FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 14, 2017
Media Contact:
Jessica Johnson
Jessica@apvnm.org
505-220-6656
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – In Albuquerque’s upcoming Mayoral election, the City has an opportunity to bring new strategies and renewed energy to address significant animal issues. As the leading political voice for New Mexico voters, Animal Protection Voters (APV) proudly announces its endorsement of Tim Keller for Mayor of Albuquerque.
“Tim Keller is the best candidate to represent Albuquerque voters who care about the humane treatment of companion animals and urban wildlife,” said Jessica Johnson, chief legislative officer for APV. “Keller has a proven track record of supporting public policies that help animals, particularly where they intersect with important issues like crime, public health and safety, and transparent governance.”
During his tenure in the Senate, Keller earned a 100% Lifetime Score in APV’s Scorecards, demonstrating his knowledge of the link between humane treatment of animals and the health and safety of communities. As a state senator, Keller supported legislation to strengthen penalties for violating state animal cruelty laws; provide protective vests for police dogs; invest in care for abused and homeless dogs, cats, and horses; and promote humane management and coexistence with urban wildlife.
Keller has also stayed aware of four independent investigations that exposed disturbing problems within the City of Albuquerque Animal Welfare Department, and is prepared with ideas to confront these challenges head-on to bring lasting change to this important city service.
In particular, Keller has pledged to tackle much-needed reforms of the Albuquerque Animal Welfare Department—the city agency that houses lost and surrendered animals at two city facilities, which has faltered in recent years, ignoring serious public safety issues and failing to address adequately Albuquerque’s pet overpopulation. His detailed proposed approach includes utilizing fairer hiring practices to bring in the best-qualified department leadership and staff, reforming financial practices and budget structures to improve cost accounting, requiring full disclosure to adopters, expanding and improving low-cost spay/neuter and trap-neuter-return programs, and strengthening animal control officer training and operations.
“Keller has demonstrated a unique perspective and genuine commitment to improving the lives and welfare of animals—and the families who care about them—in Albuquerque,” said Johnson. “We encourage voters to cast their ballot on October 3rd for this leader whose dedication to animal issues will ensure city policies reflect the community’s humane values.”
Animal Protection Voters issues endorsements based on candidates’ records and positions on animal protection issues revealed in questionnaire responses, and not based on party affiliation.
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About Animal Protection Voters
Founded in 2002, Animal Protection Voters is the leading legislative and political advocacy organization for animal protection in New Mexico. Powered by grassroots supporters, its mission is to:
- Actively promote and support animal-friendly legislation at the state, federal, and local levels;
- Build an effective political voice for animal advocacy in New Mexico; and
- Hold New Mexico’s elected officials accountable on animal issues.
For more information about Animal Protection Voters’ accomplishments, current priority issues, and annual scorecards, please visit www.apvnm.org, and be sure to follow Animal Protection Voters on Facebook and Twitter.
[EDIT: This release previously incorrectly stated that Keller conducted investigations into the Albuquerque Animal Welfare Department. It was been corrected to state that he has stayed aware of the investigations.]
