Residents of Tecate Demand Closure of Waste Transfer Center: “The Mayor Should Keep His Word”
Residents of Tecate, particularly those living in the Guajardo neighborhood, are demanding the immediate closure of a local waste transfer center. According to one neighbor, the unbearable stench and the presence of pests like rats and cockroaches have made life untenable, leading to deteriorating property values and health issues such as stomach and vision problems. The site, which reportedly piles up to 100 tons of waste at times, lacks adequate waste separation programs, receiving daily between 180 to 200 tons of mixed trash.
The escalating issue has worsened with the change in municipal administration. Mayor Román Cota admitted there is currently no designated area for waste disposal but assured residents that the city is working rapidly to secure the necessary permits for a new sanitary landfill. Despite this, Cota’s promise to close the transfer center within his first 100 days has not been fulfilled, as more than 150 days have already passed.
Due to frequent fires within the site, residents argue that they cannot even enjoy simple outdoor activities. To address the waste issue, the municipal government has introduced a charge for garbage collection as part of the property tax. One of the center’s walls recently collapsed, injuring a worker and prompting the mayor to order a temporary suspension of operations and subsequent demolition of unsafe structures. This move has been seen as a step toward addressing safety concerns but fails to resolve the core problem.
Residents continue to urge Mayor Cota to honor his original commitment, expressing frustration with the ongoing delays and persistent pollution affecting their community.
**Related Update**
Plans for Improved Waste Management System in Tecate to Begin February
In an effort to tackle the escalating waste problem in Tecate, the city officials have announced the rollout of an improved waste collection route set to commence in February in the Maclovio Rojas area. The new system is designed to enhance the efficiency of waste collection and mitigate the environmental impact caused by existing facilities. This initiative forms part of a broader strategy to transition toward more sustainable waste management practices in the region.
This development comes amidst ongoing local tension surrounding the current waste transfer site in the Guajardo neighborhood, indicating the city’s commitment to finding long-term solutions. This shift aims to alleviate residents’ concerns and improve quality of life, though patience remains thin as citizens await tangible improvements.