaves, creating an emerging need for cooling systems to be required in all rental units; and
WHEREAS, extreme heat can cause serious health issues, including heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and other heat-related illnesses, especially affecting vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and individuals with underlying health concerns; and
WHEREAS, the State of New Mexico mandates that all essential amenities provided in rental housing, including any cooling facilities, be maintained in good repair; and
WHEREAS, many residents of Albuquerque, many of whom are seniors and/or have low incomes, who rent their homes may not have the financial resources to purchase or install cooling equipment, making it necessary to require landlords to provide this essential utility; and
WHEREAS, any additions or improvements made to a rental unit, including but not limited to cooling systems, shall remain with the property; therefore, the installation and maintenance of these systems is the responsibility of the property owner; and
WHEREAS, neighboring cities like Dallas, Texas and states such as Arizona have implemented regulations to require landlords to provide renters with cooling systems in their rental housing; and
WHEREAS, ensuring access to cooling systems in rental properties reflects the City's dedication to the well-being of all residents, aligning with the City's commitment to pro...
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