Chemuyil Merchants Fight Unjust 300-Peso Fee by Local Official

Tulum, Mexico — A group of more than 35 local merchants and entrepreneurs in Chemuyil have denounced a monthly fee of 300 pesos imposed by municipal delegate Gilmer Vidal Torres Cervantes, alleging the charge lacks legal backing, transparency, or justification. The measure, introduced without prior notice, has sparked outrage among business owners who claim it disproportionately affects food and beverage vendors.

Fee Imposed Without Explanation or Visible Improvements

According to affected merchants—who requested anonymity for fear of retaliation—the delegate presented the fee as a voluntary contribution for “community improvements.” However, residents report no visible enhancements to public services or infrastructure in Chemuyil.

“He told us it was for improving the town, but the streets remain in poor condition, garbage collection is still inadequate, and not a single new lamp has been installed in the park,” said one disgruntled merchant.

The fee is applied per operating shift, meaning businesses operating both day and night must pay double—600 pesos monthly. This has forced some vendors to reduce working hours or raise prices to offset the additional cost.

Merchants Demand Transparency and Legal Action

Many of the affected businesses have operated in Chemuyil for years without facing such fees. Merchants describe the measure as arbitrary and suspect the funds are being misused.

“There are no official documents, receipts, or formal explanations. This seems more like a personal collection than a community contribution,” another merchant stated.

In response, the group is organizing to seek intervention from Tulum municipal authorities and the state government, calling the fee an abuse of power.

Official Remains Silent Amid Growing Discontent

As of publication, delegate Gilmer Vidal Torres Cervantes has not publicly addressed the origin, legality, or allocation of the collected funds, further fueling frustration among merchants.

Affected business owners have not ruled out legal action or peaceful protests if no clear resolution is provided. They demand transparency, accountability, and an immediate halt to what they call an “unfounded and unjust tax.”