Municipalities Have Autonomy to Take Out Loans, Says Quintana Roo Lawmaker

Chetumal, Quintana Roo — Municipalities in Quintana Roo have the autonomy to take out loans without notifying the state congress, as long as the repayment period does not exceed three years, according to the president of the Congress’s Municipal Affairs Commission.

Deputy Saulo Aguilar Bernés said the 18th Legislature has not been notified about the financial situation of any municipality, including Playa del Carmen, which has reportedly taken out short-term loans to address liquidity problems. He also said lawmakers have not been informed whether any administrative proceedings have been initiated against those responsible for the financial issues.

“The Legislature only intervenes when the repayment period exceeds three years of the municipal administration. When the amount requested does not exceed a certain limit or the repayment term does not exceed that period, they are not required to notify Congress,” Aguilar explained.

Regarding the recent departure of Playa del Carmen’s treasurer, Aguilar said there may be reasons or investigations behind it, but the congress has not received any official notification about the municipality’s financial situation.

On the issue of sargassum seaweed affecting beaches, Aguilar said the problem is being addressed through a coordinated strategy between the federal government and the state government, led by the Mexican Navy. He said he was not aware whether the seaweed presence poses a risk to the upcoming tourist season, noting that hoteliers have not approached him about it.

“The governor has been very attentive to the issue and it is being followed up on a permanent basis,” he concluded.