SESIÓN DEL CONCEJO MUNICIPAL DE GUAYAQUIL # 166 -16 DE ABRIL DEL 2026 #GUAYAQUIL

Guayaquil: A City Rebuilding Through Sports and Health

The Role of Sports in Social Reconstruction

• The speaker emphasizes the transformative power of sports in changing lives and rebuilding social fabric, highlighting Guayaquil's commitment to this vision.

• The initiative "Celebra" aims to celebrate sports among children and communities, positioning Guayaquil as a pivotal city for American sports by 2026.

Health Initiatives in Guayaquil

• The Mayor of Guayaquil is portrayed as caring for the welfare of humble citizens, with significant medical attention provided—2.5 million services reported.

• There has been a nearly 40% increase in municipal health services compared to previous administrations, showcasing growth in investment and coverage.

Community Health Awareness

• The speaker warns about health risks from pests like flies and cockroaches that carry germs, stressing the importance of maintaining cleanliness at home.

• Emphasizes the "3 R's" principle (Reuse, Reduce, Recycle) as key to preventing diseases linked to waste management.

Environmental Responsibility

• Proper waste separation into organic, paper, cans, and plastics is crucial for reducing health risks associated with garbage.

• Highlights Guayaquil's recognition as the American Capital of Sport for 2026—a milestone that reflects its commitment to inclusion and social development through sports.

Symbolism of Recognition

• Receiving the flag symbolizes Guayaquil’s achievements and commitment to being an active city focused on solidarity and opportunities.

• This title inspires hope within Ecuador and demonstrates that collective effort can lead to achieving ambitious goals.

Public Health Concerns Related to Waste

• Discusses how decomposing waste can lead to respiratory issues and infections; direct contact with hazardous materials poses additional dangers.

• Encourages personal responsibility in maintaining cleanliness as a means of disease prevention.

Support for Personal Growth

• Expresses support for individuals discovering their potential while emphasizing community involvement throughout their journey.

Municipal Session Overview

• Introduction by officials at an ordinary session highlights civic engagement; acknowledgment of attendees via social media platforms is noted.

Commemoration of Tragedy

• A council member proposes a moment of silence commemorating victims from a devastating earthquake ten years prior, reflecting on shared grief within the community.

Meeting Proceedings and Agenda Modifications

Acknowledgment of Earthquake Victims

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of remembering earthquake victims and supporting their families during their loss.

Modification of the Agenda

• A motion is raised to modify the agenda to include a new item regarding licenses requested by council members Manuel Romero and Nelly Puyas. This modification is supported unanimously.

Approval of Licenses

• The council officially resolves to approve the modification, establishing point 9 as the discussion on licenses from council members Manuel Romero Merchan and Nelly Puyas Chávez.

Review of Previous Meeting Minutes

• The meeting proceeds to discuss the minutes from session number 165 held on April 9, 2026, with some members abstaining due to absence in that session.

Voting on Session Minutes

• A motion for approval of the minutes is presented and supported by several council members; it passes with majority support despite some abstentions.

Discussion on Transportation Tariff Reform

Introduction of Second Debate on Tariff Project

• The council moves forward with discussing the second debate concerning a project aimed at reforming transportation tariffs in Guayaquil, referencing legal stipulations from local governance codes.

Justification for Tariff Update

• Council member Emmi Libera highlights that updating transportation tariffs aligns with contractual obligations established in a contract from September 2017, emphasizing its necessity for compliance.

Concerns Over Public Transport Accessibility

• Council member Ana Choyce raises concerns about ensuring accessibility and equity in public transport amidst tariff increases, stressing community needs over financial burdens.

Evaluation Post-Tariff Implementation

• There are calls for evaluating how these tariff changes will connect with existing transport systems like Metrobía after implementation, considering past administrative shortcomings in addressing public transport issues effectively.

Reflection on Past Administration's Role

• Acknowledgment is made regarding previous administrations' responsibilities related to transport issues; current discussions aim to address ongoing challenges faced by citizens without placing undue financial strain on them.

Discussion on Transportation and Municipal Responsibilities

Overview of Current Transportation Challenges

• The speaker emphasizes the need to explore alternatives to reduce the tax burden on citizens, indicating a shift towards more sustainable financial practices.

• Reference is made to a contract from 2017 that obligates the current administration to review tariff adjustments for the Weyekil aerial transport system, highlighting continuity in governance responsibilities.

• It is clarified that tariff adjustments are not solely determined by local authorities but involve broader municipal agreements, ensuring transparency in decision-making processes.

Addressing Past Planning Issues

• Acknowledgment of past planning failures regarding the aerial transport system; however, there is a call for constructive solutions rather than lamentation over previous mistakes.

• The importance of improving connectivity through collaboration with taxi services is stressed as a proactive measure to enhance transportation options for citizens.

Commitment to Existing Agreements

• Despite disagreements over fare increases, there is an emphasis on fulfilling existing commitments and adhering to established plans set forth by ATM (the municipal transport authority).

• Support for motions related to transportation improvements reflects a commitment to responsible governance and adherence to legal obligations.

Engagement with Stakeholders

• A request is made for further clarification from ATM's management regarding multimodal transport strategies, showcasing an interest in informed decision-making among council members.

• The ATM manager outlines ongoing efforts aimed at increasing user engagement with aerial transport systems through stakeholder collaboration.

Future Directions and Innovations

• Plans are discussed for enhancing user experience within the aerial transport system by establishing agreements with various transportation guilds.

• Introduction of electronic payment methods across different modes of public transport aims at streamlining operations and improving accessibility for all users.

Conclusion of Discussions

• Following discussions, support for proposed motions indicates consensus among council members regarding necessary steps forward in transportation policy.

• Approval of agenda items reflects active participation in municipal governance and commitment to addressing community needs effectively.

Municipal Ordinance on Tourist Tax

Purpose of the Ordinance

• The ordinance aims to regulate the municipal overnight tax as a mechanism to finance tourist services provided by the Guayaquil Municipal GAT and associated entities. This includes tourist information, visitor assistance, complaint management, and enhancing service channels for tourists.

Support for the Motion

• Council member Juanita Montero expresses hope for unanimous support from colleagues regarding the motion. The motion is subsequently approved unanimously in a second debate.

Temporary Markets Resolution

Introduction of Legal Report

• The council discusses legal report number AJ-C&N-2026-00228 concerning a resolution project for temporary market operations as an exception regime during school corridors in 2026, promoted by the General Directorate of Canton Cleaning, Markets, and Special Services.

Reflections on Temporary Markets

Importance of Citizen Information

• Council member Fabián Espin emphasizes the significance of citizen information and addresses his fellow merchants directly about maintaining order in Guayaquil amidst commercial activities. He acknowledges that markets are essential due to educational needs.

Goals of School Corridors

• The primary goal is to maintain order in Guayaquil's bustling commercial environment while ensuring that commerce does not become a public health issue. There is a historical context where Guayaquil resembled an open-air market thirty years ago, which they aim to avoid repeating.

Regulating Commercial Activity

Need for Regulation

• Espin highlights that regulating temporary commercial activity is crucial during specific seasons like school periods while acknowledging past efforts by political parties to clean up city disorder without reverting back to chaos. He stresses that regulation should not hinder people's right to work autonomously.

Balancing Rights and Order

• The municipal authority's role involves organizing commerce so it does not disrupt urban aesthetics or traffic flow while safeguarding individuals' rights who engage in autonomous work as a means of livelihood.

Commitment to Transparency

Assurance Against Past Practices

• Espin assures merchants from Bahía that all procedures will be conducted legally and transparently without any illicit practices such as bribery or favoritism in participation processes related to temporary markets. He invites public oversight over these procedures for accountability purposes.

Encouragement for Participation

• Citizens are encouraged to participate actively in monitoring these processes aimed at orderly commerce while protecting workers' rights within Guayaquil’s economic framework during educational periods ahead of the new academic year starting soon.

Conclusion on Market Operations

Approval Motion Details

• Espin proposes approval for a resolution allowing regulated use of public spaces specifically designated for informal markets during exceptional circumstances tied to education periods, emphasizing this measure is temporary rather than permanent under current regulations governing municipal markets and public space usage.

Regulation of Temporary Commerce in Guayaquil

Overview of the New Measure

• The new regulation will be effective from June 14, with operational hours set from 9 AM to 6 PM, charging a fee of $4.25 per square meter, contingent upon occupancy agreements.

• The primary goal is to organize temporary commerce, support self-employed workers, and ensure safety and control in public spaces.

Support for the Initiative

• Council member expresses support for the motion presented by Fabián Espin, emphasizing that beneficiaries are not informal traders but part of a systematic regularization plan.

• Acknowledgment of previous commitments made by Mayor Aquiles Álvarez to shift from punitive policies towards dignified work opportunities for all in Guayaquil.

Data on Local Commerce

• Municipal database indicates a census identifying between 12,500 to 13,000 self-employed traders within the canton.

• Encouragement for other merchants to participate in the regularization process amidst national economic challenges affecting local needs.

Importance of Quality Service

• Emphasis on providing quality service within designated corridors as part of the mayor's initiative under both current leadership and past efforts.

• Notable mention that many identified traders are women who have become heads of households; their inclusion is crucial.

Economic Impact and Future Proposals

• Highlighting successful participation from over 1,300 self-employed traders generating approximately $1.3 million in economic activity during previous years.

• Proposal to extend the school fair until June 21 to benefit both merchants and families seeking affordable school supplies.

Legislative Support and Community Engagement

• Call for council members' support regarding extending school corridor deadlines due to organizational delays impacting parents' purchasing timelines.

• Agreement among council members on extending deadlines while considering community needs; this initiative aims at establishing permanent regulations rather than temporary measures.

Conclusion on Viability

• Discussion around making public policy permanent for informal traders with an estimated participation range between 800 and 1,000 autonomous vendors expected in upcoming initiatives.

• Assurance that all necessary legal and technical frameworks are in place to approve special regimes for school corridors effectively.

Discussion on Market Tents and Economic Impact

Inquiry About Tent Usage and Costs

• A delegate raises concerns regarding the use of tents by merchants, specifically questioning why new dimensions are being proposed when existing tents have been in use since 2023.

• The delegate emphasizes the financial burden on merchants, suggesting that they should continue using their current tents to avoid additional expenses during a challenging economic period.

Clarification on Tent Responsibilities

• A market representative clarifies that the responsibility for the tents lies with autonomous merchants, who pay approximately $9.25 for a tent shared between two vendors.

• It is noted that around 1,300 merchants participate in this program over two months, operating from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Support for Merchant Concerns

• Council member Ana Chavez supports the motion while addressing public concerns about managing high-demand periods and ensuring clear rules and schedules for commercial activities.

• There is a call to avoid generalizing negative perceptions of municipal officials based on isolated incidents involving misconduct.

Inclusion of Disabled Merchants

• A question arises regarding how many participants in the school corridor are autonomous or disabled merchants, highlighting ongoing concerns about their inclusion in commercial opportunities.

• The importance of providing equal working opportunities for all merchants is stressed as part of municipal planning.

Educational Resources Update

• The mayor is asked to explain why no school books will be distributed this year, reflecting community worries about educational resources.

• Danilo Martínez explains that CERCOP has blocked multiple processes related to educational materials but mentions efforts to provide school kits and free eye exams through DASE.

Conclusion on Community Support Initiatives

• Despite setbacks with book distribution, initiatives like providing school supplies and vision care are highlighted as positive steps towards supporting children’s education.

Impact of Educational Programs in Guayaquil

Overview of Educational Support Initiatives

• The "Edúcate Huayaquil" program is being implemented to alleviate financial burdens on families, particularly through the distribution of school kits and backpacks.

• Juanita Montero emphasizes the importance of a new ordinance aimed at promoting organized corridors to boost local economic activity.

Suggestions for Ordinance Improvement

• Montero proposes adding the word "streets" in Article 5 to clarify the temporary occupation period, enhancing administrative precision.

• She suggests formally suspending vehicle circulation in affected streets to ensure pedestrian safety and facilitate commercial flow during school hours until June 21, 2026.

Support for Local Commerce

• José Alashir Lealdas supports extending commercial corridors until June 21, highlighting Guayaquil's identity as a hub for merchants and advocating for affordable products for families.

• He calls for consideration of expanding these initiatives to include the terminal on Avenida 25 de Julio, allowing more vendors access to customers.

Advocacy for Merchants' Rights

• Alfredo Bautista stresses that public officials must make decisions that benefit Guayaquil's citizens and support local commerce, especially during back-to-school season.

• He advocates for increasing the number of registered merchants beyond 3,000, emphasizing their need to work freely without excessive restrictions.

Concerns Over Resource Allocation

• Bautista urges city officials to consider including temporary vendors at key transit points like Metrobía terminals to enhance economic opportunities.

• Concerns are raised about delays in providing educational materials due to government processes; there is a call for transparency regarding stalled projects affecting schools.

Discussion on Municipal Processes and Accountability

Curiosity in Governance

• The speaker expresses agreement with a colleague, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and questioning within municipal governance.

• Acknowledges the need for transparency regarding the DAS books and the Educate Guayaquil program, highlighting the role of public discourse in governance.

Campaign for Transparency

• Suggests launching a campaign to address suspended processes within the municipality, aiming to leave a legacy of accountability.

• Requests specific information about contracts that are currently on hold, supporting previous calls for clarity from colleagues.

Information Requests

• Reiterates requests for information on all suspended processes, indicating that some details have already been shared but more is needed.

• Emphasizes ongoing planning under current leadership to ensure city services continue despite challenges.

Recommendations and Feasibility

• A council member seeks clarification from market officials regarding recommendations made by fellow councilors and their feasibility.

• The delegate acknowledges suggestions but states that certain expansions are not feasible based on existing reports.

Addressing Public Concerns

• Discusses public perceptions of police conduct towards vendors, asserting that while there may be issues, many officers are dedicated professionals.

• Calls for support in approving motions related to municipal order while recognizing valid concerns raised by council members.

Approval of Municipal Agenda Items

Voting Process

• The motion presented by Councilor Fabián Espin is put to vote and approved unanimously by council members.

Next Steps in Municipal Operations

• Following approval, attention shifts to point five of the agenda concerning committee formation as per legal requirements outlined in local legislation.

Documentation of Complaints

• The secretary notes receipt of three complaints which have been communicated to relevant authorities and council members for awareness.

Formation of Committees

• Councilor Emil Ibera proposes a motion to form a committee as mandated by recent legislative changes aimed at improving municipal operations.

Council Proceedings on Allegations Against the Mayor

Formation of the Commission

• If a complaint is filed against the primary authority of the decentralized autonomous government, both this authority and the secondary authority cannot participate in its processing. Other legislative members will be called to form a commission.

• To legally establish this commission for handling complaints and qualifications, new members from the Cantonal Council must be appointed to ensure proper procedure for mayoral removal as per legal requirements.

Composition of the Commission

• The current composition includes the mayor, acting mayor, and councilor Terry Álvarez. To comply with Article 336 of COTAT and ensure diverse representation, it is proposed that councilor Arturo Escala replaces both authorities in this commission.

• Additionally, councilor Ana Fuentes will join to further enhance plural participation in this process. A motion was raised to formalize these changes.

Voting Process

• During voting, one council member abstained due to being a candidate themselves; they expressed their decision not to vote for personal reasons but allowed others to vote freely.

• The motion presented by councilor Milibera was approved by majority vote despite one abstention from councilor Arturo Escala.

Approval of Agenda Items

• The Municipal Council of Vallequil approved item 5 on the agenda regarding the formation of committees for processing complaints. The meeting then moved on to item 6.

Legal Report Discussion

• Item six involved discussing a legal report concerning approval plans for urban development in Bastión Popular. Councilor Shirley Aldaz proposed approving redesign plans based on favorable municipal reports.

• Following discussions, there was unanimous support among councilors for Aldaz's motion regarding urban planning approval.

Extinction of Family Patrimony

• Moving forward to item seven, councilor Terry Alvarez requested approval for addressing 96 cases related to family patrimony extinction that predated recent regulations.

• This motion received backing from fellow councilors and was subsequently approved by majority vote during proceedings.

International Recognition Discussion

• In item eight, recognition from international bodies regarding Guayaquil’s parks and public spaces was discussed. A video prepared by Social Communication Directorate was introduced for further insights into this acknowledgment.

Guayaquil's Urban Transformation

Introduction to Parques EP

• Guayaquil has a rich history, but it chose to transform its narrative through the establishment of Parques EP in January 2024. This initiative aims to modernize urban management with administrative and operational autonomy.

• The focus is on creating public value by responsibly conserving and utilizing urban spaces, marking a significant shift in how the city approaches its green areas.

Commitment to Green Spaces

• A sustainable management model has been implemented, ensuring ongoing agronomic and civil maintenance across the territory. New regulations have been established to protect natural heritage.

• Over 40,000 native trees and 420,575 ornamental plants have been planted, revitalizing previously lifeless areas and enhancing green coverage.

Sustainable Urban Planning

• The city has transitioned from merely intervening in spaces to planning sustainable growth. This technical rigor led Guayaquil to apply for international recognition as a "Tri-City of the World" on October 28, 2025.

• By meeting high global standards, Guayaquil joined an exclusive network of 283 cities prioritizing green infrastructure alongside major cities like Chicago and Toronto.

Legacy of Leadership

• The recognition serves not as an endpoint but as a foundation for improving residents' quality of life. It signifies a commitment to leaving behind a greener, more resilient city prepared for future challenges.

• This achievement reflects the vision of Mayor Aquiles Álvarez and continues under Acting Mayor Tatiana Coronel’s leadership.

Community Engagement and Challenges

• Councilor Blanca López acknowledges the visible changes due to planting efforts—40,000 trees and over 400,000 ornamental plants—and highlights community discussions around tree pruning practices.

• Pruning is necessary for urban trees; however, public understanding can be limited. López emphasizes that citizens often request these actions despite concerns during heat waves.

Addressing Urban Forestry Issues

• López commends Parque GP Ambiente's efforts in reforesting Guayaquil amidst challenges such as pest infestations affecting urban trees that were previously neglected.

• She stresses that this administration started from scratch due to years without an integrated arborization plan while recognizing collaborative efforts with environmental organizations.

Importance of Native Urban Forests

• The administration is focused on recovering urban forestry while combating climate change impacts through comprehensive plans involving various stakeholders.

• Native urban forests are crucial for air quality improvement, temperature regulation, and flood reduction—essential elements for enhancing Guayaquil's livability.

Significance of International Recognition

• Achieving "Three Cities of the World" status represents high-level acknowledgment not easily attained by many cities globally.

• This recognition comes from an international body based on objective standards rather than political motivations or electoral calculations.

Urban Forestry Initiatives in Guayaquil

Overview of Urban Tree Management

• The administration is actively validating its work on urban forestry, addressing both misinformation and genuine concerns from the public about the city's green spaces.

• Acknowledgment that while progress has been made, there is still more to achieve in enhancing Guayaquil's greenery through strategic planning for the future.

Recognition of Efforts

• The speaker emphasizes that investment in environmental initiatives reflects a commitment to a sustainable future for Guayaquil, which is gaining international recognition for its efforts.

• Appreciation is expressed towards the mayor and technical team dedicated to improving urban forestry, highlighting their passion and expertise in managing the city's green spaces.

Challenges Faced

• Discussion of past challenges faced by the city, including inherited contracts that hindered effective management of urban trees; now all areas are under contract and being actively managed.

• The speaker recounts efforts to remove diseased trees affected by pests, emphasizing proactive measures taken despite previous fears surrounding media scrutiny.

Achievements and Future Goals

• Notable improvements have been made in maintaining green spaces during dry seasons, with ongoing efforts to manage tree health effectively throughout varying weather conditions.

• The importance of employing qualified professionals rather than relying on individuals without relevant expertise was stressed as crucial for successful urban forestry management. This shift has led to significant improvements across major avenues in Guayaquil.

Community Engagement and Legislative Actions

• The speaker calls attention to how community feedback has evolved from criticism to acknowledgment of positive changes within the city’s infrastructure related to urban forestry initiatives.

• Following discussions on various agenda items, motions were presented regarding licenses requested by council members, indicating active legislative engagement with local governance issues affecting urban development.

Meeting Summary and Key Insights

Closing Remarks by the Mayor

• The mayor acknowledges the council members and expresses gratitude for their attendance, indicating that a request has not yet been received.

• The mayor plans to verify the status of this request through official communication channels after the session concludes.

• Acknowledgment is given to the secretary and fellow council members for their contributions during the meeting.

• The mayor wishes everyone an excellent day, emphasizing a positive conclusion to the session.

Importance of Sports in Community Development

• The speaker reflects on their upbringing in sports, highlighting its role in teaching service and community engagement.

• Upon taking office as mayor of Oyequil, they recognized sports as a fundamental pillar for transforming lives and rebuilding social fabric.

• The commitment to integrating sports into community initiatives is emphasized, moving beyond mere rhetoric to actionable programs.

• Oyequil's designation as the American Capital of Sport in 2020 is celebrated, showcasing pride in local youth and neighborhoods through sporting events.