Bernalillo County Commissioners on Tuesday, Jan. 28 moved to reassure communities near the New Mexico state fairgrounds that their voices will be heard and their needs considered in any potential redevelopment of the site.
The commission voted unanimously to introduce legislation creating a tax increment development district (TIDD) centered on the fairgrounds, but that measure will not get a full vote until after the commission hears more from community stakeholders. The TIDD designation would allow the county to issue bonds to pay for infrastructure improvements and a portion of gross receipts taxes or property taxes collected within the district would be used to pay off the bond debt.
Consideration of final adoption is scheduled for March 11.
Commissioner Adriann Barboa, who represents the area, said she’s both excited and very anxious about the project. She said officials will make substantial community engagement efforts as the future of the 236-acre midtown Albuquerque site takes shape.
Barboa said she would like to see different forms of outreach that give stakeholders a lot of opportunity to participate in the discussion.
Several members of the public shared their thoughts and concerns during Tuesday’s meeting.
“Our goal is really giving voice to and making sure that our neighborhood residents have self determination for where redevelopment happens,” John Bulten, director of East Central Ministries, said. “We need development in our neighborhood, but we’re going to be paying attention. We want to be at the table to help shape it and guide it, making sure that we celebrate the best of the International District and all of our culture.”
Roger Valdez, director of the Center for Housing economics, said he would like to see affordable housing considered as part of any redevelopment.
“We hope that you’ll consider, very seriously, community benefits and keeping the community at the table in a serious and meaningful way,” he said. “And be sure that whatever happens at the fairgrounds, regardless of the outcome of the master plan and other decisions, that the tax increment financing district is used for the maximum benefit of the community.”
Commissioner Frank Baca said community engagement is the way to ensure a project, and listening to stakeholders up front will make the process move more smoothly.
New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham last month announced the state would seek proposals for a master plan to redevelop the 236-acre midtown Albuquerque site. She said the site could include housing or a new arena suitable for hosting large-scale concerts and special events.
Marcos Gonzales, the county’s executive development officer, said state officials are also conducting public outreach about the project. He said the rules for creating the TIDD require substantial notification of the public, including signs posted at the fairgrounds.
Commission Chair Eric Olivas said a proper redevelopment effort could boost an area that has historically missed out on reinvestment seen elsewhere in the county.