### Historic Debt Paid Off in Tijuana, Confirms Official
The historic debt inherited by the municipality of Tijuana, which exceeded 180 million pesos, has been completely settled during the XXIV City Council, confirmed the Chief Administrative Officer, Marcelo de Jesús Machain Servín, during the third Government report.
“We inherited a debt exceeding 180 million pesos. The reality is that the first year and part of the next was dedicated to paying off that inheritance,” he explained.
The debt was divided among BBVA, Banorte, and Banobras banks. Machain Servín mentioned that speculation about whether the debt had been fully paid might have arisen because Banobras operated through a trust, which had to be canceled for the payment to be validated, causing delays. “It is now fully paid off, these aren’t urban legends,” he confirmed.
He also highlighted that the XXV City Council would have a minimum of 25% of the budget allocated to avoid financial issues at the beginning of their administration, as a result of sound finances.
The success in settling the debt was primarily credited to Raymundo Vega, the former head of the Municipal Treasury. A budget modification table reflecting shifts in various financial allocations was also presented.
Key budget reallocations included:
– 495,312.82 pesos from workforce reorganization and resource reorientation to cover benefits for other spending units.
– 134,710,092.47 pesos reallocated for payment of employer contributions for trusted and temporary staff across various units.
– 262,680,331.47 pesos redirected to cover ISSSTECALI deficit.
– 2,231,574.25 pesos for workforce reorganization.
– 9,000,000.00 pesos for overtime and holiday pay in response to SDTUA needs.
– 46,915,154.24 pesos reduced from Chief Administrative Office allocation to pay benefits, reorganize workforce, and adjust general working conditions across different spending units.
### Police Salary Increase
Regarding the salary increase requested by police officers, Machain Servín pointed out that 50 million pesos are authorized for distribution through FORTAMUN. However, this increase only applies to active-duty officers, numbering 134, who will earn a monthly salary of 18,000 pesos.
“There are complex regulations governing police officers. They fall under the State Security Law, derived from the Federal Security Law, which defines them, like firefighters, as trusted employees. They do not qualify for permanent positions or many benefits,” he explained.
As per this law, only active officers will receive the allocated funds. He emphasized that the lack of higher earnings is not arbitrary but due to legal constraints, although efforts are made to support those seeking medical attention.
### Acquisitions and Improvements
Approximately 2,771 purchase requests were authorized by the Chief Administrative Office with the most significant requests coming from the Municipal Public Services Directorate and the Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection. Notable acquisitions for the Tijuana Fire Department included oxygen masks, two backhoes, 4×4 pickup trucks, basket cranes, a tanker, sweepers, and a Mobile Command Center for Civil Protection.
Regarding the central dome, it was stated that, after 37 years without modifications and based on conclusions from Civil Protection and the College of Engineers, intervention was necessary with a budget of 34,540,000 pesos. It is expected to be ready for the next administration.
Land recovery efforts were also mentioned, with properties in Real de San Francisco and Cerro de las Abejas already recuperated and 22 more cases pending resolution.
### Additional News
**Tijuana Reaches Debt-Free Milestone**
As of September 2024, Tijuana has officially cleared its public debt, a remarkable achievement given the initial 180 million pesos debt inherited. Interim reports indicate strategic fiscal management played a pivotal role in attaining this objective.
**Police Forces Stand to Benefit**
In related news, Tijuana police officers are set to receive a salary increment financed through the FORTAMUN fund, which now stands at 50 million pesos. However, this will cater exclusively to approximately 134 active-duty officers, raising their remuneration to a monthly 18,000 pesos.
**Reallocation Success**
Reorganization and efficient resource reallocation amounted to considerable savings, helping Tijuana reallocate over 262 million pesos towards crucial benefits for various public service employees.
**Infrastructure Developments Continue**
The notable commitment of the current administration includes substantial investments in infrastructure, such as advanced firefighting equipment and refurbishing the central dome, reinforcing Tijuana’s preparedness and civic amenities.
Stay tuned for further updates on TJGringo.com, your source for the latest news in Tijuana and beyond.