In a City Council session that started later than scheduled, a wide range of community matters were addressed—from digital inclusion to water rights and urban development.
One of the key outcomes was the unanimous approval of a collaboration agreement to join the Jalisco State Digital Network. This initiative will provide free internet access in public spaces, starting with installations in schools, the UMA (Autonomous University of Madrid campus), and the City Hall. According to technician Mauricio González, the program is entirely state-funded, incurs no cost to the municipality, and does not involve the installation of new antennas—only the commitment to maintain existing infrastructure.
During the discussion, Councilwoman Marcia Bañuelos inquired about costs and staff availability, prompting the clarification that the program is managed and executed entirely by the state government.
Also approved was the adoption of the Municipal Performance Advisory Guide for the 2024–2027 administration. Developed by the National Institute for Federalism and Municipal Development (INAFED), the guide aims to strengthen local governance by helping municipalities operate in a more organized, efficient, and goal-oriented way. Municipal Development Director Juan Pablo García Castillón will serve as the program liaison.
The council greenlit the official call for entries to the 2025 edition of the “Puerto Vallarta Award,” to be presented during a special City Council session on May 31 in honor of the city’s 57th anniversary and the municipality’s 107th.
Councilwoman Karla Rodríguez successfully proposed making Jilguero Street in the Los Sauces neighborhood a one-way street, citing safety concerns around nearby schools. Councilwoman Bañuelos recommended that a traffic study and proper signage accompany the change.
Another notable resolution was the approval of Councilwoman Laurel Carrillo Ventura’s request to instruct Seapal Vallarta not to completely shut off water to low-income households for non-payment. Instead, the council urged the utility to explore regularization alternatives and ensure a basic daily supply of 50 to 100 liters per person, in line with the human right to water.
However, not all proposals gained approval. A request by Mayor Luis Munguía to enter into an agreement with Tribus Capital—a non-regulated financial company (Sofom ENR)—to offer payroll-based loans to municipal employees was met with skepticism. Council members expressed concerns about the company’s high interest rates, lack of transparency, and the legal implications of payroll deductions. The matter was ultimately referred to relevant committees for further review.
In urban development matters, the council authorized the removal of the Medina Ascencio monument at the Las Juntas intersection to make way for a new overpass. Mayor Munguía also confirmed that the iconic Puerto Vallarta Maxiletters, temporarily taken down due to the interchange project, remain protected as part of the city’s Municipal Heritage.