On November 4, Albuquerque voters will decide on a $350 million general obligation bond to fund various projects across the Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) district. The proposed bond aims to finance construction and upgrades at several schools without raising the current tax rate.
At a September 25 meeting, Dr. Gabriella Durán Blakey, superintendent of APS, and Dr. Antonio Gonzales, deputy superintendent, presented details about the bond to the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Gonzales explained that if approved, the bond would provide funding for projects such as converting 20 schools from evaporative coolers to refrigerated air systems and initiating construction at 13 school sites. Other planned uses include building a new career technical education student training facility, adding a classroom block at Taylor Middle School, and constructing a special needs education facility on the West Side.
Gonzales emphasized APS's ongoing investment in security measures over the past five years. "Money from the bond will be used to continue the addition of the safety upgrades as we 'engage in a layer of approach to safety. A career and technical education facility to support the work of the academies of Albuquerque will be in this question as well,'" Gonzales said. He also noted that APS has managed previous bonds effectively despite inflationary pressures and stressed that continued investment is needed so all facilities align with educational goals.
The Chamber’s Board of Directors voted unanimously in favor of supporting the bond measure. The board encourages community members to vote for its passage, highlighting its potential to create quality construction jobs during implementation and maintain momentum for student success and safety initiatives.
"APS has successfully delivered projects for bonds in the past, and despite inflation, the district has made the most of its funding," said Gonzales. He urged continued support so that previously approved work can be completed and facilities remain up-to-date.
The final decision now rests with Albuquerque voters when they go to polls on November 4.
