Bernalillo County has announced that its commissioners have approved amendments to an ordinance aimed at enhancing public safety around waterways and aiding municipal agencies in maintaining crucial waterway facilities. The amendments were passed unanimously with a 5 to 0 vote.
In response to increased levels of homelessness, public waterways such as arroyos, irrigation channels, and ditches have seen a rise in loitering and camping. According to a press release by Bernalillo County, the amendments focus on promoting compliance rather than immediate arrests, requiring officers to issue written warnings to unauthorized individuals before considering arrests. In situations of imminent danger, officers are mandated to give a verbal warning before proceeding to a written citation or arrest.
The press release from Bernalillo County also stated that the amendments acknowledge the need for public agency officials to have safe access for the operation and maintenance of waterways and associated facilities. The recent approval of amendments to the waterway safety ordinance by Bernalillo County commissioners closely aligns with legislation enacted by the City of Albuquerque in August 2022.
Quezada, sponsor for the ordinance and District 2 Commissioner said, "I’m glad we were able to pass these amendments to our waterway safety ordinance because it gives public employees the necessary tools to safely perform their jobs and keep residents out of danger. It’s important that we continue to operate these vital waterways while keeping our employees and the public safe."
According to information provided on the Bernalillo County Board of Commissioners webpage, the board's responsibilities include serving as the county canvassing board, board of finance, and zoning board. They hold final authority over the county budget, confirm property tax rates, issue general obligation bonds, determine appropriations, pass ordinances, make appointments, and establish zoning and business regulations. The board is composed of five elected members.