**Tijuana to Undergo New Public Security Reality with 2025 Budget Approval: Mayor**
On November 4th, 2024, the Mayor of Tijuana, Ismael Burgueño Ruiz, announced a significant step forward in public security for the city. During a Municipal Security Strategic Cabinet meeting, he outlined the approved budget for the Secretariat of Citizen Security and Protection (SSPCM) for 2025, which totals nearly 1.97 billion pesos. Out of this, 1.22 billion pesos will be allocated to salaries and benefits, while 750.64 million pesos will go towards operational expenses and investments. This latter amount marks an increase of 381.52 million pesos from previous allocations.
“Tijuana will experience a new reality in public security. We are seeing unprecedented coordination and support from city council members. Together, we’ll strengthen our security framework, focusing significantly on crime prevention and community outreach efforts,” Burgueño Ruiz stated.
A substantial portion of the upcoming year’s budget will enhance equipment and technological resources aimed at bolstering intelligence operations and crime prevention efforts. This includes funding for police uniforms and protective gear, additional patrol vehicles, and security strategy training services. It also encompasses the acquisition of computer equipment, drones, and real-time surveillance cameras, particularly in areas currently lacking coverage. Moreover, a significant allotment of 509.61 million pesos is designated to reinforce the Fire Department.
The budget for SSPCM may potentially see further increase through federal allocations from the Municipal Strengthening Fund (FORTAMUN), which offers additional government resources. Burgueño Ruiz highlighted the excellent coordination among various government levels in improving the local environment and underscored the importance of an integrated effort for public security.
The mayor expressed gratitude for the trust vested in him by the city council members, reinforcing the focus on security, a key government priority. He reiterated his commitment to working towards peace and the well-being of the people of Tijuana.
**Secondary Article: Rising Crime Rates Continue to Challenge Tijuana**
While Tijuana is taking robust measures to improve its public security infrastructure, the city has been grappling with persistent crime rates. Recent reports indicate that the number of homicides from January to September 2024 reached 1,421, slightly higher than the 1,404 reported during the same period in 2023. This rise highlights the critical need for the strategic investments outlined in the newly approved budget.
Efforts are also underway to address ongoing education department issues in the city, with parents recently taking action by occupying the Secretariat of Education offices over concerns about administrative inefficiencies and delayed salaries for teachers.
Additionally, Tijuana is set to upgrade its public transportation services. Plans to replace small taxis with higher-capacity units aim to better meet the demands of the city’s growing population. The introduction of 10 new major routes is part of this initiative, which seeks to improve efficiency in the public transport system.
In another development, Baja California health institutions are encouraging residents to get vaccinated against seasonal influenza, Covid-19, and pneumococcal infections, with free vaccines available at public health centers across the state.
These comprehensive efforts reflect Tijuana’s commitment to improving safety, infrastructure, and overall quality of life for its residents, even as the city continues to face complex challenges.