ABOUT US–The Municipal Security Committee

A Short History of the Municipal Security Committee (MSC)

As in most cities, San Miguel began feeling the effects of the world economic recession in 2009. In Mexico, tens of thousands of undocumented workers returned to their home towns from the United States where they were no longer able to find work. Unfortunately, even fewer jobs were available here, and some turned to criminal activities in order to support their families.

Burglaries and purse-snatchings showed a significant increase in San Miguel, and municipal government officials responded by calling monthly security meetings in the early part of 2010. The then Director of Security, Captain Walter Avila, heard complaints from both the foreign and Mexican community. Residents seemed unsatisfied with the responses, and even Mayor Luz María Nuñez came to some meetings to try to answer concerns.

By the spring, it had become clear that people were venting, but little was being accomplished. David Bossman, whose own house had been burglarized more than once, suggested the formation of a Committee which could serve as a conduit for complaints, and a vehicle for action. With the blessing of the Mayor’s office, he contacted various individuals and put out a general call for help to the community.

Ten individuals (including US Consular Agent Ed Clancy and Mayor’s representative Irma Rosado) agreed to serve on the newly formed Municipal Security Committee (MSC) and at preliminary meetings, went about writing the Mission Statement so that the group could have a clear focus. In June, the Committee unanimously elected Mike McHenry, a private investigator and 10-year resident, to fill the post of Chairperson of the MSC. David Bossman, a 13-year resident with a background in education and community service, was elected as Assistant Chairperson.

Under McHenry’s leadership, the MSC has been focusing on informing the public as to their rights. This website is a key tool in that pursuit.