Pleno Ordinario del Ayuntamiento de Alcocer de 24 de marzo de 2025

Session Overview and Approval of Previous Minutes

Opening Remarks

• The session begins with a call to order at 10 AM, focusing on the approval of previous meeting minutes from December 30, 2024.

Concerns Regarding Meeting Minutes

• A council member from Podemos raises concerns about omissions in the minutes, specifically regarding contradictory statements made by the mayor that could imply legal commitments.

• The speaker emphasizes that omitting terms like "illegal" from the minutes is not a simplification but rather censorship, arguing for accurate representation of their complaints.

Specific Allegations and Requests

• The council member insists on including literal phrases in the minutes for certain interventions to ensure clarity and accuracy, referencing jurisprudence that supports this practice.

• They reiterate concerns about hazardous materials installed without proper protections, which were not reflected in the act.

Allegations Against Mayor's Conduct

Disparaging Comments

• The speaker requests inclusion of derogatory remarks made by the mayor towards their group, describing them as unpleasant and divisive.

• Accusations are made against their integrity, claiming they spread falsehoods and manipulate data; these comments should be documented accurately in the minutes.

Equal Treatment Request

• There is a call for equal treatment in documenting interruptions during meetings; if opposition members' interruptions are noted, so should those from the mayor.

Budget Liquidation Discussion

Financial Reporting Issues

• The council member highlights discrepancies in financial reports regarding pending collection rights from previous years that were inaccurately presented.

• They clarify that necessary deductions have not been applied correctly to outstanding debts over multiple fiscal years.

Claims of Extortion and Threatening Behavior

• An allegation is made against the mayor for extorting and threatening members via social media; however, this claim is denied by opposing members who label it as misinformation.

Misrepresentation in Meeting Records

Inaccuracies Noted

• It’s pointed out that an important narrative provided by a council member was misrepresented or omitted entirely from the official record.

• Confusion arises between different speakers’ contributions within meeting records leading to inaccuracies regarding who said what during discussions.

Construction and Legal Issues in Local Governance

Overview of Construction Irregularities

• Discussion on the construction of a storage room at Enrique García and Ángeles Cervigón's residence, highlighting potential legal setbacks due to non-compliance with setback regulations. The project details for this residence, including plans for a pool, attic, and basement, have not been provided despite multiple requests.

• Mention of alleged irregularities at Rud Gayen's property regarding non-compliant roofing materials and an unauthorized retaining wall. Additionally, concerns about unreported costs related to street paving amounting to €400,000 are raised.

Confidentiality Concerns

• Emphasis on the omission of personal matters that should be kept confidential during discussions. Specific reference is made to comments from the mayor regarding the private residence of a spokesperson.

Requests for Documentation

• Lack of response noted concerning requests for invoices from the bull management company. It is pointed out that these requests were made electronically but not acknowledged in official records.

• Clarification that this was the first request for invoices since 2023; however, it was misrepresented in meeting minutes.

Cleanliness Issues Raised

• Inquiry into cleaning efforts for a canal mentioned by the mayor as already requested from road maintenance authorities. However, there seems to be confusion over which specific canal is being referred to.

Mayor's Conduct During Meetings

• The mayor’s behavior is critiqued; he labels another member's tone as aggressive while admitting his own escalation during discussions. This highlights tensions within council meetings.

Regulatory Framework and Meeting Procedures

New Regulations Proposed

• Introduction of new regulations aimed at structuring question sessions more effectively in future meetings. The mayor expresses intent to limit excessive questioning directed towards him.

Acta (Minutes) Clarifications

• The mayor asserts that meeting minutes do not need to be verbatim transcripts but should accurately reflect decisions and significant contributions made during sessions.

• Explanation given regarding the role of the secretary in drafting minutes according to legal standards rather than providing word-for-word accounts of discussions.

Voting Procedures

• Transition into voting on session minutes where members express their positions on previous meetings' records without any objections raised against them.

General Account Review

Financial Accountability Discussions

General Account Approval Discussion

Overview of Allegations and Procedures

• The speaker discusses allegations that were completely dismissed by the intervention and technical services of the municipality, indicating a lack of further comments from other members.

• A commission previously addressed discrepancies in the general account's dates, emphasizing that it must be publicly displayed for 15 days to allow for claims or observations from interested parties.

Legal Procedures and Reports

• After examining claims through a special accounts commission, a new report is issued for final approval at the plenary session. The provisional publication deadline was December 30, 2024.

• It is clarified that legal procedures were followed correctly, leading to the presentation of the definitive approval of the general account for 2023.

Disputes Over Approvals

• A member argues that once the plenary approves the general account, it cannot revert back to committee discussions; this point is contested regarding whether allegations were addressed before approval.

• Clarification is made about distinguishing between budget liquidation and general accounts, asserting they are separate matters not to be conflated.

Voting on General Accounts

• The discussion emphasizes voting on definitive approval while addressing previous criticisms raised by another member regarding procedural issues.

• The assembly proceeds to vote on approving the definitive version of the general account for 2023.

Budget Presentation for 2025

Importance of Budget Approval

• The speaker highlights this plenary as crucial due to its role in approving budgets for 2025, marking their sixth year as mayor with pride in infrastructure improvements seen in public services.

Budget Details and Adjustments

• An acknowledgment is made about an error in budget transcription related to diverse income sources amounting to €5000; corrections have been communicated to all council members.

• Specific details about income sources are provided, including municipal facility rentals and utility charges from community centers.

Financial Growth and Community Support

• The proposed budget for 2025 amounts to €456.9 million, reflecting a growth rate of 6.3% compared to last year due largely to support from regional administrations.

• This financial growth enables significant projects aimed at transforming local infrastructure while ensuring sustainability for future generations.

Infrastructure Improvements

Investments and Community Development Plans

Overview of Financial Allocations

• A responsible approach has led to an investment of €141.2 million, more than double the previous year, aimed at significant projects.

• One major project includes renovating the perimeter wall of a rural school with new access doors, scheduled for after summer to avoid disrupting students.

Infrastructure Enhancements

• The building known as "la limpia" will be converted into a workspace for municipal employees, featuring a workshop and changing room facilities.

• The completion of the "Casa de los Maestros" is highlighted as a key initiative that will serve as a community association hub.

Personnel Management and Employment Initiatives

• A reorganization effort last year successfully reduced personnel costs by 33%, totaling €101,300 without impacting municipal services.

• The employment plan from Castilla la Mancha allows reinforcement of staff during peak times like festivals while providing job opportunities for long-term unemployed residents.

Social Services Improvements

• Significant enhancements include a new home assistance service contract that expands subsidized hours and eliminates waiting lists for social care.

• Commitment to cultural dynamism in Alcocer is emphasized through events like cultural weeks and upcoming festivities such as "los mayos."

Future Prospects and Community Sentiment

• The speaker asserts that 2025 will be pivotal for Alcocer, marking unprecedented advancements in services and infrastructure.

• Despite challenges related to depopulation, there is optimism about reversing negative trends through strategic planning and commitment.

Questions Raised by Opposition

Inquiry on Budget Details

• A representative from Izquierda Unida requests clarification on agreements with regional authorities regarding budget allocations.

• Questions arise about missing items in the budget concerning electric vehicle subsidies previously allocated (€400,000).

Concerns Over Personnel Distribution

• Clarification is sought on labor distribution changes within the municipality's workforce compared to previous budgets.

Supply Budget Queries

• There are inquiries regarding discrepancies in supply budgets compared to past expenditures, particularly concerning energy costs.

Maintenance Budget Adjustments

• Questions are raised about reduced maintenance budgets despite ongoing repairs needed due to prior infrastructure issues.

Discussion on Budget and Subsidies

Overview of Subsidy Challenges

• The visible marks and scars from damages are acknowledged, particularly regarding the DUS 5000 project. Approval for a subsidy was received from Laura, but it was advised against due to budget commitments.

• The municipality faced challenges with an 80% subsidy as they needed to advance the remaining 20%, which strained their treasury and led to renouncing the subsidy rather than the projects themselves.

Ongoing Agreements and Budget Issues

• The agreement with Castilla-La Mancha is described as "alive," indicating that financial allocations may change over time compared to initial proposals submitted in 2020.

• Six budgets have been approved by the mayor, yet opposition councilors have not presented any amendments or participated actively in discussions about budget allocations.

Opposition's Role and Responsibilities

• The mayor criticizes opposition members for not engaging in budget amendment processes, emphasizing that participation is essential for effective governance.

• A call for order during discussions highlights frustrations with interruptions; all councilors had access to necessary information since Wednesday prior.

Performance Evaluation of Municipal Staff

• Acknowledgment of improved performance by municipal staff, specifically mentioning Marib's efficiency compared to previous years' service quality.

• There’s a notable difference in work quality under current management versus past experiences, including financial implications related to staffing costs.

Taxation Discussions and Implications

• Concerns were raised about transparency regarding budget allocations; specific details on where funds will be utilized were questioned by opposition members.

• Discussion around tax modifications indicates a significant reduction (95%) in property taxes approved unanimously by councilors, raising questions about fiscal responsibility.

Future Projections and Community Impact

• The mayor expresses optimism about upcoming changes benefiting Alcocer residents significantly within the year ahead.

New European Waste Management Regulations

Overview of New Legislation

• The new European regulations mandate municipalities to enhance recycling collection and reduce environmental impact, leading to increased service costs for waste management in Guadalajara.

• The legislation emphasizes efficient and sustainable waste treatment, imposing penalties for landfill disposal and requiring better handling of recyclable materials.

Financial Implications

• Annual fees for waste management are set to increase: residential rates rise from €45 to €51.75; bars and cafes from €112.50 to €129.38; restaurants from €112.50 to €129.38; commercial establishments from €90 to €103.50.

• Despite the fee increases, the municipality remains one of the lowest in terms of waste tax compared to surrounding areas, indicating a commitment to affordability despite regulatory pressures.

Community Impact

• Acknowledgment that while these changes may strain some families financially, they are necessary steps towards a more efficient and environmentally friendly waste management model.

• The speaker expresses gratitude for community understanding, noting that even municipal officials will also face increased charges as part of this adjustment.

Criticism and Concerns

• Some community members express dissatisfaction with flat-rate billing regardless of property size or occupancy, arguing it unfairly burdens smaller households or infrequent visitors.

• Suggestions include implementing a system where larger properties pay more due to higher waste generation or considering usage-based fees similar to practices in Austria or Germany.

Political Discourse

• There is contention regarding the perceived inconsistency in political messaging about tax increases versus decreases within the council's discussions on fiscal policy.

• Heated exchanges occur over how best to assess property taxes based on occupancy rather than just square footage, highlighting differing views on fairness in taxation.

Conclusion on Policy Implementation

• Arguments arise about whether current policies adequately reflect actual waste generation by residents, emphasizing the need for a fairer assessment method based on household size and activity level.

Local Government Meeting Highlights

Approval of Waste Management Ordinance

• The council discusses the approval of a modification to the local waste management ordinance, emphasizing its impact on community waste generation.

• A voting session is initiated regarding the initial approval of this ordinance, with votes being cast for and against it.

Employment Opportunities Announcement

• The mayor announces an upcoming job offer related to the 2025 employment plan, highlighting that only one position will be available for municipal services.

• Candidates are encouraged to apply through the Cifuentes employment office, which will handle the selection process.

Celebration of Local Traditions

• The mayor mentions that there is only one month left until the May festivities, which include traditional celebrations such as singing to the Virgin and honoring local customs.

• An inauguration event for church gardens is scheduled for May 2nd, followed by a concert in celebration of this occasion. This aims to enhance community engagement and pride.

Infrastructure Developments

• Updates on ongoing infrastructure projects are provided, including sanitation and water supply improvements in various neighborhoods within Alcocer. These efforts aim to boost local social and cultural life while supporting economic growth.

• The second phase of renovations at a grain storage facility is set to commence soon, further contributing to community development initiatives.

Water Quality Concerns Addressed

• A significant issue regarding water quality arises when reports indicate contamination in Alcocer's water supply; immediate actions were taken by the municipality to inform residents about potential health risks associated with consumption.

• The mayor recounts how communication was swiftly managed following an alarming report from public health officials about microbiological contamination detected in water samples collected earlier in January. Immediate preventive measures were implemented while awaiting further analysis results.

Response to Political Criticism

• In light of recent criticisms from opposition council members regarding water quality issues, the mayor defends his administration's transparency and responsiveness during crises, asserting that misinformation has been spread intentionally by political opponents seeking negative publicity for Alcocer.

Water Quality and Public Health in Castilla La Mancha

Overview of Water Safety Measures

• The public health system in Castilla La Mancha is reported to be functioning effectively, ensuring the quality of drinking water.

• An automatic chlorinator has been installed, enhancing water safety; recent improvements include sealing and repairing water deposits.

• Concerns were raised about past fears regarding water safety during previous administrations, which are now deemed unnecessary.

Governance and Transparency Issues

• There are criticisms regarding the lack of knowledge about regulations among council members, particularly concerning transparency in governance.

• The speaker expresses indifference towards a video blog created by an opposing member, emphasizing the importance of community awareness over personal media.

Access to Information and Documentation

• A request for access to the "gestiona" platform was made to streamline administrative processes but faced repeated rejections from the transparency council.

• Questions arise about the designation of technical units within local government structures and their operational capabilities.

Administrative Procedures and Communication

• Clarification on legal procedures related to public contracts is provided, indicating that all steps are being followed according to state guidelines.

• The speaker commits to providing further information at the next council meeting due to current documentation limitations.

Community Engagement and Local Issues

Requests for Infrastructure Improvements

• Community members are encouraged to submit additional questions or requests during meetings; one such request involves cleaning a national road canal.

• Reports of dead cats have surfaced again, prompting calls for government intervention regarding these recurring incidents.

Enhancing Public Information Accessibility

• Suggestions were made for improving communication through social media platforms while also advocating for better website usability for essential public information like bus schedules and pharmacy hours.

Cultural Engagement Initiatives

• Proposals include creating a video archive of cultural events (e.g., conferences, theater performances), allowing future access to these resources online.

Maintenance Requests

• Urgent requests were made for reinstalling fallen street signs that have been down for an extended period as part of ongoing community maintenance efforts.

Administrative Efficiency Recommendations

Water Quality Concerns and Municipal Actions

Addressing Water Supply Issues

• The speaker discusses the lack of information regarding potable water supply to the population, emphasizing that they have only informed the public without any misinformation.

• A request was made for analytical reports on water quality from August 2024, which have not been published. There is also a call for transparency regarding contracts with service providers like Anticimex.

Infrastructure and Waste Management

• Inquiry about whether construction work at the old market has addressed sewage issues previously reported, urging action if it hasn't been resolved.

• The speaker questions why local authorities haven't taken necessary measures to ensure safe water supply despite being aware of contamination issues.

Community Health and Animal Control

• Discussion about stray animals, particularly dead cats in the area. The speaker mentions having personally removed some deceased animals due to municipal workers' reluctance.

• Acknowledgment that animal deaths can occur naturally; however, there are ongoing concerns about reporting these incidents to authorities.

Administrative Challenges

• The speaker expresses frustration over workload management and delays in completing tasks such as installing signage that has already been prepared but not yet deployed.

• Clarification on budget constraints preventing certain administrative actions like video recording meetings for cost-saving purposes.

Ongoing Infrastructure Projects

• Discussion on sewage system improvements and challenges faced in connecting new pipes due to existing infrastructure limitations.

• Emphasis on previous administrations' failures to address critical infrastructure needs, highlighting current efforts as unprecedented in scope.

Water Supply Issues and Government Response

Overview of Water Contamination Situation

• Discussion on the impossibility of providing water supply until analysis confirms contamination status. The local government indicated that no water trucks could be dispatched until results were received.

• Communication with a deputy revealed that bottled water is only provided in prolonged situations, emphasizing the urgency of the issue at hand.

Analysis Results and Community Response

• Initial water sample results indicated that the water was safe for consumption, negating the need to empty storage tanks.

• A request was made to utilize recorded discussions as official minutes, highlighting transparency in communication regarding analytical data and contracts.

Documentation and Transparency Concerns

• There were concerns about whether requested documents had been sent; emphasis on accountability from officials regarding data availability.

• Accusations arose regarding previous requests being dismissed by governance bodies, stressing the importance of publicizing accurate information.

Infrastructure Improvements and Community Energy Projects

• Questions raised about separating sewage systems; confirmation that work has been contracted out to ensure proper infrastructure development.

• Acknowledgment of past neglect concerning outdated piping systems, which posed health risks due to their materials.

Updates on Energy Projects and Maintenance Issues

• Update on community energy project proposals submitted for European funding; focus on enhancing local electrical infrastructure.

• Incident involving maintenance workers causing an electrical fire led to further complications in service provision; efforts made by officials to rectify issues highlighted.

Financial Accountability in Local Projects

• Discussion around historical use of non-potable water sources raises questions about past governance decisions; calls for clarity on operational practices.

• Emphasis placed on completed projects despite challenges faced during implementation phases, showcasing resilience within local governance structures.

Budgeting Concerns for Street Works

• Inquiry into discrepancies between budget estimates for street works over different years; demands for explanations regarding cost increases.

Response to Construction Queries

Clarification on Construction Materials and Budgeting

• The speaker addresses concerns regarding the construction materials used, specifically differentiating between "hormigón fratasado" (smooth concrete) and "hormigón impreso coloreado" (colored stamped concrete), emphasizing the need for clarity from local workers involved in the project.

• Initial budget requests were made for a 340 square meter area during street renovations; however, due to exceeding funding limits set by local authorities, the project was divided into two phases.

• The speaker notes that actual completed work exceeded initial estimates, with over 600 square meters of colored stamped concrete laid down, contradicting claims about lesser amounts being completed.

• Rising international prices due to geopolitical events have impacted material costs significantly; despite this, the project has been more cost-effective than anticipated.

• The speaker refutes accusations of mismanagement or deceit regarding project timelines and budgets, asserting that documentation supports their claims about completed work and funding justification processes.

Street Naming Controversy

• A clarification is provided regarding street naming conventions; while commonly referred to as "Calle Carrasquillas," official records indicate it as "Calle La Rosa," which will be formally updated in an upcoming council meeting.

• The speaker defends the legality of street naming changes dating back to 2001, countering claims of illegality by referencing historical urban planning documents available for public review.

Discussion on Residential Contract Terms

• Transitioning to discussions about a residential contract, it is noted that an additional payment of €1000 was agreed upon for furniture compensation during the first eight months of occupancy under a lease agreement established in July 2012.

• Details are shared about contractual obligations concerning monthly payments and adjustments based on national cost-of-living indices; these adjustments are subject to specific conditions outlined in the contract.

• The speaker reads directly from contractual clauses detailing payment schedules and conditions for rent adjustments based on economic indicators affecting living costs.

• Further elaboration on how rental rates will be reviewed annually based on statistical data collected nationally is provided, ensuring transparency in financial dealings related to housing contracts.

Contractual Obligations and Financial Accountability

Overview of Contractual Issues

• Discussion on the contract renewal with the town hall, emphasizing the need for confirmation regarding the receipt of a security deposit and its accounting records.

• Inquiry about annual rent updates since 2014, questioning if monthly payments of €1,000 were maintained in 2022 and 2023.

Actions Required from Local Authorities

• Questions directed at the mayor regarding actions to compel "Residencia El Palazuelo" to pay outstanding amounts owed to the town hall.

• The mayor is asked to calculate lost revenue over 13 years due to unupdated rents, highlighting accountability issues within local governance.

Historical Context of Contracts

• Reference made to two contracts signed by different officials in 1999 and 2012, indicating a complex history that affects current financial discussions.

• Clarification that no annual accounting was found for a €2,400 deposit because neither contract mandated such a requirement.

Rent Adjustments and Economic Factors

• Explanation that an IPC (Consumer Price Index) adjustment mentioned in contracts is not mandatory; recent increases have been implemented but are questioned for their timing.

• Acknowledgment that missed rent adjustments could stem from administrative oversight or political decisions aimed at alleviating pressure on struggling businesses.

Evaluation of Past Management

• Reflection on past management practices under previous administrations, noting both successes in transforming facilities and failures leading to service deterioration.

• Critique of how rental agreements were handled historically, comparing figures from past contracts with current obligations.

Financial Implications of Contract Changes

• Analysis presented on potential losses incurred by the town hall had previous contracts remained unchanged over time.

• Emphasis placed on effective management improvements seen today due to private investment and European funds contributing positively to facility conditions.

Conclusion: Current State vs. Historical Practices

• Final remarks focus on gratitude towards those who improved current residency conditions while contrasting them with historical mismanagement issues.

Concerns Regarding the Blue House and Local Governance

Introduction to Concerns

• The speaker emphasizes the need for order in discussions about the "Blue House" and its surroundings, indicating it has been a concern since day one.

• Context is crucial; the speaker insists that all participants must be informed about the issues at hand before proceeding with discussions.

Legal Framework and Urban Planning

• The speaker references various laws governing urban planning, highlighting their role as a council member in Alcocer.

• A report from October 14, 2022, discusses regulations regarding fencing on rural land, emphasizing legal compliance for construction projects.

Provisional Authorizations

• The report states that provisional works may be authorized under specific conditions related to safety until formal planning modifications are approved.

• Questions arise about whether the municipality has obtained necessary favorable reports from regional authorities to grant licenses for fencing.

Accountability and Allegations of Misconduct

• The speaker questions if there have been any meetings regarding urbanism topics since 2019 and raises concerns over potential misconduct related to licensing without proper authorization.

• There is an inquiry into whether a specific license granted could constitute prevarication due to lack of required documentation.

Historical Context of Local Politics

• The discussion shifts towards historical political dynamics in Alcocer, suggesting past administrations have neglected local interests.

• Accusations are made against certain council members for using intimidation tactics rather than genuine political engagement.

Legacy Issues with the Blue House Project

• The speaker recounts how previous administrations failed to complete projects like the Blue House despite long-standing efforts dating back decades.

• Specific mention is made of past mayors' involvement in granting licenses for construction that remain contentious today.

Political Rivalries and Election Attempts

• Tensions between current council members and former mayors are highlighted, illustrating ongoing rivalries affecting local governance.

Angel Garrido's Controversial Fencing License

Introduction to the Issue

• The speaker addresses the audience regarding Ángel Garrido's fencing license, specifically mentioning the property adjacent to the "casa azul."

• It is revealed that Ángel Garrido decided to run on a list with Manuel Dels, aiming to resolve a private conflict between their properties using public institutions.

Critique of Local Governance

• The speaker criticizes local officials for prioritizing personal interests over community welfare during the pandemic, highlighting negligence in addressing urgent health concerns.

• After 18 years, the speaker expresses frustration over unresolved issues in the area known as "las helas," indicating extensive efforts by various professionals without success.

Attempts at Resolution

• Multiple attempts have been made to convene property owners and propose solutions; however, key stakeholders have repeatedly failed to attend meetings.

• Despite lack of interest from local government members, there is an ongoing effort to find resolutions for affected residents.

Legal and Technical Aspects

• The fencing by Ángel Garrido has received favorable technical reports from Guadalajara’s provincial council, which supports issuing construction licenses.

• The speaker emphasizes that they are not responsible for delays or complications related to urban planning modifications needed in the area.

Accountability and Ethical Concerns

• There is a call for transparency regarding ongoing construction projects initiated without proper licensing by other council members.

• The speaker invites opposition members to respond about ethical practices concerning payments made under-the-table for private work on properties.

Final Remarks and Requests

• Concluding remarks include questions directed at opposition parties about their stance on unethical practices within their ranks.

Accusations and Personal Attacks in Local Politics

Context of the Discussion

• The speaker addresses local political figures, expressing concern over actions that could compromise or harm their reputation.

• Mentions two councilors from leftist parties, indicating a conflict involving personal and political interests.

Allegations Against Family Members

• The speaker references a folder containing licenses related to construction projects linked to their family members, Enrique García and Angelina Estero.

• Claims that these family members' names have been tarnished in the community as part of a broader attack against the speaker.

Emotional Impact