An escalation in vandalism in a nearby alley has prompted homeowners to call on the city of Albuquerque to take action to stop the nuisance in their community. The homeowners told KRQE the alley is overrun with homeless people, who cause constant disruption.
“It’s sketchy, to be honest with you,” area homeowner Eric Niles told KRQE. “I mean there is lots of debris, and I encounter people occasionally also and not to judge the people that I see, but sometimes it’s kind of scary.”
Neighbors have expressed concerns about vandalism and trash, including alcohol containers, cigarette butts, and drug paraphernalia. They also mentioned holes were being dug in the alley.
Homeowners have installed security cameras, motion-activated lights, no trespassing signs, and even created a neighborhood watch, according to KRQE. Surveillance video viewed by KRQE shows several people loitering in and around the alley and using it as a restroom. Others were seen starting fires.
“It would be nice, actually, if our city councilor would come down and knock on our door, and we will walk her through the alley, so she could take a look,” Niles said. “I don’t think she has responded to all of this.”
Neighbors are asking the city to install a gate that only people living in nearby homes can access. However, a City of Albuquerque Planning and Zoning spokesperson told KRQE the alley is a city right-of-way, making it difficult for private access.
Policy Analyst for Albuquerque City Councilor Trudy Jones, who represents the far Northeast Heights said her office has contacted homeowners about their concerns but offered no immediate solutions.
Anyone with concerns about homeless camps on city property can contact 311 or 242-COPS. While homeowners are responsible for maintaining areas adjacent to their homes, a Solid Waste Department spokesperson said crews are sent out to clean up camps and hazardous waste.
