Outgoing Chapala Mayor Jesus Cabrera did not make a mark for dazzling high-profile public works carried out during his administration, but rather for the slew of modest infrastructure projects benefiting many of his working-class constituents, a point that he highlighted in his final state-of-the-municipality address (informe) delivered on September 15.
Local political pundits expect that he’ll commonly be remembered as “Chuy Calles” in reference to widespread street improvements carried out in neighborhoods largely lying out of the public eye.
Cabrera carved some space in his speech to recognize the troubled times the community endured during his 33-month term of office, lamenting the city government’s strapped finances and, more pointedly, lamenting lives lost to a wave of criminal violence.
On the eve of his departure, the mayor granted the Reporter a one-on-one interview to reflect on his experiences as chief executive.
What are the most transcendent accomplishments during your term?
I consider it a great privilege to have had the opportunity to serve the people of Chapala and hope that I haven’t let them down, particularly the segment living with the most pressing needs. We worked on projects in every one of the delegations, devoting a lot of attention to fixing up streets and creating recreational areas that benefit families living in the long forgotten corners of the community. We also improved tourism infrastructure with the renovations of the Milagrosa Park and the Acapulquito restaurant zone, the Malecon improvements in San Antonio and in Ajijic. Also full installation of underground wiring and removal of utility poles along the full length of Avenida Madero which we expect will be completed by the end of the week.
What was the greatest challenge you faced?
Public security was the greatest hurdle and our biggest headache. It wasn’t a topic of popular demand during the campaign, but events we couldn’t anticipate quickly forced us to make this a priority issue. The loss of tranquility had huge impact on local commerce, employment and the well-being of the people.
Are there pending matters you leave behind?
I feel satisfied for having fulfilled 95 percent of our campaign promises, but there are some things we weren’t able to do, mostly due to hold-ups in state and federal financing. We had planned to renovate the Chapala plaza and La Cristiania Park, as well as contributing more towards the spectacular remodeling of the Ajijic plaza. Funds that were to be released in March have yet to arrive. The money could come in as soon as next month, and I expect my successor will pick up where we left off.
Any recommendations for the new mayor?
That’s a tricky question. Everyone has their own vision and way of doing things. If I could suggest one thing it would be to stay close to the people, be attentive to their concerns and maintain an even balance between social programs and public works.
Finally, what’s next in your own life?
First off I’ll take off with my lovely wife for a full week’s vacation. Then I’ll get back to running the family business. We’re planning to open a new (plumbing supply) outlet. I have the great honor of being named to act as godfather for the next graduating class at the Instituto Technologico, so that’s also on my fall agenda.