Committee approves planning funds for Sawmill community land trust development
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Summary
Senate Bill 232, a request to fund master planning and site planning for permanently affordable housing on undeveloped Sawmill District land in partnership with the Sawmill Community Land Trust, received a 7–1 due‑pass recommendation after sponsors said the project would preserve long‑term affordability in a rapidly developing neighborhood.
Senate Bill 232 would provide state support for master planning and site planning for permanently affordable housing on undeveloped parcels in Albuquerque’s Sawmill District, working with the Sawmill Community Land Trust. The Senate Health and Public Affairs Committee voted to advance the bill with a 7–1 due‑pass recommendation.
Why it matters: The Sawmill District has seen significant market development (hotels, market‑rate housing, retail) and testimony emphasized the Land Trust’s role in preserving permanently affordable units on community‑held land through limited‑equity ownership or renewable long‑term ground leases.
Testimony Sponsor testimony explained the Land Trust model: the nonprofit retains ownership of the land while homeowners own improvements and receive a renewable long‑term lease (commonly 99 years) that keeps resale prices affordable through a resale formula. Housing New Mexico and city representatives supported the planning appropriation as a way to enable an affordable shared‑equity, multi‑generational ownership model in a high‑demand neighborhood.
Action The committee approved the bill by roll call and forwarded it with a due‑pass recommendation.