El Pitillal Could Become An Independent Municipality

Following the recent decision by Puerto Vallarta's Mayor, Luis Ernesto Munguía, to create two new delegations, dividing the Pitillal delegation into two parts and forming what would be the new Coapinole Delegation, residents chose not to wait for consultations and took to the streets in protest. After the protest, an idea emerged that has proven even more attractive to Pitillal's residents: becoming a new municipality in Jalisco. This proposal appears to have all the necessary components to move forward.

From Vallarta Today, we analyze the feasibility of the Pitillal delegation becoming independent from the municipality of Puerto Vallarta to establish itself as an autonomous municipality.

The outcome depends on several factors outlined in the Political Constitution of the State of Jalisco and the Law of Government and Municipal Public Administration of the State of Jalisco. Let’s examine the key aspects:

1. Constitutional and Legal Requirements

Article 7 of the Political Constitution of the State of Jalisco stipulates that creating a new municipality requires:

A minimum number of inhabitants: While the Constitution does not specify an exact number, other municipal reforms in the state consider a population of at least 25,000 as a reference.

Economic and administrative capacity: The region must prove it can sustain itself financially and provide the basic services required by law.

Citizen consultations: The participation of residents in the affected area is necessary, through referendums or public consultations.

The Law of Government and Municipal Public Administration further emphasizes that any territorial modification must account for the new municipality's ability to provide public services such as potable water, street lighting, waste collection, public safety, and education.

     2.Population of El Pitillal

El Pitillal is one of Puerto Vallarta's largest delegations, with an estimated population of 100,000, significantly exceeding the usual criteria for creating a municipality in Jalisco. This is a major advantage in favor of its independence.

      3.Economic Activities

El Pitillal has a diversified economy, including:

Commerce: The delegation is a major commercial hub with markets, street vendors, and established businesses attracting both locals and visitors.

Livestock and agriculture: Although not its primary economic driver, these activities persist in the delegation’s rural areas.

Small industry: Workshops and manufacturing businesses contribute to the local economy.

If it can be demonstrated that this economic activity generates sufficient revenue to sustain public services, the case for independence would be stronger.

      4.Financial and Administrative Challenges

The separation would involve significant costs:

Establishing a complete municipal administration, including a city hall, council, administrative, and operational areas.

Guaranteeing public services currently provided by Puerto Vallarta.

Possible reduction in financial and human resources from the parent municipality.

The new municipality would need to demonstrate the ability to manage a sufficient budget to meet these needs.

      5.Political and Social Procedures

The independence process requires:

A formal request to the Jalisco State Congress, supported by technical, social, and economic studies.

Congressional analysis: Assessing the impact on both El Pitillal and Puerto Vallarta.

Citizen consultations: Both Pitillal and Puerto Vallarta residents must participate in this process.

    6.Impact on Puerto Vallarta

Loss of resources: Puerto Vallarta would lose a significant portion of its population and economic activity.

Redefinition of boundaries: New territorial limits and service reorganizations would be necessary.

Conclusion

From a legal and economic perspective, the independence of El Pitillal is feasible if it can demonstrate a strong population and economic base, secure citizen support, and political will, while meeting all legal requirements established by the Constitution and local laws. However, the process is lengthy and depends on the willingness of the State Congress and the organizational capacity of Pitillal's residents and leaders to ensure an orderly transition.