The City of Albuquerque has once again taken a stand against unsafe hotel practices, issuing a Notice of Administrative Civil Enforcement and a substantial fine of $14,100 to the owners of the Extend a Suites & RV Park. This decision comes after a comprehensive inspection by City Code Enforcement, Albuquerque Fire Rescue, and the Environmental Health Department, which uncovered a multitude of violations that pose significant risks to both tenants and the surrounding community.
What makes this case particularly concerning is the history of non-compliance. The city had previously called out the property for operating an RV Park in violation of land use laws as early as 2020. Despite this warning, the property owners continued to flout regulations, leading to the recent inspection and subsequent enforcement action.
The inspection revealed a range of issues that are deeply troubling. In the RV Park section, the lack of adequate septic hookups and bathroom facilities was a major issue, forcing individuals to resort to unsanitary practices such as defecating outside or dumping human waste on the ground. This situation not only violates health and safety codes but also poses a significant risk to the environment and public health.
The hotel portion of the property was equally alarming. Plumbing issues were rampant, with nonfunctional toilets, sinks, and showers, leaking fixtures, unsanitary drainage, and inadequate hot water. Some rooms had no water at all, which is a critical failure that directly impacts the basic needs of guests.
Electrical hazards were another major concern. The hotel's wiring was damaged and deteriorating, with exposed conductors, missing electrical box covers, and damaged outlets. This situation not only poses a fire hazard but also endangers the health and safety of anyone staying at the property.
Fire code violations were also prevalent. Missing fire extinguishers, nonfunctional and missing smoke detectors, and improperly stored gas cylinders were all noted. These deficiencies significantly increase the risk of fire and make it difficult for guests to respond to emergencies.
The unsanitary conditions were equally disturbing. Water damage, mold, and infestations of bed bugs and cockroaches were all present, creating an environment that is not only uncomfortable but also potentially harmful to the health of guests and staff.
Finally, the property was found to have unpermitted construction, an expired business license, and a deficient Certificate of Occupancy. These violations further underscore the property's non-compliance with city regulations and highlight the need for immediate action to bring the property into compliance.
In my opinion, the City of Albuquerque's response to this situation is a necessary and appropriate step to protect the health, safety, and well-being of its residents and visitors. The property owners must take immediate action to address these violations and ensure that the property meets all applicable codes and regulations. Failure to do so could result in further enforcement actions and legal consequences.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining safe and compliant accommodations. It is a call to action for property owners to prioritize the safety and comfort of their guests and to ensure that their establishments meet all necessary standards. Only through strict adherence to these standards can we ensure that the hospitality industry remains a safe and welcoming environment for all.
