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September 2024
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Update on Westside Speeding and Lighting
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As many HOA members are aware, the Seven Bar HOA Board has expressed concerns to the City of Albuquerque regarding problems created by the expansion of Westside Blvd. Many more people are using Westside since the expansion to four lanes. Unfortunately, many of them are speeding. The expansion also included a large number of new streetlights. These lights are not properly shielded according to law to prevent excessive light from shining onto the properties that abut Westside. Because of homeowner complaints about these problems, the HOA Board decided to give additional voice to these homeowners by petitioning the City to address these problems. We researched the speeding and light pollution issues, and circulated a petition requesting speed cameras on Westside (there are currently 20 such cameras on city roadways), and calling for shields or hoods for the streetlights that comply with state and local laws. We gave the petition to Mayor Keller and Councilor Lewis on May 28, 2024.
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This is an update on the City’s response so far. In our May 2024 Newsletter we reported on all traffic stops on Westside by the APD Northwest Area Command between November 2023 and early March 2024. We have recently been provided with new information about traffic stops that specifically involve speeding citations. From the beginning of this year through July 31, 2024, there have been 220 speeding citations issued. This was only for traffic going east on Westside, which the City claims is all they are responsible for. Traffic going west is said to be the responsibility of Rio Rancho, and we do not have their figures on any speeding citations issued.
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HOA Compliance Michael McGuffin, Compliance Manager
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* For more details on sidewalk maintenance, please read post on our website:
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Mosquitos Although summer is now waning, we still have hot days ahead. Mosquitoes have been problematic this summer, with many residents complaining that they have not been able to enjoy their yards fully because of this pesky nuisance. Please do your part to minimize the presence of mosquitoes in your yard and your neighbors’ yards. First and foremost, do not leave standing or stagnant water outside. Empty toddler swimming pools when not in use. Get rid of any empty cans, bottles, and empty containers in your yard. Don’t overwater plants and lawns. Clean out your gutters to remove debris and standing water. And, of course, keep your yard clean to avoid providing a breeding ground under dead leaves. Enjoy the remaining summer days!
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A raccoon infestation has been reported by one of our Seven Bar North homeowners. Unfortunately, the City of Albuquerque does not provide a service for capturing raccoons. Keep in mind that raccoons can
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cause damage to your yard/home, carry disease, and may become aggressive. According to the City of Albuquerque website, raccoons are a common and widespread wildlife species in Albuquerque. Seeing a raccoon does not mean you have a raccoon problem. Most sightings do not require any action. Take steps to discourage the animals from visiting your property, including:
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- Removing attractants—food, water, garbage, etc.
- Feeding pets inside
- Make changes to your yard such as eliminating brush piles & debris, trimming bushes, etc.
- Ensure that entrances to structures are secured
If you suspect a raccoon may be injured, sick, or if you have a raccoon that requires removal, please contact the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish at (505) 222-4700. Only nuisance animals may be removed.
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Personal Postings on HOA signs
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We have been asked to remind HOA residents that signs – and mailboxes – in the neighborhoods should not be used for personal postings such as lost dog/cat, garage sale announcements, and the like. There are multiple venues which are more appropriate and will reach more people. NextDoor and Facebook Marketplace are two possibilities.
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Postings attached to signs and mailboxes are frequently left up until they are in tatters which gives the neighborhood an unattractive appearance. Please be respectful of your neighbors.
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