ALBUQUERQUE – Albuquerque officials say a new ordinance will require a city board to consult with tribes on any matters that might affect them.
Mayor Tim Keller signed the measure on Tuesday following its approval by the City Council. He says the city’s relationships with tribes can impact public safety, jobs and homelessness.
Under the measure, the city will be required to expand its Commission on American Indian and Alaska Native Affairs from five members to nine.
Tribal governments from communities that surround or are near the Albuquerque metropolitan area will choose their representatives, rather than the City Council or mayor.
Officials say the measure recognizes tribal sovereignty, especially among tribes and pueblos near the city. Those tribal governments include the pueblos of Sandia, Isleta, Santa Ana and Laguna, and the Navajo Nation’s To’hajiilee Chapter.
