Q&A Albuquerque City Council District 9 Colton Newman

Name: Colton A. Newman

Political party: Democrat

Age: 29

Education: Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a Minor in Sustainability Studies, and Master of Science in Project Management, both earned from the University of New Mexico.

Occupation: Business Manager, UNM Center on Alcohol, Substance Use and Addictions (CASAA).

Family: One dog, Nyla

Relevant experience: Business Manager at the University of New Mexico Center on Alcohol, Substance Use and Addictions, overseeing strategic planning, operations, budgets, and organizational efficiency. Formerly with the UNM Sustainability Studies Program, advancing interdisciplinary initiatives in environmental education and sustainability. At the UNM Office of Research Integrity and Compliance, supported efforts to ensure ethical research practices across campus. Elected member of the UNM Staff Council Executive Committee, advocating for staff compensation, campus improvements, and health and safety initiatives, including training and access to life-saving resources such as Narcan.

Campaign website: coltonforabq.com

1. What is the biggest issue facing the city of Albuquerque today, and how would you address it?

Inequity is Albuquerque’s biggest challenge, leaving too many without access to jobs, affordable housing, safe neighborhoods, and essential services. I will prioritize equitable investment, workforce development, and community-driven solutions to ensure every resident has the resources and opportunities to thrive.

2. What is your strategy for improving public safety?

I support a balanced approach to public safety that combines targeted, visible policing in high-crime areas with investments in social services and programs addressing root causes of crime. Strengthening partnerships between residents and law enforcement, and focusing on prevention, can make Albuquerque safer for all.

3. Under what circumstances, if any, would you support raising taxes?

I would only support raising taxes when necessary to maintain critical city services and programs, especially if external funding is reduced. Any increase would be carefully targeted, transparent, and aimed at protecting Albuquerque’s residents and essential operations.

4. What specific industries should the city target with economic development incentives?

The city should target economic development incentives to industries that create sustainable, well-paying jobs, including green energy, agriculture, healthcare, technology, and creative sectors. Supporting these industries will help Albuquerque retain skilled workers, grow opportunity, and strengthen neighborhoods for the long term.

5. What are your economic development strategies for boosting small, local businesses?

I would support small, local businesses by reducing red tape, streamlining licensing and permitting, lowering excessive fees, and making inspections easier to schedule and timelier. These steps help entrepreneurs focus on growth, creating jobs, and strengthening Albuquerque’s neighborhoods and local economy.

6. What steps would you take to increase affordable housing and address a growing homeless population?

I would focus on investing in mixed-use developments that provide affordable housing alongside nearby jobs, food, and essential services. By targeting resources efficiently and creating integrated communities, the city can ensure funds produce tangible results, reduce homelessness, and offer low-income residents access to stable, supportive environments.

7. When it comes to mental health and substance abuse issues, which services would you prioritize under a new state behavioral health law?

I would prioritize accessible crisis intervention, community-based treatment, and recovery support services. Expanding timely care, including counseling, outpatient programs, and harm reduction initiatives, ensures individuals struggling with mental health or substance use receive the support they need while reducing strain on emergency services and improving overall community well-being.

8. Do you support Albuquerque’s current immigration policies in light of the U.S. Department of Justice’s determination it is a sanctuary jurisdiction? How would you instruct local law enforcement to work with federal immigration officials?

Yes. I support Albuquerque’s sanctuary policies, which prioritize public safety and community trust over federal immigration enforcement. I would ensure local police do not assist, aid, or protect ICE or other federal immigration enforcement. Their role should remain focused on keeping residents safe and maintaining trust in the community.

9. What large infrastructure projects would you push for in the city's next capital implementation program?

I would prioritize infrastructure that improves livability and sustainability: creating cultural spaces for music and arts, adding cooling solutions to reduce urban heat, and installing solar panels on city buildings and parking lots. These projects enhance quality of life, promote clean energy, and make Albuquerque more vibrant and resilient.

10. What plans do you have to raise the quality of life for Albuquerque residents?

I would raise quality of life by investing in safe, healthy, and thriving communities: expanding affordable housing, improving public safety, supporting small businesses, increasing access to healthcare, adding more green spaces, promoting arts and entertainment, and ensuring city resources deliver tangible results for residents.

11. What specific metrics would you use to gauge your success?

I would gauge success using clear indicators: reductions in long-term homelessness, lower crime rates, the number of affordable housing units built or preserved, increased access to healthcare and behavioral health services, and growth in local employment and small businesses. These metrics ensure accountability and real results for Albuquerque residents.

12. What differentiates you from your opponents?

I run a hands-on campaign and make my own decisions, no managers, no one whispering in my ear. I bring that same grit to office: ready to tackle challenges directly, make tough choices, and focus on results for Albuquerque without letting politics or outside influences get in the way.

13. Name one issue not mentioned in the questions above that you would plan to tackle.

I would work to protect Albuquerque from federal actions that threaten city programs and funding, ensuring local resources are preserved for public safety, housing, and community services. By defending the city’s autonomy, we can continue investing in residents and delivering tangible results.

Personal background

1. Have you or your business, if you are a business owner, ever been the subject of any state or federal tax liens?

No

2. Have you ever been involved in a personal or business bankruptcy proceeding?

No

3. Have you ever been arrested for, charged with, or convicted of drunken driving, any misdemeanor or any felony in New Mexico or any other state?

No