Román Cota Muñoz is the Mayor of Tecate in the state of Baja California, having taken office as part of the 25th City Council on October 1, 2024, for the 2024–2027 term. After being sworn in, Román outlined an agenda focused on community development, public safety, and strategic programs under the banner "Tecate al 100." His administration emphasizes service, transparency, and citizen engagement as core principles for advancing quality of life in the municipality.

In this episode…

Border towns are often misunderstood, seen as places you pass through rather than destinations you experience. Yet, one of the most accessible crossings in Southern California offers culture, safety, food, and opportunity in a single walkable setting. How can a border city thrive on both sides of the line?

According to municipal leader Román Cota Muñoz, Tecate in Southern California prioritizes collaboration over congestion. He recommends that border cities develop fast lanes for business and medical tourism, design walkable downtowns so visitors can explore freely, and invest in wellness, manufacturing, and retirement infrastructure to attract long-term visitors — not just day-trippers. Through intentional planning, small border cities can become sustainable economic hubs.

In this episode of The Lawtino™, John Gomez and David Arreguin sit down with Román Cota Muñoz, Mayor of Tecate, to discuss Tecate's role as a binational city. Román talks about cross-border trade and ports of entry, Tecate's rise as a wellness and culinary destination, and how safety, walkability, and regional cooperation drive sustainable growth.