Mayor Diego Castañón Trejo presented his first government report this week, outlining initiatives in public security, health services, infrastructure, and environmental protection. The report, aligned with the principles of “Mexican humanism,” aimed to communicate the administration’s progress during the past year.

However, perspectives among residents of several Tulum communities show that some challenges persist, particularly in basic services, access to healthcare, and public safety.

Key Programs and Priorities

During the presentation, Mayor Castañón emphasized programs such as Blindaje Tulum and the investment in a new C4 security monitoring center. The municipal government also reported the opening of three health centers, expansion of public lighting with LED infrastructure, and actions to guarantee free access to beaches through the Parque del Jaguar.

The report also highlighted waste management efforts, including the removal of thousands of tons of sargassum, and confirmed the approval of a budget of 1.273 billion pesos for 2025, distributed among governance, social development, and economic growth.

According to municipal authorities, these efforts aim to balance the needs of residents and the demands of a growing tourist economy.

Community Perspectives and Reported Gaps

In contrast, residents from neighborhoods such as La Veleta, Tumben Ka’a, and Maya Pax have expressed concerns regarding limited access to basic services, including water, drainage, and consistent waste collection.

Community feedback indicates that some LED lights are non-operational, and trash collection services are occasionally disrupted due to mechanical failures. In certain cases, garbage accumulation has led to open-air burning, raising environmental concerns.

Public health services have also drawn attention. Although new health centers were inaugurated, some residents report a lack of medical personnel during evening shifts, along with limited access to medications and specialist care, often requiring travel to Playa del Carmen.

Improvements and Incidents

The municipality continues to invest in security infrastructure; however, incidents such as the March 2025 assassination of Security Secretary José Roberto Rodríguez Bautista and several reported homicides have contributed to a perception of insecurity in certain areas.

Data from the National Public Security System (SESNSP) indicate increases in homicide, extortion, and domestic violence reports during the current administration. Residents also point out that routine patrols tend to be concentrated in tourist zones, and little is publicly known about the operation of the new surveillance systems.

At the same time, several security strategies remain ongoing, and the full impact may require a longer evaluation period.

Access to Beaches and Environmental Management

The municipal government reported steps to protect and open beach access for the public, primarily through Parque del Jaguar, and reaffirmed its commitment to environmental sustainability, including sargassum collection and coastal conservation.

Nonetheless, some civil society organizations have noted that practical access remains limited in certain areas, and that tourism development continues to influence coastal use, raising concerns about ecosystem preservation and equitable use of public spaces.

Budget Structure and Social Investment

Of the approved 1.273 billion pesos for 2025, approximately 663 million pesos are allocated to operational and administrative expenses. This budget composition has raised questions among analysts and local observers about the proportion of funds available for direct infrastructure investment.

One of the main visible works reported by the government is the 1.5-kilometer coastal walkway, while some neighborhoods still experience delays in pavement and stormwater infrastructure projects.

In the education sector, the municipality reported initiatives to support scholarships and school improvements. However, clear metrics or investment details were not included in the report, and school conditions in some areas remain in need of maintenance and equipment upgrades.

Balancing Growth and Local Needs

Tulum’s economic expansion, supported by record tourism numbers and the recent opening of the International Airport, continues to attract investment and development. The airport alone received 417,000 international passengers in the first half of 2025, although the month of May reflected the seasonal volatility of arrivals.

While tourism is a key economic driver, residents and small businesses express the need for broader inclusion in the benefits of growth, especially in housing, health, and public infrastructure.

Outlook and Pending Issues

Tulum faces a complex scenario: urban expansion, environmental challenges, evolving security concerns, and persistent service needs. Mayor Castañón’s administration still has time in its term to address these priorities and align the official agenda with community expectations.

The annual report represents a comprehensive summary of government efforts. At the same time, it invites continued dialogue and accountability regarding the outcomes and impact on everyday life for the people of Tulum.

We’d love to hear your thoughts. Join the conversation on The Tulum Times’ social media.

What programs or areas would you prioritize in Tulum’s development plan?