Mayor Keller, city officials hold briefing on public safety, senior affairs during coronavirus outbreak

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – Mayor Tim Keller and Albuquerque city leaders held another briefing on Friday, March 19 regarding the city’s response to the coronavirus outbreak. Friday’s briefing highlighted public safety, senior affairs, and several other issues.

The FDA is granting guidance that allows distilleries to produce hand sanitizer. KRQE News 13 reported earlier this week that Broken Trail Brewery and Distillery is currently making sanitizer for the Albuquerque Police Department.

The PresNow location on Coors is the hospital’s current COVID-19 testing site. While the city is anticipating to have an additional site available at Balloon Fiesta Park, it is not currently open. KRQE News 13 has a map and list of testing sites in New Mexico.

Albuquerque Animal Welfare is now operating on an appointment-only status. Those with inquiries on adoption and becoming a foster are asked to call the facilities to schedule an appointment.

Public Safety

All community police substations are currently open. The public is encouraged to submit anything that you can online or by using the phone reporting program.

Several substations are currently taking donations for seniors. The Department of Senior Affairs is asking for donations of necessary items such as shelf-stable food and toilet paper.

New Mexico’s appellate, district, metropolitan, and magistrate courts remain open. The Supreme Court has issued an order that extends the payment of fines and fees for 30 days during this time of public health emergency.

Albuquerque Police Department Chief Mike Geier announced that at this time no officers have tested positive for coronavirus. He also stated that the department has increased its presence at big box stores due to the heightened demand from customers at those locations.

The public is urged to only use 911 for emergencies. Dispatchers are asking those who call if they are displaying symptoms or signs of COVID-19.

You can make a report to the police over the phone by calling 505-768-2030. Referencing the shooting death of a juvenile by his cousin in the city on Thursday, Chief Geier urged the public to lock up their guns.

Albuquerque Fire Rescue Chief Paul Dow stated that currently, the department does not have any firefighters that have tested positive for COVID-19. Chief Dow reiterated that 911 is for life-threatening emergencies.

For issues regarding health-related questions about the coronavirus call 1-855-600-3453. For questions regarding school closures, job issues, etc. call 1-833-551-0518.