Mayor David de Vera Addresses Opposition on New Investment Plan for Puerto del Rosario
In a recent session of the Puerto del Rosario council, Mayor David de Vera stood firm against criticisms from the opposition regarding the newly approved multi-year investment plan, which allocates over €9.5 million. Most of the proposed actions are scheduled for implementation in the fiscal year 2027. However, De Vera dismisses the notion that this initiative is politically opportunistic. He stated, “When we entered this legislature, there were no projects or planning in this municipality.”
This statement reflects a significant shift in governance, as the mayor explained that the new plan aims to organize investments and ensure future execution. He emphasized the need for a systematic approach, contrasting it with the previous “patchwork” policy that dominated prior administrations. “An electoralist move would have been to continue with the improvised policies,” he noted.
Prepared Projects Ready for Development
De Vera assured the public that the municipality has ready-to-process projects backed by urban viability. “We have drafted projects with available land and legal feasibility for development,” he stated. The mayor reiterated that an economic schedule has been established via an asphalt and construction plan linked to the multi-year framework.
Moreover, he described the investment plan as “dynamic,” allowing for the inclusion of new initiatives in the future. Among the ventures planned, numerous asphalt projects are outlined, although notable exclusions have arisen, such as the area of La Mareta. The mayor explained that while there is a project and budget for this area, the remaining hurdle is securing appropriate land, which is categorized as “unconsolidated urban land.”
Efforts are underway to collaborate with landowners for the “free transfer of these roads,” emphasizing ongoing discussions to finalize these agreements.
Challenges in Implementation Timelines
Discussing timelines for the execution of these plans, De Vera acknowledged the challenges ahead. “It will be complicated to see the works commence this legislature,” he admitted, yet reaffirmed his commitment to moving the asphalt project forward in collaboration with local residents.
The mayor highlighted progress in the Barrio Nuevo of El Matorral, situated on unconsolidated urban land, where favorable feedback has been received from environmental authorities. He mentioned that fulfilling requirements and engaging with the community to present alternatives is vital as the urbanization project moves forward, involving landowners in establishing a compensation board to financially support upcoming constructions.
Housing Development Efforts
Turning to housing, De Vera reported that construction has begun on a project featuring 47 homes on Don Quijote Street, marking the first public housing initiative in over two decades in Puerto del Rosario. Currently, “there are 176 public housing units” being developed through the Government of the Canary Islands.
However, despite these efforts, the mayor acknowledged that these numbers fall short of current demand. He pointed to the necessity for both public and private initiatives and ongoing planning to enhance housing availability.
Strengthening Technical Office Operations
In a commitment to improving administrative efficiency, De Vera noted advancements in the technical office, which had previously experienced a lull in activity and staffing. He confirmed that “100% of the positions are now filled,” which aims to streamline project supervision and processing.
While acknowledging the improvements, he recognized the ongoing need to bolster the department further to meet the community’s growing demands.
Upcoming Facilities for Law Enforcement
Providing updates on public safety, Mayor de Vera announced plans for the relocation of the Local Police to the commercial facilities at Las Rotondas. As part of a real estate agreement due to previous oversights in land use, he shared that a date has been set for the signing of this agreement: “June 15 will see this finalized at the notary.”
Moreover, adjustments have been made to an initial budget of €300,000, reallocating funds to accommodate the pending establishment of this new police facility while retaining €50,000 for the project design.
Plans for a New National Police Headquarters
De Vera also mentioned ongoing dialogue with Ministry technicians regarding a designated plot of land for a new National Police headquarters near the capital’s bus station. “We received a response from the architect of the National Police,” he explained, underscoring the active engagement with ministry officials, despite awaiting feedback from the island’s directorate.
Enhancements in Urban Mobility
Additionally, De Vera addressed ongoing efforts to improve parking facilities in the capital, collaborating with the Cabildo and private landowners. Plans to enhance parking at several strategic locations, including behind the Charco multifunctional center, are in motion, aimed at creating “free parking areas” that would improve community mobility and access to the city center.
This multi-faceted approach reflects Mayor de Vera’s commitment to addressing the pressing needs of Puerto del Rosario while ensuring robust infrastructural and community development for the future.
