-Editorial
In a special meeting held on December 11, Calexico ushered in a historic moment as five newly elected city councilmembers took the oath of office. Victor Legaspi, Lorenzo Calderon, Lisa Tylenda, Adriana Marquez, and Diana Nuricumbo began their terms, marking only the second time in Calexico’s history that the council has undergone a complete turnover. Notably, for the first time, the city council boasts a female majority, an inspiring step forward in gender representation.
While this fresh start offers hope, it also places immense pressure on the new council to address the long-standing issues that have plagued Calexico’s governance. For years, the city has been embroiled in allegations of corruption, inefficiency, and a lack of transparency, leading to public distrust and stagnation in local development. The recent successful recall of two councilmembers over inefficiency served as a powerful reminder that elected officials are accountable to the people they serve.
The new council will have little time to prove their commitment to transparency, efficiency, and fairness. Their performance will be closely scrutinized, as will their ability to move past Calexico’s troubled legacy and chart a new course for progress.
Victor Legaspi outlined a focused agenda aimed at business growth, community collaboration, and bolstering essential services. His priorities include hiring qualified directors for key city departments and expanding emergency services, including a potential third fire station. “My plan is to continue to have that open door and make sure that we don’t shut our doors on anyone,” he emphasized, advocating for community involvement in the council’s initiatives.
Adriana Marquez stressed unity among councilmembers and prioritizing public safety as her top goals. She also aims to address the city’s infrastructure and attract businesses and housing developments to boost revenue. Marquez expressed pride in the female majority on the council, stating, “I feel like we three have a great background, so we bring a lot to the table… We’re making that change and being role models for future generations.”
Diana Nuricumbo’s focus is on hiring a city manager and reforming the business permitting process to attract both large and small enterprises. “We’re definitely going to streamline the permitting process, so that we’re not making it difficult for new businesses, big and small, to come in,” she shared.
Lorenzo Calderon, transitioning from the school board, has set his sights on revitalizing the city. “My first priority is to clean Calexico,” Calderon said. “When I say clean, I mean our communities, downtown, and anything that has to do with Calexico.” He also emphasized his commitment to improving parks and public spaces.
Lisa Tylenda, the only councilmember to deliver a formal speech after being sworn in, conveyed gratitude and a sense of duty. “Calexico is my hometown, where I am raising my family and where my heart belongs,” she said. “I am committed to working tirelessly to bring in the changes we need and deserve.”
Despite their individual visions, the council’s collective challenge lies in breaking free from the city’s history of governance failures. From corruption scandals to unfinished projects, Calexico’s elected officials have often struggled to meet the needs of its residents. This council, however, faces unprecedented expectations to restore faith in local government.
While the female majority is a milestone to celebrate, it underscores the urgency for this council to deliver. Their attitude, performance, and decisions in the coming months will reveal whether they can rise to the occasion or fall short like many before them. The people of Calexico have sent a clear message: elected officials must serve with integrity, efficiency, and fairness.
This is a defining moment for Calexico. The actions—or inactions—of this council will determine whether this new era of leadership can truly pave the way for a brighter future or become another chapter in the city’s troubled history.
