**Update on Mexicali’s Public Lighting Tax Increase**
In a decision made with 12 votes in favor, 4 against, and 1 abstention, Mexicali’s municipal council has approved a significant change to the city’s income plan for the fiscal year 2025. The new budget, amounting to 6.6 billion pesos, includes a notable increase in the Public Lighting Tax (DAP), which will rise from 15 pesos to 25 pesos a month starting next year.
Roger Roberto Sosa Alafita, the municipal treasurer, justified this adjustment by stating it is necessary to ensure continued advancements in the city’s lighting infrastructure, which requires sustained investment. He highlighted that during 2024, the city has already gathered approximately 60 million pesos from the DAP and anticipates closing the year with about 70 million pesos in total collection.
Sosa Alafita emphasized that the current setup of the DAP is meant to cover service expenses. He noted, “Mexicali currently spends nearly 150 million pesos annually on public lighting. While we could legally charge up to 32 pesos per user, we remain below this threshold.” The city’s mayor, Norma Bustamante MartÃnez, pointed out that the DAP in Mexicali is among the lowest compared to other municipalities in Baja California.
However, those who opposed the increase, including several council members, voiced concerns over the fairness of raising the tax when many neighborhoods across the city still suffer from inadequate lighting, which impacts the quality of service provided.
**Additional Developments in Mexicali**
In related news, authorities in Mexicali have intensified night operations in the valley region to combat ongoing security challenges. Additionally, law enforcement has linked a local cell of the CDS to several criminal activities, including the arson of bars and clubs in the city. Furthermore, a recent tragic discovery was made in the Ejido Victoria area, with two young individuals found dead, prompting further investigations.
In other regional updates, council members in Ensenada have approved their own income plan adjustments, which include the leasing of 80 patrol vehicles to enhance local police capabilities. These moves reflect broader efforts in the region to address public safety and infrastructure needs, amid financial adjustments and community concerns.
For more updates and details on the developments in Mexicali and surrounding areas, stay tuned to TJGringo.com.