Albuquerque business owners will now be required to have a business license but their costs will stay the same.
Councilors Monday night approved a proposal from Mayor Tim Keller’s office to shift from a business registration system to one that issues licenses.
Keller’s administration proposed replacing the current system because it does not allow the city to shut down businesses it deems out of compliance. With a licensing system, city officials can enforce stricter guidelines and ensure businesses comply with local and state laws.
Councilor Brook Bassan, who sponsored the bill at the mayor’s office’s request, said implementing a new system is crucial because while registration is required, not all businesses register and the only penalty is a $10 fee.
“We would be able to have a more accurate database of businesses in Albuquerque,” Bassan said. “We would be able to ensure that businesses conducting in Albuquerque are following the ordinances and the rules.”
The original proposal would have increased the cost for business owners but that idea was shot down in a City Council committee last month. Business owners will now be required to pay an annual $35 license fee — the price they currently pay for registration.