Álvaro González Alvarado: Chiquilistlán’s Future, Sustainability, Migration, and Local Pride Through the Voice of Its Mayor

Nestled in the heart of the Western Sierra of Jalisco, Chiquilistlán is much more than a picturesque municipality—it is a living example of how strategic planning, respect for tradition, and a sustainable development vision can intertwine to build a resilient and vibrant community. In this exclusive interview for interAlcaldes, Mayor Álvaro González Alvarado shares the achievements and challenges of his administration, marked by inclusion, responsible modernization, and a deep connection to local identity.

With a diversified economy, policies focused on youth retention, a strong migrant presence, and a clear commitment to technical education, Chiquilistlán is carving out its place in regional development. Mayor González not only details the programs that have been implemented but also presents a comprehensive vision of the role municipalities should play in a binational context. His leadership blends efficient management with community sensitivity, positioning Chiquilistlán as an emerging benchmark in western Mexico.

interAlcaldes Magazine. Chiquilistlán has strengthened its economic structure with a solid commercial base. What policies or incentives have driven this growth?

Álvaro González Alvarado. From the beginning of our administration, we set out to create real conditions for local commerce to thrive. We introduced tax incentives for small businesses, simplified procedures for commercial openings, and, above all, improved urban infrastructure so that merchants would have better conditions for growth. We also launched training and networking programs for entrepreneurs.

interAlcaldes. The “Reserva del Rosario” subdivision has been proposed as a strategic investment for sustainable tourism. How do you envision its regional impact?AGA. We see it as a key opportunity to position Chiquilistlán within the Western Sierra tourism corridor. This development was designed with an ecological approach, respecting our natural surroundings. Its integration into the regional economic model will allow us to attract long-stay tourism, responsible real estate investment, and local employment—all under a framework of sustainability.

interAlcaldes. How has your government integrated sectors like construction and financial services with the municipality’s cultural and natural vocation?AGA. We've sought a balance. We support construction growth, but always in line with environmental respect. We promote developments that do not harm our natural heritage. Regarding financial services, we work to attract local cooperatives and credit unions that understand the realities of our producers and merchants. Our vision is of a mixed ecosystem where economic growth and local identity go hand in hand.

interAlcaldes. What actions has your administration implemented to curb migration and strengthen youth engagement?AGA. We've focused on creating opportunities right here: scholarships for technical education, access to vocational training, support for productive projects, and most importantly, improved public spaces and services so that our youth feel proud and motivated to stay in their hometown.

interAlcaldes. What territorial strategies have you promoted to reduce overpopulation in the municipal seat?AGA. We've expanded services to outlying communities—improving rural roads and setting up municipal service modules in townships. Everything shouldn't revolve around the municipal seat. We're decentralizing actions so that living in a smaller community doesn't mean being far from development.

interAlcaldes. How have you engaged the migrant community in the municipality’s development?AGA. The Chiquilistlán migrant community has always been present in our collective consciousness. During our term, we’ve strengthened that bond through assistance with documentation, promotion of local identity, and involvement in community activities when they return home. While there's still work to be done, we recognize their support—moral, economic, or social—as essential for many families.

interAlcaldes. How have you balanced modernization with environmental conservation?AGA. Through responsible planning. Every project we undertake—from streets to recreational spaces—takes the natural environment into account. We use low-impact materials and aim to preserve green spaces. Chiquilistlán must grow without losing what makes us unique: our natural surroundings.

 interAlcaldes. What progress would you highlight in education, sports, and health infrastructure?AGA. We’ve rehabilitated schools, built sports courts in several townships, and secured new health centers. But beyond the physical aspect, the true value is that these spaces are now alive, used, and enjoyed. We measure success through citizen participation and improvements in quality of life indicators.

interAlcaldes. What mechanisms have you used for community participation in project planning?AGA. Community assemblies have been our foundation. Before any project, we listen. We also use surveys and digital channels to gather public opinion. This has fostered greater trust. Today, people know their voices matter in decision-making.

interAlcaldes. How has Chiquilistlán connected with Jalisco’s broader tech ecosystem?AGA. We’ve invested in technical training. We joined state programs and arranged courses in emerging technologies, especially for youth. We're also modernizing internet access in communities and public buildings to reduce the digital divide.

interAlcaldes. Are there plans to link technical graduates with the productive sector?AGA. Absolutely. We’re in the process of signing agreements with regional companies to create a talent pool for young workers. We also aim to launch a small municipal incubator for tech and business projects. The goal is not just employment, but entrepreneurship.

interAlcaldes. What’s your view on technical education as a driver of social mobility?AGA. Technical education is the key. Many young people can’t afford university, but they can learn a trade, develop digital skills, or start a business. From my experience, focused training changes lives. Our mission is to spark that transformation here at home.

interAlcaldes. What is your opinion on the proposed Estado 33 as a political visibility mechanism for the Mexican diaspora?AGA. I think it's a very necessary proposal. Our migrants already participate actively in the economy and culture—they deserve a voice in political decisions. Municipalities can serve as bridges, promoting their organization and representation. Identity isn’t lost with distance.

interAlcaldes. What has been your approach to local migration policy?AGA. We’ve worked on two fronts: protecting the rights of those who leave, through legal assistance and consular ties, and facilitating their return with reintegration programs and support for productive investments. We also promote family reunification and recognize the contributions of our migrants.

interAlcaldes. To conclude, and turning to cultural preservation and local identity, what actions have you taken to promote traditional lamb birria prepared "on the stake" or "al pastor"?AGA. Lamb birria, especially when cooked "on the stake" or "al pastor," is one of the most authentic expressions of our culinary identity. We’ve promoted it at local events and fairs and are pushing for its recognition as part of Chiquilistlán’s cultural heritage. We’re also restoring our traditions through historical recovery, such as the upcoming restoration of the church altar, and compiling our collective memory to highlight what makes us unique. We believe preserving our roots is the first step toward projecting ourselves into the future with identity.

The interview with Mayor Álvaro González Alvarado reveals an administration deeply committed to balancing progress with identity, modernity with roots. Chiquilistlán not only faces the usual challenges of municipalities in western Mexico—it is actively reinventing itself with a focus on inclusion, sustainability, and civic participation.

At a time when municipalities must play a more active role in the binational context, Chiquilistlán’s experience offers valuable lessons on how the local can shape the global. The key, according to its mayor, lies in never losing sight of what makes us unique as a community.

Written by: Editorial

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