Addressing Criticism: An Open Message from the Mayor of La Oliva
In recent days, I’ve taken a step back to listen and reflect on the buzz surrounding me and the La Oliva Town Council. It’s been a whirlwind of videos, comments, and accusations circulating on social media with a concerning ease. As the representative of our beloved municipality, it’s time to communicate clearly, grounded in the serenity and responsibility that this role demands.
The Nature of Criticism
Critique is a valid part of any political landscape; it always has been. However, for criticism to be constructive, it must be rooted in facts. What falls outside this realm—lies, rumors, and manipulation—is not politics; it’s just noise. We all know that dishonesty is short-lived.
The Heart of El Cotillo
El Cotillo is a fishing village steeped in history, soul, and identity. This essence is not merely a slogan or a decorative façade; it embodies the life of its community. Those who assert that the Town Council does not respect this identity either lack familiarity with El Cotillo or are pursuing a different agenda altogether.
The Pressure of Tourism
It’s clear that the island faces immense tourism pressure. Equally evident is the need for a serious debate regarding our territorial and economic models. However, such discussions cannot be founded on shouting matches or sensationalist videos. Decision-making here demands thoughtful planning, established boundaries, and political courage. Otherwise, we risk letting social media algorithms dictate our reality.
Speaking Honestly About Tourism
In this discourse, we must all commit to honesty. Discussing tourism and its impacts necessitates coherence. One cannot be an unwavering critic of the existing model while quietly benefiting from it in their personal capacities. This is a general reflection made with respect because the community can distinguish between genuine concern and mere performative outrage.
Clarifying Accusations
Recently, I’ve been labeled as a “developer” and even likened to a “real estate agent.” It makes me ponder whether these claims stem from ignorance or ill intent. Let me be unequivocal: I have not owned a real estate company for five years. I once had a small business, just like many others on this island, which I closed to fully dedicate myself to the responsibilities of the mayor’s office. This isn’t a mystery to anyone in La Oliva.
Decisions Based on Action, Not Social Media
Beyond my personal history, the crux is that my decisions as mayor are documented—present in official records, minutes of council meetings, and most importantly, in tangible outcomes.
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Rejecting Development Plans: From the outset, I opposed a proposal to build 500 homes between El Cotillo and El Roque. Is this what it means to be a developer? No—this is about defending our territory when it matters, even if some prefer to turn a blind eye.
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Opposition to Disruptive Construction: I have been consistently transparent about my opposition to any development that threatens the village’s essence. This is not a new stance and has been reaffirmed in various forums.
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Sustainable Growth: Should any growth take place, it must be sustainable and orderly, in accordance with a serious General Plan. We’ve been laboring over this plan for two years, ensuring it serves as a framework for protection rather than chaos.
A Call for Genuine Engagement
I say this with a hint of irony but also a firm resolve: Enough with the fables and propaganda—let’s reduce the drama performed for social media audiences.
Many seem to be waking up to the existence of El Cotillo. When significant battles needed fighting—against Dreamland, the massive port in Corralejo, or oil drilling—we stood our ground. Those who now claim to be the sole defenders of the island were absent or complicit back then.
A Personal Commitment
Being a child of this municipality is not just a charming phrase; it reflects my deep-rooted connection to the place that shaped me. I understand intimately that El Cotillo must not lose its maritime identity, nor should it morph into a lavish backdrop for outsiders. Unreservedly, I assert that our municipality does not require uncontrolled growth; it needs care, balance, and a priority on its residents.
An Invitation for Serious Debate
For anyone genuinely interested in a comprehensive dialogue about our tourism model, I am here, armed with data, proposals, and respect. Such discussions are necessary and must be conducted with integrity. However, to those who choose to propagate falsehoods for fleeting social media approval, I would echo what any reasonable neighbor would convey: Lies may travel swiftly, but they inevitably fall apart on their own.
We persist in our work. Our commitment to defending what we hold dear will always be manifest in actions, not empty noise.
