Shopkeepers in the heart of Ajijic were blindsided late last week when they discovered that a new construction project will put an Oxxo outlet practically at their doorsteps.

A local resident recently started up an online petition to increase the number of Ajijic parking spaces designated for the handicapped, with more than 800 signatures reportedly collected to date.

In an effort to mine a hidden treasure, the heads Chapala’s ecology, tourism and culture departments have convened representatives of local tourist boat operators, fishermen, restaurateurs and merchants to launch a joint rescue mission for the Isla de los Alacranes (Scorpion Island).

For most foreigners, coming to visit or settle in the Lake Chapala area is a positive experience. But troubles can arise.

Last week, Chapala Mayor Moisés Anaya announced that his administration is establishing the Unidad de Atención a Víctimas de Desapariciones (Uavide), a specialized program to provide legal guidance and psychological counseling for the families of missing persons.

The Chapala police department has re-qualified for a federal government funding package that will bring in six million pesos to upgrade its infrastructure, patrol fleet, equipment, officer training and crime prevention programs.