### How to Secure $78 Million
By José Galicot
September 9, 2024
Fifteen years ago, I was invited to a meeting at the State Water Commission. Attending out of respect for my friend, the director, I found myself among a colorful assembly of community leaders, engineers, business people, and regular attendees. Mid-meeting, I took a break to freshen up, only to return and discover I had been named president of a group with an unknown mission. Half-jokingly, I suggested we meet every Wednesday at 5 pm at the State Water Commission’s office to discuss our objectives.
As it turned out, the purpose was to secure grants from NADBANK to install a second pipeline from Tijuana to Playas de Tijuana. The existing pipeline was decrepit and prone to leaks, emitting a foul odor in surrounding areas.
To obtain the funds, fifty community sessions needed to be conducted, clearly explaining the project to gain citizen approval. American skeptics linked to NADBANK dismissed the idea, doubting that Mexicans would follow through with the meetings. This spurred me to prove them wrong. The dedicated committee—comprising community leaders, engineers, technicians, and business people—agreed on the strategy to conduct all meetings meticulously, documenting every detail through notes, videos, and recordings.
Our group diligently met every Wednesday, even on significant dates like Mother’s Day, to unanimous participation. After surpassing the required meetings, we conducted a final large-scale session at Morelos Park to present the project and collect approved surveys, overseen by the Autonomous University of Baja California.
When we arrived at 7 am amidst light rain, skeptical Americans predicted low attendance. But to their surprise, over 1,100 people showed up. Despite the rain, we explained the project under makeshift coverings. The survey indicated that 97% understood the project, and 93% approved of it. Our meticulous effort paid off, and six months later, the new sections of pipeline were installed, resolving the longstanding issues.
Five months later, I was once again invited to lead a similar committee. With the same team and dedication, we secured $60 million in funds to overhaul the outdated sewage and water systems in downtown Tijuana and the Zona Río area.
Throughout this journey, I was supported by friends like Héctor Lutteroth, who provided delicious Carl’s Jr. hamburgers at our meetings, and Enrique Mier y Terán, whose energy kept our spirits high.
Indeed, with determination, enthusiasm, discipline, and love for our city, we succeeded in securing $78 million.
José Galicot is a businessman based in Tijuana.
Email: [email protected]
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### Secondary Article: Addressing Water Infrastructure in Tijuana – The Journey Continues
The water infrastructure challenges in Tijuana have long been a point of contention, not only for local residents but also for environmentalists. Recognizing the need for substantial improvements, community leaders, engineers, and businesses have continued their efforts well beyond the initial $78 million secured for the Playas de Tijuana project.
**Recent Developments:**
1. **Modernization Initiatives:** In the past year, additional initiatives have been launched to modernize the city’s water infrastructure. These efforts are aimed at tackling issues such as water wastage, contamination, and inefficient distribution systems.
2. **Public-Private Partnerships:** Collaborative ventures between public entities and private enterprises are playing a pivotal role in these modernization projects. Through shared resources and expertise, these partnerships are expected to expedite the modernization processes and ensure long-term sustainability.
3. **Community Involvement:** Continuing the tradition of strong community involvement, local organizations and residents are actively participating in planning and oversight. Educational campaigns aimed at increasing awareness about water conservation and infrastructure maintenance are proving instrumental in garnering community support.
4. **Technological Innovations:** Adoption of advanced technologies such as smart water meters, leak detection systems, and automated controls are transforming the water management landscape in Tijuana. These innovations are expected to significantly reduce both operational costs and water loss, thereby enhancing efficiency.
**Future Prospects:**
As Tijuana continues on its path to infrastructural excellence, sustained efforts in securing funding, fostering community involvement, and leveraging modern technologies will be essential. With the combined dedication of various stakeholders, Tijuana is on its way to setting a benchmark for urban water management in the region.
Stay updated with the latest developments at TJGringo.com.
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This new and revised article provides a comprehensive overview of past accomplishments and ongoing efforts to improve water infrastructure in Tijuana.