RGF and tax hike opponents win at ABQ City Council!

The Albuquerque City Council late last night rejected a major tax increase. The Rio Grande Foundation spoke out against the tax hike directly and helped our friends at Americans for Prosperity organize opposition. The vote wound up 8-1 against the tax hike although support was much stronger as both cosponsors of the bill voted against the amended version.

Ultimately the vote was good for the City and its residents and businesses. Many government employees DID show up to testify in support, but with the City budget having grown dramatically in recent years (approximately doubling under Keller over 8 years) it is impossible to justify a significant tax hike.

RGF is pleased to have helped lead the charge in opposition to this unnecessary tax hike. We suggest ending the City’s taxpayer-funded “free” bus program and abandoning the overpriced rail trail not to mention other city spending.

The City Council postponed a vote on ranked choice voting until April 6. We’ll be working to ensure that fails as well.