Mayor's Corner

The office of Mayor Jorge Maldonado

On Saturday, January 28, 2023 we collaborated with the Nogales Buffalo Soldiers Legacy Association to bring the first Anniversary and Historic Salute to the Nogales Buffalo Soldiers.   Events held were: A tribute at the Nogales Cemetery with the Veterans' Salute presented by The Fort Color Guard and Calvary, a historical presentation at City Hall and an exhibit at Pimeria Alta Historical Society Museum.  Mayor Maldonado addressed the audience commenting about the time he grew up around this area.   There was also a reenactment by the Buffalo Soldiers and the Nogales High School performances.  We want to thank Donna Jackons -Houston, President and Founder of Nogales Buffalo Soldiers Legacy Association.  

We are proud to announce the formation of a Youth Commission for the City of Nogales.  This program is designed to give students the opportunity to interact regularly with the Mayor, Council Members, and City Staff in order to gain an understanding of the inner workings of city government and to participate in community service opportunities.   A number of activities and issues will also be explored and developed by the Youth Commission in order to promote positive youth relations within the City of Nogales.  This endeavor entails a substantial amount of research into current city issues as well as improving the quality of life in Nogales.

Many projects are in progress, from paving streets to working with ADOT to correct necessary issues. Please do not hesitate to contact me at any time as we continue to do our best to make Nogales a better place to live. Santa Cruz County Schools were honored with a proclamation certificate in recognition of Early Childhood Awareness Month. We are always concerned about the well-being of the children in our community.

Border Eco extends its warm congratulations to Mayor Jorge Maldonado on his recent election victory. We are honored to work with such a distinguished leader and look forward to the positive impact he will have on the community. Mayor Maldonado brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table, and we are confident that he will be a great asset to the community. We are excited to collaborate with him and his office to help keep the community informed. 

Mayor Jorge Maldonado is known for his active roles in the produce industry and the Nogales National Little League. He works closely with the county, state, federal and Mexican communities governments to build a strong alliance between the city and county. He has plans for a collaborative and transparent municipal government, and he supports small businesses and all city residents. He wants a cleaner Nogales, including clean streets, and he will work to turn on city lights throughout the city. He proposes CPR classes for everyone, and will publicize his schedule. He will strive to promote a close relationship between city leaders and constituents, and he thinks it's important to show the community what he does for them and where their money goes.

The role of the mayor in a city can be both challenging and rewarding. As the leader of the city, the mayor sets the vision and direction for the community. This can be a daunting task, as there are often many voices and opinions that need to be considered. However, it is also an incredibly rewarding experience to see a city come together and thrive under strong leadership. One of the most significant aspects of being a successful mayor is having a clear vision for the future of the city. This means understanding the challenges that the city faces and developing creative solutions to address them. It also requires working closely with other city leaders and stakeholders to ensure that everyone is on board with the plan. 

Having a strong vision can be the difference between a city that stagnates and one that thrives. Being a mayor is not an easy job, but it can be extremely rewarding. It provides an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of those who live in the community. It also comes with its share of challenges, but these can be overcome with strong leadership and a clear vision for the future.

Electing a mayor is an important responsibility for the future of your community. By establishing coalitions, securing political support, and championing public policy initiatives, the mayor is able to provide a new vision for the city. In other words, mayors are responsible for ensuring that cities are safer, more prosperous, and environmentally responsible.

It is the mayor's responsibility to represent and protect the interests of the citizens of a city by managing the government, providing basic services, and improving the well-being of its citizens. The position of mayor can be both challenging and rewarding. It offers valuable experience in dealing with a wide range of people while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

Hello friends, 

There has been a lot of activity and productivity this month. The Sisterhood agreement that was enacted in 2011 between sister cities of Nogales Sonora and Nogales Arizona has been re-signed into effect December 12th of 2022 between the mayor of Nogales, the mayor of Nogales Sonora, the president of Nogales Sonora, the general consulate of Mexico Consul Marco Moreno Baez, and the consulate of the United States in Nogales Sonora Laura Biedebach. We will be sending this important document to Mexico City regarding our agreement to enhance the quality of life of our communities across the border through sports, education, and health workshops. 

The General Consulate of Mexico hosted the 200th anniversary celebration at La Linea Art Studio. In the aftermath of the sisterhood agreement being signed, this event took place. Participated in various community events and meetings with local and state government officials from  Nogales, Arizona and Nogales Sonora. The future of our sister cities depends on building strong, healthy relationships. We honored our Veterans with the placing of Christmas wreaths on their graves as part of the Wreaths Across America. Thank you to Gold star mother Barbara Sutton from Green Valley and American Legion Post 131 members for bringing Wreaths Across America to Nogales this year. It was great to see so many  Veterans and volunteers come out to help.--

Thank you Parks and Recreation Director Renee Travers for this amazing collaboration !

I would like to thank everyone who attended this year’s Christmas Light Parade 2022. There were over 70 entries! It was a safe, fun and enjoyable event. Thank you to everyone who made this possible. This year’s winners are:

1st place - AJ Mitchel  

2nd place - Fco. Vasquez de Coronado 

3rd - Lincoln  

Thanks for all your hard work, congratulations to the winners!

Last but not least, I would like to thank our parade judges, who are all county judges:  Judge Emilio Velasquez,  Judge Thomas Fink,  Judge Lilliana Ortega,  Judge Vannesssa Cartwright,  Judge Robert Gilliland, 

My sincere thanks go out to all of you for your friendship over these years. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. 

Dear Friends,

The mayor and some members of the council participated in a press conference highlighting one of our Nogales' youth. Juan Pablo Lopez, a junior, has been selected as one of 33 top Special Olympics players in the United States to compete at the Xperience Tournament in Virginia in January 2023. He is the first athlete from Arizona to participate in this event in its 14-year history!

This is a great opportunity for Juan Pablo, and congratulations to his parents for their advocacy efforts and how positive Nogales is being represented on a national level. Our hats are off to you, you are truly an inspiration for your dedication and passion for your sport. 

I would like to thank Miguel, Jessica, and Juan Pablo Lopez for being present. Jose Alonso Mezquita, Special Olympics Arizona representatives Lisa Ball and Nick Dinsmore, and Michelle Jacquez, president of the Southern Arizona Autism Association, have all supported Juan Pablo and his family. Nogales Parks and Recreation Director Renee Travers has worked with BYTE Charlie Cutler over the years to revitalize our tennis courts in order to provide healthier lifestyles for our youth. You're doing a great job!

Thanks to Vice Mayor Esther Melendez Lopez, Councilmen Saulo Bonilla and Joe Diaz for attending today's press conference. 

As a final note, I would like to thank Telemundo's Jesus Hiriam Gonzales and Nogales International's Angela Gervasi for covering this inspiring story. Please donate to help the family get Juan Pablo to the tournament in Virginia:

https://www.facebook.com/ustasouthwest

Thank you everyone for a great conference.

The SEAGO executive board held its monthly meeting in Nogales on Friday, November 18th. Santa Cruz County, Cochise County, Graham County, Greenlee County, and Pinal County are represented on the SEAGO executive board, which works for the elderly, youth, and families with disabilities.

Dear Friends,

At the grand opening ceremony of our local Dunkin Donuts, the Mayor, Council and City Administrators were present. Together with Nogales High School's varsity football and cheerleading teams. I would like to congratulate the store on their inauguration and welcome them to our community. All the participants in this event deserve a special thanks, especially the Nogales Police Department, City Manager Edward Dickie, Deputy City Manager John Kissinger, Councilmember Saulo Bonilla, Councilmember Joe Diaz, Councilmember Tavo Gradillas, and City of Nogales staff who provided support. 

Each year, Nogales Night Out brings our community together with law enforcement and first responders to prevent crime. The event is hosted  by Mayor Arturo Garino and First Lady Cathy Garino. In addition to bicycles, we raffle off other items to the children in attendance. During this event, the community has an opportunity to build healthy relationships with our officers. Thanks to everyone who participated and donated to make this event a success! 

With the support of the City of Nogales and Nogales Housing Authority, a building has been donated to the Los Nogales Community Center in collaboration with Chicanos por la Causa, the General Mexican Consulate Marco Moreno Baez and the General Consulate of the United States Laura Biedebach. In the beginning, this center was a vision, a dream that has now become a reality. They will begin by offering healthy living programs and citizenship workshops.

Robert Thompason, Nogales Housing Director, played a critical role in bringing this project to fruition. Our congratulations go out to everyone involved with this important program that will benefit our citizens in Ambos Nogales. 

Dear Friends,

At this year's League of Arizona Cities and Towns in Glendale, the Mayor, Council, City of Nogales Staff and Administration represented the City of Nogales. It is an annual event where city leaders and state governments connect and discuss critical issues. Two awards have been presented to the City of Nogales. Vice Mayor Esther Melendez Lopez is the first recipient of recognition for her service and dedication to the community, and was presented with a plaque for 16 years of service in government. In addition, Mayor Arturo Garino is being recognized for his 12 years of public service. During the last day, we are invited to showcase our great city along with over 200 towns and cities participating in the showcase. Among the top three this year is Nogales, Arizona! We are grateful to Renee Produce and Kaliroy Produce for their donations that helped make this a huge success.

On August 26th, the City of Nogales inaugurated its Dog Park to celebrate National Dog Day. Taking a dream and turning it into a reality was a rewarding experience. In addition to being a part of our families, pets are a part of our communities, and we need to take good care of them as well. I would like to express my gratitude to Wendy Gray and Ricardo Garayzar for their generous donation of dog park entrance signs and plaque stands. You did an amazing job!

A 911 Remembrance Ceremony was held on Sunday, September 11th to commemorate the 21st annual Patriot's Day. This is an important event that changed our history forever and should not be forgotten. Thank you to all council members for attending, to Robert Thompson for conducting the ceremony, to our local law enforcement agencies for participating, and to our Consul en General Marco Moreno Baez for joining us. I would like to thank Pastor Minerva Aldana for the invocation and the benediction. 

Proclamations:

In recognition of all prisoners of war missing in action, September 16th has been proclaimed POW*MIA Recognition Day

National Gear Up Week September 26th 

The City of Nogales has proclaimed September to be National Suicide Prevention Month 

Dear Friends,

The Sonora State Governor Alfonso Durazo visited the City of Nogales. As part of his visit, the governor met with Mayor Arturo Garino, City Administrators, and staff members. In his remarks, he thanked the mayor for his leadership, hard work, and dedication to promoting economic development in border communities. During the meeting, the governor from Sonora and the mayor discussed issues that are relevant to both to the State of Arizona and Sonora, Mexico. The state of Sonora and our neighboring city of Nogales Sonora recognize the importance of maintaining a good relationship.

“We need to plan for the future and build on it. As a result, the sisterhood agreement was signed into effect in 2011.  The visit was enjoyable because of the camaraderie. I haven't had a Sonora State Governor visit City Hall for quite some time. You're Among Friends,"said Mayor Arturo Garino. 

SEAGO's new facilities were inaugurated in Bisbee, Arizona. It is so nice to see this project completed after 11 years of shared vision and mission under SEAGO leadership. SEAGO and AAA are currently housed in two buildings.  It is my pleasure to congratulate and thank Executive Director Randy Heiss for his leadership and Project Manager role in making sure this is properly finalized. Now that your leadership skills have exceeded our expectations, we can celebrate. I would like to thank the SEAGO Executive Directors for their support, DES and Ann English District Supervisor and all the staff for their hard work and dedication to this project. “From my perspective as your Chairman, I know this was a much needed project that now has a home and you will be able to serve our communities more effectively,” said Mayor Arturo Garino.

We are pleased to announce the promotion of our NPD Officers. Congratulations to Lieutenant J. Bermudez, Sergeant A. Palafox, Sergeant  A. Vasquez, Corporal G. Ortega, Corporal J. Gomez, Corporal R. Lechuga and Corporal B. Villela. Thank you to the men and women who risk their lives for our community. “In this city, we support the blue. Thank you for your service, you guys are the future. The Nogales Police Department is something we are proud of. You make Nogales proud, Chief Bermudez and your team. You can count on my support as your Mayor.

Dear Friends,

Here are the plans for Teyechea Park that I would like to share with the community. In addition to being wheelchair accessible for children and adults with disabilities, this design is fully adaptive and inclusive.

Currently, what are we working on? 

The new facility includes a brand new all-purpose grass field, a play area, a walking track, new lighting, a basketball court, picnic areas, and restrooms. 

Please be patient with us as this project will take some time to complete. It is certainly worth the wait to see the end result.  We have posted concept drawings of our plans on the website of the City of Nogales.

In order to bring this dream to life, we have collected over $800,000 in grants, city funds, and personal donations. This is just the first phase. 

Phase 2 of the park complex will add an amphitheater, new parking, and a west entrance to the park complex. There is still a lot of exploration to be done with this concept, so it might change as time goes on. 

Nogales, “We are Ready!”  We are ready for this huge project and many more to come.

There was a visit by Mexican delegations to the City of Nogales to discuss border issues. The group met with representatives from the office of Congressman Raul Grijalva, American and Mexican consulates, City Representatives, and Council Member Saulo Bonilla Jr. The group took a tour of the international border, starting in the Kino Springs neighborhood and heading westward.

Joining tenants living at Casitas Santa Cruz for breakfast is always a pleasure. We have an interactive meeting where they can ask questions about the local government process, current projects, and community resources. The needs of seniors and the disabled community are far too often overlooked. I advocate for their rights. 

Thanks to everyone who attended the 4th of July festivities "Together Again". It doesn't matter what the weather is like, I am always available to the community and its needs. Come see me at City Hall if you need me! 

Dear Friends,

In June, we participated in a variety of community activities and worked on several projects. 

June 1st

The Nogales Community Development has been awarded the Raul Grijalva grant. In partnership with Congressman Raul Grijalva and Nogales Community Development. Thanks for giving me the opportunity to speak to the community about the importance of this and how it will build a strong foundation for future business leaders and entrepreneurs in our community. 

City of Nogales Parks and Recreation is in full swing this summer. Our community will be able to participate in several sports and recreational activities. Among the benefits are learning life lessons, developing social and cognitive skills, building confidence and fostering responsibility in an inclusive environment. Fun Summer Activities for Youth!

June 3rd

Marco Moreno has been appointed as the new Consul General of Mexico in Nogales. Meetings held this month focused on sisterhood agreements, infrastructures, economic stability, and immigration. In order to keep the community safe, Nogales Sonora is moving the railroads that run through the middle of town to a new location. On the Arizona side, we have begun conversations with the Mexican Consulate General in Nogales, Az and the US Consulate General in Tucson, Az, as part of President Manuel Lopes Obrador's office. The topic of our discussion is the importance of our geographic area, such as protecting national forests and the Santa Cruz River.

June 8th

Chicanos por la Causa held an immigration leadership certification program at City Hall. In the session on Local Government, I had the chance to discuss our local government, infrastructure, economics, health and safety with the group. 

June 9th

Beyond the Call of Duty representatives and our Nogales Police Department met at City Hall to honor Officer Jeremy Brinton. The group honors fallen police officers across the country.

June 17th

Barrio Stories and the community came together to celebrate Ambos Nogales Rich Culture. “As an artist, I am passionate about art as it is a means of communication, an expression,” said Mayor Arturo Garino.

Royal Road residents were invited to a public information meeting hosted by the City of Nogales. The Royal Road Water System Improvement Project aims to fix and improve the water distribution system in the neighborhood. Residents gathered at City Hall to learn about the project schedule, goals, and objectives as well as to ask questions and voice their concerns. The attendees were taught how to fix the water lines. Garino said, "It gives me great pleasure to work with such dedicated people who are always striving to improve the quality of life for our residents."

Interviews by:

During an interview with Bud Foster of KOLD 13, Mayor Arturo Garino congratulated the NCD and emphasized the importance of the grant.

Telemundo Arizona –  In an interview with Telemundo, Mayor Arturo Garino discussed the Sisterhood agreement and how it will enable the community and the families to have portable water in Nogales Sonora. 

In an interview with KOLD 13, Mayor Arturo Garino spoke about the importance of fixing raw sewage lines that run through the city. "Our residents' health and safety are paramount.". We continue to request federal assistance in this area. "This is an international issue that must be addressed," Garino said.        

Dear Friends,

It has been a busy month for us. A number of events have taken place. We were honored to be invited to be a part of the Binational Arts Conference. “For Ambos Nogales, the main goal of this collaboration was to use art as a motor for economic development and to enhance citizens' appreciation of art in general.” 

The following collaborative partners made this possible:

BYTE 

La Linea Art Studio 

SCC Schools Superintendent Office - Evan Kory 

Consulado General - Victor Manuel Jimenez Segovia

Presidente  Municipal Juan Francisco Gim

On Thursday, May 19th Mayor Arturo Garino attended the Mayor’s Summit at the Tucson Convention Center Music Hall. The purpose of this event was to provide a platform for Sonoran Desert Mayors to share and discuss perspectives on both the challenges and opportunities they face. The summit attendants were encouraged to share information on economic development in their communities.  

Some of the topics of discussion included: Sustainability / Economic Growth / Tourism / Infrastructure / Jobs / Public Safety / Education / Affordable Housing / Trade / Ports of Entry / Healthcare / The Future of Politics.

Dear Friends,

In 2011, the first Sisterhood agreement was signed between Nogales, AZ and Nogales Sonora. Together, these agreements have served to solidify the interests of both municipal governments and the people they serve. 

This agreement is primarily focused on carrying out joint activities in a variety of areas, including education, health, tourism, technology and other areas agreed upon by both parties. 

On March 3, both sister cities held a press conference at Nogales City Hall to discuss future plans on events to be hosted by the parks and recreation departments of both cities.   

“This is what Ambos Nogales is all about, the ability to work together as one regardless of the fence that may separate us.” _ Arturo Garino, Mayor of Nogales

Through the Sisterhood Agreement, the interests of the municipal governments of Ambos Nogales have been reinforced. The pledge of support has always existed, but events like today's serve to revitalize it. The focus this year will be on sports and sports activities. Visit the Nogales Parks & Recreation Facebook page to learn more about our collaboration with Nogales Sonora sporting events. It is rare to come across such international government relations, but in today's world, they have become increasingly important. The pledge I am making is to maintain unity between our sister city of Nogales, Sonora, and us. We are one community separated by a fence. A symbol of our commitment, "El Abrazo" concludes and solidifies the agreement. There will be a number of future events, the first being a “Phoenix Suns Basketball Clinic” on March 26.  Stay tuned for more information in the next issue of ECO, Mayor Garino said.

On Sunday, March 20th, Mayor Garino and his wife spent the day with the Down's Syndrome Community of Santa Cruz County and friends at the Oasis Theater. At the Oasis Theater, Mayor Garino enjoyed a very enjoyable morning with Jack and Maria Scholnick from The Santa Cruz Parent Love Connection.  In addition to watching Sing 2, they ate a lot of popcorn and enjoyed the movie. "It was great to see everyone.", they said. Thanks again to organizers Jack and Maria Scholnick for the invitation and the coffee cup," said Mayor Garino.