Alders describe sister‑city trip to Tepecatlán, highlight circular economy and cultural exchanges

Several alder members reported on a recent sister‑city visit to Tepecatlán in Jalisco, Mexico, describing lessons the delegation said could inform Madison’s approach to tourism, local business coordination and environmental stewardship.

An alder who joined the trip summarized the delegation’s central takeaway: "a circular economy... every bit of that agave plant whether it goes back into the farm as fertilizer or gets put somewhere else, every single part is reused or put into use in some different way," the delegate said, describing tequila‑industry practices observed in the region.

Alder Oliver O'Brien, who also attended, said the delegation saw strong coordination between local government and private‑sector groups — including chambers of commerce, hotel and bar associations — and noted interest from local businesses in finding U.S. distributors. "It was incredible coordination," O'Brien said, adding the group learned about environmental approaches to lake protection and met students and faculty at local universities and high schools.

Why it matters: delegates said Tepecatlán’s small‑town economy is actively growing and its emphasis on reuse and local promotion may offer ideas for Madison’s destination marketing and environmental coordination. Delegates suggested continuing exchanges and working with Destination Madison and the mayor’s office to connect local businesses with potential partners.

No council action was requested or taken; this agenda item was a report and discussion only. Delegates encouraged colleagues to attend an upcoming city lakes discussion referenced by staff.