Albuquerque City Council Rejects Controversial Zoning Code Changes

Proposals aimed at addressing housing crisis fail to gain approval

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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After a lengthy debate, the Albuquerque City Council voted down a series of controversial changes to the city's zoning code that supporters said would have helped alleviate the housing crisis. The rejected proposals included allowing duplexes and townhomes in single-family neighborhoods, expanding the definition of casitas, and reducing parking requirements to enable denser housing.

Why it matters

The failure of these zoning code changes highlights the ongoing challenges Albuquerque faces in addressing its housing affordability and availability issues. The debate also underscores the tensions between those who want to increase density to boost housing supply and those concerned about preserving neighborhood character.

The details

During a marathon City Council meeting on Wednesday, Councilor Tammy Fiebelkorn attempted to reinstate zoning code changes that had been stripped out in a previous committee meeting. The proposals included allowing duplexes and townhomes in single-family home areas, expanding the definition of casitas, and reducing parking requirements to enable denser housing in certain zones. Community members spoke both in favor and against the changes, with some arguing they would make housing more affordable and accessible, while others said they would reduce property values and erode neighborhood character. The Council ultimately rejected the zoning code updates.

  • The Albuquerque City Council meeting took place on Wednesday, February 19, 2026 and lasted until midnight.

The players

Tammy Fiebelkorn

An Albuquerque City Councilor who tried to reinstate the controversial zoning code changes.

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What they’re saying

“The zoning changes would make housing more affordable and accessible.”

— Community member

“The proposals would reduce property values and erode the character of neighborhoods.”

— Community member

The takeaway

The failure of these zoning code changes highlights the ongoing challenges Albuquerque faces in addressing its housing crisis, as efforts to increase density and affordability continue to face pushback from those concerned about preserving neighborhood character.