🌱 Electric Bus Funding Granted + House Bill Takes On Theft In City

Hi Albuquerque! Like many of you, the Patch staff will be taking some time off for the Fourth of July. I’ll be back in your inbox after the holiday, but until then, here’s what’s happening in town today.

But first, your local weather:

• Monday: Mostly sunny. High: 96 Low: 68.
• Tuesday: Mostly sunny and very warm. High: 96 Low: 69.

From our sponsor:

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Here are the top three stories today in Albuquerque:

1. Albuquerque is making progress toward its goal of electrifying its bus fleet with the help of $18.2 million in federal funding. The funds will be used to purchase 20 new electric buses, replacing diesel-powered ones. The city aims to achieve a 100 percent renewable and sustainable future, and the transition to renewable fuel is part of that vision. Additionally, other cities in New Mexico, such as Española, Taos, and the North Central Regional Transit District, will receive funds for bus facility modernization and the purchase of hybrid-electric buses as part of the statewide initiative. (Albuquerque Journal)
2. Albuquerque is taking steps to combat shoplifting in the city by implementing House Bill 234, which treats shoplifting over $500 as a felony. Repeat offenders will face additional charges based on the total value of stolen goods accumulated within a 90-day period, regardless of the store. The city is also increasing surveillance by installing more cameras, starting with the Uptown area, to aid in transit safety and provide video evidence for convicting shoplifters. Recent efforts have resulted in 45 arrests and citations, with $15,000 worth of stolen merchandise recovered. (KRQE News 13)
3. Albuquerque Fire Rescue (AFR) is actively educating the public about the dangers and illegality of fireworks. Certain areas in Albuquerque, including the Foothills, bosque, and open spaces, are under Stage 1 fire restrictions, prohibiting any fires. AFR warns that using illegal fireworks within city limits can result in fines up to $500 and 90 days in jail, urging residents to report violations through the CABQ 311 app, website, or by calling 311 to avoid overwhelming phone lines. (KOB 4)

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Today and tomorrow in and around Albuquerque:

Monday, July 3

• Duplicate Bridge Games At Duke City Bridge Club (12:30 PM)
• Survivors Writing Together At UNM Cancer Center (2:30 PM)

Tuesday, July 4

• Fourth Of July Fam Fest At 2469 Corrales Road, Corrales (11:30 AM)
• Freedom 4th Festival At Balloon Fiesta Park (3:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• The 2022 MVP and fan favorite is back in Albuquerque! Wynton Bernard is officially back on the Isotope roster. (Albuquerque Isotopes via Instagram)
• On Friday, the Santa Fe Police Department held a promotion ceremony for Senior Police Officers Larissa Rocha, Dianna Conklin, John Garcia, and Richard Johnson to the rank of sergeant. Patrol Sgts. Patrick Trujillo, Heinz De Luca, and Roberto Rodriguez were promoted to lieutenant. Additionally, Lt. Thomas Grundler was promoted to captain. Chief Paul Joye and Mayor Alan Webber expressed their appreciation and congratulations to all the promoted personnel. (Santa Fe Police Department via Facebook)
• The Santa Fe Brewing Company is showing off its new release available throughout New Mexico. Slightly Social is a wheat beer with a hint of orange and tangerine and has a 5.6 percent ABV — perfect for a warm summer day. (Santa Fe Brewing Company via Instagram)

You're officially in the loop for today. See you all soon for another update!

— Michelle Paul

About me: Michelle Paul is a Utah-based writer and photographer with a professional background in content management and registered nursing. When not working on projects ranging from photo editing to copywriting, they enjoy traveling, video games, and expanding their skills.