Many of you are aware of the meeting held with the Mayor yesterday. Below is a VERY condensed version of the feedback given at the meeting and attached are the full minutes. A huge thank you to Anne Daniel and Nancy Tonn Young for arranging the first of many Mayor Meetings.
1. Mayor "Mello" Rodriguez expressed honor in serving Boquete and shared his background in business and community service.
2. Preserving the natural beauty of Boquete is a priority, and all new construction must adhere to legal and environmental requirements.
3. Construction for the town center apartment block has been halted due to lack of proper permits, exceeding the two-story limit.
4. A recycling and education initiative is being developed to maintain cleaner streets, involving the expat community in strategy development.
5. Plans are underway to create additional creeks to reduce flooding risks during heavy rains along the Caldera River.
6. No new power line is confirmed from David to Boquete yet, but discussions are ongoing with Naturgy to resolve power issues.
7. Increased recycling access is planned for each community to manage the growing waste problem.
8. The Caldera trash dump is being addressed; excavation has begun, and better strategies are being developed to improve management.
9. Parking improvements are underway, with 67 new parking bays near the cemetery and additional spaces planned downtown.
10. Police checkpoint presence will be reinstated, and increased police presence will be seen in the evenings across all neighborhoods.
11. Residents are encouraged to follow the Mayor's social media for updates on projects and opportunities for involvement.
12. Community members are invited to collaborate on upcoming projects, such as the children's Christmas party.
13. A technical company has been appointed to address water disruptions on Volcancito Road; work begins on 4 October.
14. Water shortages in Alto Quiel are being addressed through negotiations with private companies that manage the water lines.
15. Events, including the annual flower fair, will be monitored for noise compliance with regulated decibel levels.
16. The Mayor's office is working to foster better integration between the expat community and local authorities.
17. The new hospital is 70% complete and will be operational within six months, offering various medical services.
18. A WhatsApp emergency number, monitored 24/7, is available for residents to report urgent issues: 6279 5672.
Regards
Karen Borain
