Background on the Museum Barroco and its Financial Challenges
The Museum Barroco in Puebla, Mexico, has long been a subject of financial strain due to a significant debt imposed by previous state governments. This burden amounted to over 10 billion pesos, projected to extend until the year 2039. The museum, initially intended as a significant cultural project, failed to deliver any benefits over the course of a decade.
State Government Takes Action
Under the leadership of Governor Alejandro Armenta, the state government has taken decisive steps to resolve this financial issue. The Auditor Superior of the Federation, David Rogelio Colmenares Páramo, praised Armenta’s administration for its commitment to recovering state assets.
Key Figures and Their Roles
- Fernando Baca Rivera: Titular of the Coordination Unit with Federal Entities in the Secretariat of Treasury and Credit Public, recognized the successful negotiation as a reflection of Armenta’s dedication to ending the debt. He also highlighted Puebla’s solid financial standing, positioning it as a jewel in Mexico’s crown.
- Alejandro Armenta: Governor of Puebla, emphasized that his government would undertake major projects without mega frauds, mega thefts, or mega late-night schemes.
The Agreement and Its Implications
Through a signed Convenio, the state government terminated the contract with Hermes Infraestructura early. This agreement allowed Puebla to walk away from the 10 billion pesos debt, paying only 2 billion pesos instead. As a result, the Museum Barroco now officially belongs to Puebla.
Allocation of Savings
Governor Armenta clarified that this agreement does not compromise state resources or limit ongoing strategic projects. The freed-up funds will be directed towards priority works, including connectivity in the Sierra, Lake Valsequillo’s restoration, and the University Rosario Castellanos in Eloxochitlán.
Additional Context and Reactions
José Luis García Parra, Coordinator of the Cabinet, explained that the administration has worked efficiently, honestly, and responsibly since taking office. This approach led to a review of inherited contracts from past administrations, ultimately initiating the termination process for the Museum Barroco contract.
Subsecretary Víctor Hugo Domínguez’s Perspective
Víctor Hugo Domínguez, Subsecretary of Expenditures in the Secretariat of Planning, Finance, and Administration, detailed that after thorough legal, economic, financial, social, and juridical analysis, the responsible decision was made to terminate the contract early. Had they continued paying 10 billion pesos until 2039, it would have caused significant harm to the state’s treasury, adversely affecting future administrations’ finances.
Key Questions and Answers
- What was the financial burden faced by Puebla regarding the Museum Barroco? The state of Puebla was saddled with a 10 billion pesos debt for the Museum Barroco, projected to last until 2039.
- Who took action to resolve this issue? Under Governor Alejandro Armenta’s leadership, the Puebla state government took decisive steps to address the financial strain.
- What is the new agreement’s outcome? The state government terminated the contract early, paying only 2 billion pesos instead of the original 10 billion. The Museum Barroco is now officially Puebla’s property.
- How will the savings be utilized? The freed-up funds will support priority projects, including connectivity in the Sierra, Lake Valsequillo’s restoration, and the University Rosario Castellanos in Eloxochitlán.
