A Voice for El Cotillo: Clarity Amidst the Noise
In recent days, I’ve taken a step back to listen and read everything circulating about me and the Ayuntamiento de La Oliva. The videos, comments, and accusations flooding social media have become troublingly lighthearted, sparking a pressing need to address these matters head-on. As representatives of a municipality like ours, it’s essential we approach these discussions with serenity and responsibility.
The Nature of Critique
Criticism, when grounded in fact, is a powerful tool for growth and understanding. However, it becomes useless—no, harmful—when it leans into lies, rumors, or manipulation. This isn’t politics; it’s mere noise. The age-old adage rings true: falsehoods are short-lived and soon reveal their fragility.
The Heart of El Cotillo
El Cotillo is more than just a picturesque fishing village with a rich history; it embodies the spirit, resilience, and identity of its people. Anyone who claims that our Ayuntamiento lacks respect for this identity is either misinformed about El Cotillo or playing a different game entirely. Our community and its heritage deserve our utmost respect.
The Tourism Dilemma
It’s undeniable that our island is experiencing significant tourist pressure. This prompts a serious conversation about our territorial and economic model. Yet, productive dialogues aren’t built on sensationalism and shouting. Effective decision-making involves thoughtful planning, enforced limits, and courageous political actions. Otherwise, we risk replacing truth with social media algorithms.
Honesty in Discussion
When discussing tourism and its ramifications, we must be honest. It’s easy to condemn a model while privately benefiting from it. This isn’t just a call for accountability; it’s an invitation to be sincere. The community can keenly distinguish between genuine concern for our environment and mere performative outrage.
Clarifying False Accusations
Recently, I’ve been labeled as a “developer” and even referred to as an “agent of the real estate market.” I find myself questioning whether these claims stem from ignorance or intent to mislead. Let me clarify: I haven’t owned a real estate business for five years. I operated a small project, like many others on this island, but closed it long ago to focus on my role as mayor—a fact well known in La Oliva.
Decisions Rooted in Action
Beyond my personal circumstances, my actions speak volumes. My decisions as mayor are documented in formal records, meetings, and—most importantly—through tangible outcomes.
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Opposing Unsuitable Development: From the outset, we rejected a proposal to build 500 homes between El Cotillo and El Roque. This isn’t development advocacy; it’s a commitment to protecting our territory even when some choose to ignore pressing issues.
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Preserving Community Essence: I have consistently and publicly voiced my opposition to any construction that threatens our village’s authenticity. Whether in the media or community meetings, I will always prioritize the essence of El Cotillo.
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Sustainable Growth Matters: Any growth that occurs must be sustainable, orderly, and follow a solid General Plan. We’ve dedicated two years to crafting this plan, aiming for it to become a stronghold against disorder rather than an open door to it.
Rejecting Sensationalism
The current climate of exaggeration and theatrics on social media is discouraging. I find it bewildering that some are just now realizing El Cotillo’s existence. When significant battles arose—against Dreamland, the massive pier in Corralejo, and oil exploration—we stood firm. Many of those touting themselves as the island’s defenders today were either silent or complicit back then.
Connection to El Cotillo
I’m proud to say I am a son of this municipality—not just a catchy phrase, but a fact deeply rooted in my life experience. I’ve witnessed this locale evolve, and I remain committed to ensuring that El Cotillo retains its nautical identity rather than turning into a mere luxury resort for outsiders. Our community’s growth must be balanced, emphasizing care for our residents first and foremost.
An Invitation to Dialogue
For anyone eager to engage in a serious debate about our tourism model, I am here—prepared with data, proposals, and the spirit of respect. This dialogue is necessary, and it must be done correctly. However, to those who come armed with rumors seeking fleeting online applause, let me echo what any sensible neighbor would say: lies may travel fast, but they ultimately stumble on their own.
As we continue our work, we remain dedicated to defending what matters through action, not just noise.
