October 2025 Meeting Minutes

6:30pm | Preservation Station | Bonnie Anderson presiding

Vacant Properties

David Blanc reported that he was holding his vacant lot across from the Grove on Walter for a future homesite for his family. His vacant lot at 501 Central, across from the Special Collections library, is being targeted for a condominium development, still in the planning stages. Finally, David reported that his vacant lot at 601 Central, across Central from the Grove, is still planned for a mixed-income apartment building. He stated the City informed him of potential access to $2.2 million in funding through MFA and state programs to leverage financing for that site. David emphasized that both Central projects are intended to promote neighborhood reinvestment and address the shortage of mid-priced, owner-occupied housing.

Central Underpass

Carlos Michelen reported construction has been delayed by the discovery of an asbestos pipe that must be removed by specialized contractors. The west-side ramp is approved and under construction; the east-side ramp remains under state review. The project is now expected to be completed by spring 2026.

Community Events

Krista Smith, Sultan of Community Engagement, reviewed upcoming events. If you are interested in helping with community outreach and social media engagement, please contact Krista at kristanuttallsmith@comcast.net

Pumpkin Carving & Story Night

Wednesday, October 29, 6:30–9:00 p.m. at Preservation Station. Co-leads: Danny and Chris. Activities include pumpkin carving and painting; participants need to bring their own pumpkins. Tools will also be available for those who don’t have their own tools. David Blanc donated $250 in neighborhood gift cards for contest prizes. Residents are encouraged to share ghost or historic stories during the event.

Holiday Party

Saturday, December 13, 6–8 p.m. at the Albuquerque Press Club. Planning committee: Sally, Fiona, Lizzie, Nick, Chris, and Danny. Event will feature food, music, and community celebration.

Neighborhood-Wide Garage Sale

Targeting March or April 2026. Lead: Glen. Options include individual home sales and/or centralized booths (at Preservation Station). Contact Glen at grluppnow@gmail.com if you are interested.

Jane’s Walks

To return in May 2026; volunteers will be recruited in the spring.