Mayor Bob Filner and Tijuana Mayor Carlos Bustamante officially opened the San Diego City office south of the border on Friday, February 22nd, in a show of unity and commitment to cultivating a relationship that will encourage economic growth and cultural respect.
“Somos dos ciudades pero una región. We are two cities, but one region. This office opening is not just a symbolic gesture, we are going to solidify our relationship and work together to build a great border community,” said Mayor Filner.
The Mayor spoke to a packed house of Mexican and American businessmen and women who gathered to show support for this bi-national effort. The office will be staffed by the Mayor’s Director of Bi-National Affairs. San Diego City Councilmember David Alvarez joined the Mayor in welcoming the Mayor of Tijuana and all the guests. Also in attendance were staff members from the office of San Diego City Council Members including Council President Todd Gloria’s office and Councilmember Mark Kersey’s office.
Mayor Filner also spoke about the possibility of bringing the Olympics to the region.
“I received a letter from the Olympic Committee inquiring if there is interest in having the Olympics here in 2024. I say, let’s do it! But let’s make it a bi-national Olympics. It would be a first of its kind event and the excitement of doing this together will mean great things for both our cities,” said Mayor Filner.
The office space will be utilized for addressing cross border issues and strengthening ties between the two cities.
Although the ceremonial opening took place today, business has been conducted since February 1st as promised by the Mayor in his State of the City Address in January.