By Rodd Cayton
Albuquerque City Councilors voted Monday night to approve a deal for a nonprofit organization that will help women experiencing homelessness make the transition into stable housing.
Approval of the professional services agreement with Chicanos Por La Causa was delayed two weeks after councilors sought more information about the organization’s current work.
Chicanos Por La Causa also provides services through the Gateway Network, operating Gateway West, the city’s largest shelter. The organization will be paid up to $1.8 million for providing housing navigation services to 50 women.
The agreement comes after the city received no bids from two responses to requests for proposals for the services.
City Ordinance 5-5-10 B allows the Central Purchasing Office or Capital Improvement Program to purchase goods or services on the open market at the best obtainable price, as long as project specifications are unchanged.
Councilor Nichole Rogers expressed frustration with the process, noting the city will cover personnel and operating costs. She said just $160,998 is listed as direct assistance to beneficiaries.
Rogers said it would probably be less expensive for the city to hire staff and run Gateway on its own accord.
“Our administration continues to contract out for the biggest issue facing the city of Albuquerque, which is homelessness,” she said, adding that the city maintains the Albuquerque Police Department rather than hire a security firm for that service.
The motion passed 8-1, with Councilor Dan Champine opposed.
“Gateway Center has become a hub for support and services where people can get the help they need,” Mayor Tim Keller said in a statement released after the City Council vote. “Because of strong partners like Chicanos Por La Causa, we will continue to help people get into housing, recovery, and stability.”
The agreement is for July 1 through June 30, 2026. City officials say Chicanos Por La Causa uses a “culturally competent, community-centered approach” that helps ensure services are accessible, equitable, and effective.
“CPLC is a valued community partner, and we look forward to them stepping into this new role to provide needed support for people on their journey to stability and housing,” said city Health, Housing, and Homelessness Director Gilbert Ramirez. “Thank you to the City Council for continuing to support our mission of uplifting the most vulnerable in our city.”