CITY of ALBUQUERQUE
TWENTY FIFTH COUNCIL
COUNCIL BILL NO. R-23-183 ENACTMENT NO. ________________________
SPONSORED BY: Isaac Benton, Tammy Fiebelkorn, Renée Grout
RESOLUTION
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Requiring The Department Of Family And Community Services To Plan, Design, And Construct An Outdoor Recreational Space At The Westside Emergency Housing Center. Providing An Appropriation To The Department (Benton, Fiebelkorn, Grout)
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REQUIRING THE DEPARTMENT OF FAMILY AND COMMUNITY SERVICES TO PLAN, DESIGN, AND CONSTRUCT AN OUTDOOR RECREATIONAL SPACE AT THE WESTSIDE EMERGENCY HOUSING CENTER. PROVIDING AN APPROPRIATION TO THE DEPARTMENT.
WHEREAS, homelessness is a pressing and ongoing issue affecting individuals and families in our community, and it is our moral and social responsibility to address this crisis effectively; and
WHEREAS, the largest homeless shelter in our community, the Westside Emergency Housing Center (WEHC), has been serving those in need for many years, but it is in need of significant improvements to better meet the basic needs and safety of its residents; and
WHEREAS, a safe and supportive shelter environment is essential to help individuals experiencing homelessness regain their stability and work towards self-sufficiency; and
WHEREAS, the recent economic challenges and unforeseen circumstances have led to an increase in the number of people seeking shelter and services, making it crucial to enhance our shelter facilities; and
WHEREAS, investing in the WEHC is a long-term solution that can contribute to improving the quality of life for all residents; and
WHEREAS, every person who lives in Albuquerque deserves a safe and inviting outdoor recreational space to improve their physical and mental well-being; and
WHEREAS, creating an improved outdoor recreational space is an opportunity to foster a sense of community, belonging, and hope among shelter residents, which can be a crucial element in their journey toward stability and self-sufficiency; and
WHEREAS, enhancing the outdoor recreational space of the WEHC aligns with our commitment to providing holistic and comprehensive support to those in need, recognizing that their well-being extends beyond just shelter and food; and
WHEREAS, by investing in the outdoor recreational space at the WEHC, we are investing in the resilience and potential of individuals experiencing homelessness, which will contribute to their ability to transition into stable housing and employment; and
WHEREAS, it is our responsibility to create a shelter environment that not only provides for the basic needs of residents, but also supports their personal growth, social connections, and future opportunities.
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL, THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE CITY OF ALBUQUERQUE:
SECTION 1. The Department of Family and Community Services is directed to plan, design, and construct an outdoor recreational space at the Westside Emergency Housing Center (WHEC) with the following objectives:
1. To create a safe and welcoming environment that promotes the well-being and social interaction of shelter residents.
2. To provide facilities and amenities suitable for recreational activities, exercise, relaxation, and community gatherings.
3. To ensure adequate outdoor shade and seating, making the space suitable for year-round use for shelter residents.
4. To provide spaces for pets of WEHC residents to exercise.
5. To ensure the outdoor space is accessible to all shelter residents, including those with disabilities.
SECTION 2. The following appropriation is hereby made to the Capital Program to the specific funds and projects as indicated below for Fiscal Year 2024:
Increase
Department Source (Decrease)
Family & Community Services
Homeless Encampments 2021 GO BOND (75,000)
WEHC Outdoor Rec Space 2021 GO BOND 75,000