The city of Albuquerque has unveiled plans to actively seek Tribal input prior to initiating any development within or around sacred Tribal areas or land. The focus is on modifications to the Integrated Development Ordinance (IDO), which consists of zoning and subdivision regulations that serve as the framework governing land use and development in Albuquerque.
In a joint effort involving the Mayor's Office, Planning Department, Office of Native American Affairs, City Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn, and Council Services Department, proposed changes to the city's IDO process aim to mandate the referral of relevant development projects near Tribal lands. These include areas such as the Petroglyph National Monument, the sacred burial grounds of the old Albuquerque Indian School, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center property, and other culturally and archaeologically significant sites to Tribal Nations. This adjustment would allow tribes the opportunity to offer comments during the development review and approval process. According to a press release by the city of Albuquerque, a detailed presentation of these proposed IDO amendments is scheduled for Dec. 13 at the Planning Department's monthly meeting at Barelas Community Center.
Fiebelkorn said: "Tribal consultation is an important part of our city’s work to ensure equity and inclusion. I’m pleased to submit this IDO proposal to ensure that our tribal counterparts are given a voice in decisions that impact them, their lands, and their sacred areas."
Terry Sloan, Intergovernmental Tribal Liaison, also expressed his views on this initiative: "Albuquerque will now ensure Tribes have a voice in developments that impact sensitive locations."
The Office of Native American Affairs in Albuquerque is primarily focused on policy and program initiatives aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of Native American individuals. According to information provided by the city of Albuquerque on its webpage for this office, it is also dedicated to fostering and strengthening intergovernmental relations between Albuquerque and tribal governments.