Q&A Albuquerque Mayor Eddie Varela

Name: Eddie Varela

Political party: Republican

Age: 72

Education: Attended UNM, Graduate UNM School of Emergency Medicine

Occupation: Retired 30-year Fire Fighter and Paramedic & Fire Chief

Family: 9 Children, 8 boys and 1 girl

Relevant experience: Fire Chief, Deputy Chief, Lieutenant, Captain, Assistant Chief, Paramedic, Fire Fighter, President Fire Fighters Union, City Council Member for the city of Reserve, President of Reserve, NM School Board, Business owner 23 years

Campaign website: EddieVarelaForMayor.com

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

After over two years studying homelessness and weekly visits, I understand its complexity, especially fentanyl's impact. My strategy includes using private security to compassionately assist the homeless, distinguishing between those seeking help and those not. Offenders face legal actions, with incarceration or relocation options, aiming for a cost-effective reduction.

2. What is your strategy for improving public safety?

We'll enforce a minor curfew, holding parents liable for violations, and overhaul the Police Department to increase officer numbers. Introducing "Police ROTC" for youth and "Police Day Work" for retired officers will strengthen patrol visibility and law enforcement pathways, reinforcing APD's authority for a safer Albuquerque.

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

There is no way I will raise taxes. When I study the budget, I find many areas of wasteful spending. We are experiencing zero economic growth and yet the budget has doubled in the last eight years.

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

Albuquerque's economic growth has soared with Amazon's addition, showcasing our city as a prime example of targeted economic development success. I advocate for attracting more job-producing industries, utilizing Westside land and supporting job-creating incentives. Clean industry remains our success key, ensuring sustainable expansion.

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

As mayor, I'll prioritize small business revival, addressing homelessness and crime impacts. My plan includes incentives like waived startup costs, utility vouchers, and repurposing vacant buildings for small business occupancy. The "Remodel Initiative" will transform large spaces into affordable units, supported by city financial aid, simplified startup processes, and efficient zoning reorganization.

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

To address affordable housing, I'll advocate for capping rent increases and auditing market prices. For homelessness, linked with the fentanyl crisis, I'll implement a nuanced strategy using private security for outreach and providing support or relocation options, aiming to effectively reduce homelessness and save taxpayer dollars.

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

Under my leadership, the city will pivot from direct medical treatment, entrusting mental health and substance abuse care to hospitals. This follows the State Behavioral Health Law, channeling substantial funding to nonprofits for treating affected individuals, optimizing resources, and focusing on effective care delivery.

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?

I've initiated a voter proposal for a public decision on a crucial issue, emphasizing the importance of democratic choice amid concerns of civil unrest. The mayor's plan to slash the city budget by $80 million threatens nonprofit funding and federal grants. His decision to cut 150 APD officers, reducing the force significantly, demands a public vote.

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

1. Full size Railroad Museum.

2. First Ever Mass Transit. Funding to reduce gridlock.

3. Double the size of our great Zoo.

4. Begin the funding for a tunnel under the Rio Grande. Tunnel funding will consist of the following funding sources: federal, state, Rio Rancho, Sandoval County, City of Albuquerque, Bernalillo County.

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

To elevate Albuquerque's quality of life, we'll focus on enhancing public safety, expanding health and wellness programs, and improving education. Initiatives include increasing green spaces, supporting local businesses, and investing in community services to ensure a vibrant, safe, and healthy environment for all residents.

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

To measure our success, we'll track reductions in crime rates, improvements in public health indicators, increased educational attainment levels, and higher resident satisfaction scores. Additionally, we'll monitor economic growth through local business performance and employment rates, ensuring our initiatives positively impact Albuquerque's overall well-being.

12. What differentiates you from your opponents?

My proven leadership distinguishes me from the competition. My journey began 2.5 years ago, driven by a deep dedication to Albuquerque. I am committed to seeing our beautiful city flourish once again. My approach is rooted in practical, community-focused solutions, setting me apart with a vision supported by tangible achievements.

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

I'm committed to ensuring the safety and efficiency of our fire rescue services. Under my leadership, there will always be two paramedics on every fire rescue mission, never just one. This policy is crucial for providing the best possible emergency response and care for the people of Albuquerque.

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?

Yes, $8,000 Paid

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