SESIÓN DEL CONCEJO MUNICIPAL DE GUAYAQUIL # 157 - 20 FEBRERO DEL 2026 #GUAYAQUIL

Building a City for Everyone: The Vision of Guayaquil

Commitment to Community and Growth

• The Mayor emphasizes agility and professionalism in the municipal health network, highlighting a commitment to community support from early childhood through adulthood.

• A 35% increase in budget is announced, aimed at enhancing programs, support, and opportunities for residents, reinforcing the idea that a dignified life is built through collaboration.

Infrastructure Development

• Investment of approximately $3.4 million in new public spaces designed to save lives and promote community engagement at key locations (Kilometer 11.8 and Kilometer 14.2).

• New concepts include elevators and commercial spaces that accommodate bicycles, ensuring accessibility while promoting green initiatives with ornamental plants.

Celebrating Sports as a Unifying Force

• Guayaquil has been declared the American Capital of Sport for 2026 due to collective efforts aimed at increasing youth participation in sports.

• Recognition of local sacrifices highlights Guayaquil's status as an emblematic sports city; sport is seen as essential for social reconstruction.

Health Initiatives

• The municipal health network has provided over 2.2 million free healthcare services, emphasizing the importance of accessible healthcare for all citizens.

• Services offered include consultations, lab tests, free medications, imaging diagnostics, and surgeries facilitated by mobile clinics reaching every neighborhood.

Prioritizing Well-being

• Every resident deserves compassionate care; the city operates seven day hospitals and numerous clinics to ensure comprehensive health coverage.

• Each interaction within the health system aims to be efficient and professional, reflecting a deep commitment to improving quality of life across Guayaquil.

Guayaquil: Capital of American Sports 2026

The Role of Sports in Community Development

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of sports as a fundamental pillar for changing lives and rebuilding social fabric, highlighting Guayaquil's designation as the Capital of American Sports in 2026.

• Personal anecdotes illustrate how growing up with sports instilled a sense of service, reinforcing the idea that sports can be a transformative force within communities.

Health Initiatives in Guayaquil

• The municipal health network has expanded significantly, providing free healthcare services to over 3,000 individuals daily through various centers.

• Services offered include consultations, laboratory tests, diagnostics, and surgeries aimed at improving quality of life for families across Guayaquil.

• Emphasis is placed on accessibility; there are seven day hospitals, 14 dispensaries, and 30 mobile clinics ensuring comprehensive health coverage.

Commitment to Quality Healthcare

• Each interaction within the municipal health system is characterized by agility and professionalism, aiming to provide warm and humane care to every citizen.

• The speaker reiterates that every Guayaquileño has the right to receive compassionate healthcare services.

Infrastructure Improvements for Better Mobility

• A new elevated roadway on Avenida de las Américas enhances traffic flow for over 140,000 citizens daily while prioritizing safety and efficiency in urban mobility.

• Investments have been made into pedestrian-friendly spaces equipped with amenities like elevators and rest areas to promote community engagement and safety.

Vision for a Sustainable Future

• The administration aims for an environmentally friendly city with green spaces integrated into urban planning as part of their commitment to sustainability.

Discovering Identity and Community Support

Embracing Personal Growth

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of self-discovery, highlighting support in understanding personal preferences and aspirations.

• They express a commitment to providing tools for individuals seeking independence and growth, celebrating life alongside them.

Commitment to Community Development

• A promise of increased budget (35% more) is made to enhance programs, support, and opportunities for community members.

• The speaker stresses that building a dignified life involves collaboration and mutual assistance within the community.

Infrastructure Improvements in Guayaquil

New Pedestrian Pathways

• Introduction of special pedestrian pathways at key locations (Kilometer 11.8 and 14.2), with an investment of approximately $3.4 million aimed at saving lives.

• These pathways include features like elevators, commercial spaces, and bike access, promoting convenience for pedestrians.

Green City Initiatives

• The focus on creating a greener Guayaquil includes planting ornamental plants along new infrastructure projects.

Sports as a Foundation for Community Unity

Recognition as Sports Capital

• Guayaquil has been declared the American Capital of Sport for 2026 due to collective efforts aimed at increasing youth participation in sports.

Importance of Sports in Social Change

• The speaker reflects on their personal journey with sports as a transformative tool for social reconstruction and community service.

Health Services Expansion

Municipal Health Achievements

• Highlighting significant achievements in municipal health services, over 2.2 million free healthcare consultations have been provided.

Comprehensive Healthcare Offerings

• Services include free consultations, lab tests, imaging diagnostics, surgeries, and mobile clinics aimed at improving family health quality.

Municipal Council Session Overview

Opening Remarks

• The session begins with formal introductions from the acting mayor and acknowledgment of council members present during this extraordinary meeting.

Agenda Items Discussion

• The first agenda item addresses the resignation of the previous secretary of the municipal council and proposes appointing a new secretary based on established legal protocols.

Nomination Process

• Three candidates are presented for consideration: Gabriela Beltrán Muñoz, Paulo Salas Plúas, and Jaime Tejada Franco; all meet necessary qualifications for the role.

Discussion on Municipal Council Changes

Resignation of Dr. David Norero

• The speaker expresses regret over the resignation of Dr. David Norero, highlighting his significant contributions to the council and professionalism.

• Wishes good luck to Dr. Norero in his new role defending Mayor Aquiles Álvarez.

Support for New Secretary Appointment

• The speaker supports a motion by Councilor Arturo Scala regarding the appointment of a new secretary, emphasizing the qualifications of three candidates.

• Advocates for Jaime Tejada, citing his extensive experience and familiarity with municipal operations as essential for effective administration.

Collective Support for Motion

• Acknowledges support from other council members and community leaders present at the session.

• Emphasizes the need for unity among Guayaquil residents during challenging times, urging everyone to uphold civic responsibility.

Recognition of Jaime Tejada's Qualifications

• Councilor Ana Choiz reiterates her support for Jaime Tejada, noting his technical expertise and long-standing service in municipal roles.

• Another council member expresses gratitude towards David Norero while also supporting Arturo Scala’s motion.

Unanimous Approval of Motion

• The council votes unanimously in favor of appointing Jaime Tejada as the new secretary following a supportive discussion.

• Officially acknowledges the resignation of David Norero and confirms Jaime Tejada's appointment as Secretary General.

Jaime Tejada's Acceptance Speech

• Tejada thanks the council for considering him among qualified professionals and expresses confidence in fulfilling his responsibilities effectively.

• Reassures commitment to serve diligently based on past experiences within municipal functions.

Municipal Council Session Overview

Approval of Previous Minutes

• The session begins with the acknowledgment and resolution regarding the minutes from the extraordinary session number 156 held on February 11, 2026.

• Councilor Anita Fuentes motions for the approval of the detailed minutes, which is unanimously supported and approved by all council members.

License Request Discussion

• The council moves to point three of the agenda concerning a license request presented by Councilor Ana Fuentes Condoy.

• Councilor Manuel Romero proposes a motion to approve Ana Fuentes' license request, which is also unanimously accepted after being put to vote.

Important Legislative Debate

• The discussion transitions to point four, focusing on a second debate regarding an ordinance that regulates municipal authorization for land division and urbanization in Guayaquil.

• Councilor Emile Ibera emphasizes the significance of this law for Guayaquil and its implications for citizens across Ecuador.

Concerns Over Social Rights

• Ibera expresses concerns that this legislation threatens long-standing rights achieved by Guayaquil residents, including access to social services like education and health care.

• He warns that if passed, it could lead to an $80 million budget cut affecting essential public services in Guayaquil.

Call to Action for Citizens

• A public appeal is made urging citizens to defend their rightful resources as taxpayers contributing to city development.

• Ibera highlights how municipal programs have significantly improved quality of life through free access to sports and educational opportunities for children.

Risks Posed by Government Actions

• There are serious concerns about potential reductions in social programs due to government actions aimed at diminishing local governance capabilities.

• Ibera calls attention not only to council members but also beneficiaries of public policies who may be adversely affected if these legislative changes proceed.

Institutional Hostility Mentioned

• The speaker notes ongoing institutional hostility from the current government towards local authorities, particularly regarding efforts to provide basic services like potable water.

• This hostility has been persistent and poses challenges for effective governance in Guayaquil.

Guayaquil's Struggle for Resources and Identity

The Importance of Water Access

• Families in Guayaquil deserve the right to access vital resources like water, which was achieved after an 8-month struggle for a sovereign guarantee.

• The community has invested in recovering public spaces like Parque Samanes, which had been neglected by previous governments.

Government Relations and Local Pride

• Despite efforts to undermine local governance, the government retreated from taking control of Parque Samanes due to public pressure.

• Criticism is directed at Daniel Novoa for disrespecting Guayaquil's identity and pride; he is portrayed as disconnected from the city's values.

Commitment to Guayaquil

• Residents actively contribute to the city through taxes and are determined to defend their rights against perceived governmental neglect.

• Accusations against Novoa include claims that he harbors animosity towards Guayaquil and is willing to harm its interests, paralleling his actions on a national level.

Educational Infrastructure Concerns

• Questions are raised about Novoa’s commitment to improving state schools in Guayaquil, highlighting deteriorating educational facilities as a significant issue.

• The abandonment of community safety initiatives like Segure P is criticized, emphasizing the need for local investment in security measures amidst rising crime rates.

Defense of Local Governance

• A strong stance is taken against mismanagement by the central government; it is asserted that resources belong to Guayaquileños who will fight for their rightful allocation.

• The speaker emphasizes ongoing work within the municipality as essential for maintaining public services and projects despite external pressures.

Economic Development Initiatives

• A proposal for new regulations regarding urban development aims to address increased demand for real estate projects while ensuring economic growth in Guayaquil.

• Recognition of Guayaquil as Ecuador's economic capital underlines the importance of protecting local resources from governmental overreach or misappropriation.

Call for Unity Against Injustice

• A call is made for collective action among local leaders against laws perceived as detrimental to municipal funding across Ecuador, urging solidarity among mayors and council members.

Discussion on Governmental Issues and Local Autonomy

Critique of Illegal Actions by Authorities

• The speaker expresses disdain for lawyers who appear to collaborate with the government in illegal activities, emphasizing a lack of sympathy for them.

• A call is made to support the mayor, who is portrayed as a victim of governmental repression, highlighting the illegality of his situation.

Urgency for Action and Accountability

• There is frustration over the government's failure to deliver results despite raising VAT by 15%, with crime rates remaining high. The speaker urges immediate action for Ecuador's progress.

• A direct appeal is made to President Novoa, asking him to allow local authorities to work effectively and contribute positively to national growth.

Local Governance Challenges

• The speaker emphasizes that their administration provides security and progress but faces challenges from governmental interference, particularly in health services. They stress the need for collaboration during difficult times.

• Concerns are raised about proposed laws that threaten local governance autonomy, urging assembly members to recognize potential harm these changes could inflict on decentralized governments across Ecuador.

Legislative Concerns and Local Impact

• The urgency surrounding new legislation is criticized; it has been processed without adequate input from local leaders, risking essential services for citizens due to weakened local management capabilities.

• Emphasis is placed on fiscal responsibility and technical planning as vital components of effective governance while warning against centralization that undermines local authority rights enshrined in the constitution.

Call for Transparency and Efficient Resource Management

• The necessity for accountability regarding public spending is acknowledged; however, there are concerns about mismanagement affecting cities like Guayaquil that rely heavily on their own revenue streams.

• The speaker argues against viewing administrative adjustments as mere bureaucratic changes when they fundamentally impact how municipalities manage resources critical for citizen welfare. This highlights a broader concern about neglecting voices from those managing local territories amidst legislative discussions.

Impact of COTAD Reform on Guayaquil

Consequences of Budget Cuts

• The proposed reform will lead to budget cuts affecting cultural and sports programs in Guayaquil, impacting local governance and community services.

• Authorities emphasize that while they are temporary leaders, the city’s future is at stake with these financial adjustments.

Importance of Social Programs

• Many residents rely on municipal assistance for essential services; those who can afford private options may not grasp the significance of funding social programs.

• Working mothers benefit from municipal childcare centers, allowing them peace of mind while they work.

Vulnerable Populations at Risk

• The reform threatens support for vulnerable groups, including children in socio-sport schools and elderly citizens relying on municipal health services.

• Local initiatives provide critical opportunities for youth entrepreneurship, which could be jeopardized by budget cuts.

Control Over Decentralized Governments

• The reform is framed as a measure to prevent waste but is perceived as an attempt to control decentralized government resources more tightly.

• There is concern that the new budget allocation method will disadvantage smaller municipalities while still affecting larger cities like Guayaquil.

Call to Action Against Reform

• A strong rejection of the COTAD reform was expressed, urging national authorities to prioritize overdue allocations owed to decentralized governments.

• Citizens are encouraged to mobilize against this reform and hold politicians accountable during elections based on their actions regarding local governance issues.

Health Crisis in Prisons and Its Impact on Guayaquil

Urgency of Addressing Prison Health Issues

• The speaker highlights the lack of discussion about prison conditions affecting public health in Guayaquil, emphasizing that prisons impact the entire city due to disease spread risks.

Structural Failures in Public Health

• Neglecting health within prisons leads to broader public health crises; it’s a constitutional obligation that must be addressed urgently rather than normalized as a failure.

Responsibility Lies with Central Government

• The responsibility for prison health falls squarely on the central government; failures here have direct consequences for all citizens in Guayaquil.

Demand for Government Action

• Calls were made for proactive measures from the central government regarding transparency and prevention strategies related to public health within prisons.

Guayaquil's Institutional Challenges and Social Investment

Current Situation in Guayaquil

• La consejana Puyas addresses the challenges faced by Guayaquil, emphasizing the city's struggle with institutional integrity and its impact on public perception.

• She highlights that Guayaquil has maintained a reliable credit situation for over 20 years, fulfilling commitments to its citizens.

Concerns About Proposed Legislation

• Puyas expresses skepticism about a new law aimed at transparency, arguing it does not genuinely promote resource management as mandated by the Constitution.

• She stresses that resources belong to the citizens of Guayaquil, not the municipality or central government, pointing out that only 40% of funds come from governmental allocations.

Importance of Social Investment

• Puyas advocates for investments in health, culture, and sports as essential social investments rather than mere expenditures.

• She urges citizens to demand their rightful resources and notes an impending $80 million shortfall in health services due to budget cuts.

Call for Unity and Awareness

• The speaker calls for unity among citizens to support Guayaquil’s recovery and maintain institutional integrity amidst financial challenges.

• Puyas emphasizes the need for collective action from all residents to ensure continued progress in municipal projects.

Economic Impact of Reforms

• Consejal Cinta García questions whether an economic study exists regarding the impact of proposed reforms on employment and social programs within Guayaquil.

• She raises concerns about potential job losses and effects on subsidies for transportation, education, and healthcare services due to budget reductions.

Accountability in Resource Management

• García argues that if there are issues with budget management, accountability should fall on administrators rather than penalizing citizens through reduced funding.

• She points out disparities between municipalities regarding service provision while criticizing wasteful spending practices by some local governments.

Request for Clarity on Financial Implications

• García requests detailed figures regarding how much the proposed reform will affect city budgets so that residents can understand its implications clearly.

• The response indicates potential losses exceeding $80 million affecting various social programs previously successful in supporting community needs.

Impact of Budget Cuts on Social Programs

Concerns Over Scholarship Program Funding

• The speaker addresses the community regarding the scholarship program, highlighting a significant unmet demand that the municipality has been addressing. The potential extension of these scholarships is deemed impossible due to budget constraints, with estimates reaching up to $100 million.

Effects on Youth Sports and Arts Education

• Thousands of children involved in sports programs like Liga Proco will be adversely affected by funding cuts, reducing beneficiaries from thousands to potentially hundreds. This drastic impact raises concerns about the future of social projects, including arts education centers that provide essential skills to children from low-income sectors.

Questions About Future Administration and Budget Allocation

• There are pressing questions about what will happen if a new administration takes over after upcoming elections, particularly concerning ongoing social programs and their funding. The need for transparency regarding how budget cuts will affect specific areas is emphasized.

Legislative Implications on Social Services

• A call for public presentation detailing the effects of proposed legislation on social services is made, stressing that citizens should understand which programs may face cuts and how this impacts their access to essential services like education and training workshops.

Distinction Between Administrative and Structural Issues

• The speaker differentiates between administrative challenges and structural impacts caused by budget cuts, asserting that while technical aspects may be complex for citizens to grasp, they will clearly feel the consequences when programs become unsustainable due to lack of funding.

Reform Proposals Affecting Investment Classification

• Discussion includes a proposal for reform that reclassifies social investment versus current expenditure, indicating that only visible infrastructure projects are prioritized while neglecting personnel costs associated with vital services such as medical staff or sports trainers in educational settings. This could lead to operational failures in existing projects due to insufficient funding coverage.

Broader Context of Government Budget Priorities

• It is noted that these reforms primarily affect decentralized autonomous governments rather than central government budgets, which allocate substantial funds towards salaries in health care, education, and police services—highlighting disparities in budget management across different levels of government.

Discussion on Social Issues and Budget Cuts

Impact of Budget Reductions on Public Services

• The speaker argues that if budget cuts apply to one area, they should apply universally, suggesting that equitable funding could lead to more hospitals and schools.

• Conseja Romero emphasizes the urgency of addressing violence in Ecuador, noting that the country ranks among the most dangerous globally. He supports Emilia Rivera's point about the negative implications of budget reductions.

• The speaker predicts an increase in crime rates due to reduced budgets for social projects, which are essential for providing children with constructive activities during vacations.

• There is a national concern regarding how reforms to COOTAC will affect municipalities across Ecuador, highlighting that many parents rely on municipal services.

• The speaker calls for public support to maintain GAT budgets, stressing that fluctuations in oil revenue directly impact local government resources.

Concerns Over Legislative Reforms

• The speaker expresses total support for point number 4 regarding the second reform of COOTAC and protests against its implications for local governance.

• A unanimous vote was held to approve point 4 concerning urban planning regulations in Guayaquil, indicating strong consensus among council members.

Community Engagement and Political Activism

• Acknowledgment of community participation in recent protests supporting elected officials reflects a strong civic engagement among Guayaquileños advocating for their rights.

• The speaker highlights a significant protest event where citizens demanded respect for their elected mayor, emphasizing its political impact and resonance within the community.

• The shift of governmental sessions from Quito to Guayaquil is seen as a direct result of citizen activism, showcasing the power of public voice in influencing political decisions.

Critique of Government Actions

• Questions are raised about the government's approach towards Segure Pet; instead of cutting budgets, collaboration with local authorities could enhance security efforts effectively.

• The speaker criticizes perceived hypocrisy from government officials who seek budget cuts while simultaneously demanding resources from local entities.

Why is the Public Company Being Targeted?

Concerns Over Government Actions

• The speaker questions the rationale behind targeting a public company owned by the people of Guayaquil, suggesting that it reflects inefficiency in government monitoring systems.

• There is an accusation against local authorities for not collaborating with the mayor, implying their arrogance and failure to combat criminal groups effectively.

• The speaker warns that such actions may be a pretext for governmental overreach, hinting at potential future assaults on other institutions under similar pretenses.

Defense of Local Institutions

• Emphasizing the need to protect autonomous institutions, the speaker calls on council members to defend Guayaquil's interests against external threats.

• The argument is made that this issue transcends personal grievances; it’s about maintaining institutional integrity amidst government attempts to destabilize local governance.

The Impact of Proposed Reforms

Legislative Changes and Their Implications

• A motion regarding a reformative ordinance for municipal risk management and security has been introduced, indicating ongoing legislative discussions affecting local governance.

• Council member Fabián Espin expresses concern over proposed reforms that could undermine decentralized governments' autonomy and affect essential services provided to citizens.

Voices from Affected Communities

• The speaker addresses mothers who will lose access to child development centers due to these reforms, highlighting direct impacts on families.

• Farmers are also mentioned as being adversely affected by reduced support for agricultural initiatives due to budget reallocations mandated by new laws.

Autonomy Under Threat

Historical Context of Autonomy

• The discussion emphasizes that these reforms violate established social contracts between provinces and central governance, undermining historical autonomy agreements made during Ecuador's formation as a republic.

• The speaker criticizes government hypocrisy in claiming support for autonomy while proposing legislation that contradictorily infringes upon it, calling attention to public scrutiny of lawmakers’ actions.

Rejection of Police Repression

Call for Clarity Against Police Actions

• The speaker emphatically rejects police repression, highlighting instances of violence against peaceful protesters, including beatings and tear gas usage. They assert that the right to peaceful assembly should not be met with force by law enforcement.

• Emphasizes that public servants must prioritize citizen welfare and categorically denounces the actions of the National Police during recent protests in Guayas province.

Support for Protesters in Guayaquil

• The speaker welcomes all who courageously oppose government arbitrariness, particularly those from Guayaquil, indicating a collective stand against parliamentary majority decisions. They express anticipation to see which independent assembly members reveal their true positions.

Legislative Concerns and Government Overreach

• Discusses potential legislative maneuvers where neither the government nor opposition may have sufficient votes to pass or archive proposed laws, hinting at political maneuvering within the Ministry of Law.

• Critiques governmental discretion over autonomous government expenditures as arbitrary and calls for certification regarding procedures followed by national authorities concerning Segura EP's operations.

Issues Surrounding Segura EP Management

• Asserts that Segura EP is owned by the citizens of Guayaquil and emphasizes legal provisions governing interventions in autonomous governments, questioning whether proper procedures were followed during recent actions taken against it.

• Raises concerns about an irregular intervention involving the Prosecutor's Office and Ministry of Interior without appropriate oversight from recognized legal bodies like the National Competence Council. Calls for transparency on governmental communications regarding these actions.

Accountability in Municipal Security Operations

• Questions how municipal resources are being utilized post-intervention, stressing that there should not be permanent interventions according to law; once concluded, control must revert back to local governance structures.

• Highlights the importance of reviewing operational procedures related to Segura EP’s management and ensuring accountability towards citizens regarding resource utilization during this period of intervention.

Clarification on Intervention Procedures

• Requests clarity on what implications arise from current interventions at Segura EP, including operational capabilities moving forward and how its administration will function under new conditions established by recent events.

• Notes public concern regarding how facilities will be used following intervention and stresses adherence to constitutional mandates defining municipal competencies while maintaining focus on risk management within security operations at Segura EP.

What is Happening with Segura, EP?

Current Status of Segura, EP

• The staff at Segura, EP continues to work under the management of Alex Anchundia, who recently had to step away.

Coordination Efforts with National Police

• There have been ongoing attempts to coordinate efforts between the National Force and the National Police for several months, initiated by Mayor Keele Halber. This coordination was previously established but faced interruptions.

Community Concerns and Actions

• The speaker emphasizes their commitment to citizen welfare and opposes any lack of coordination that should have been in place from the beginning. They note that vehicles are now being utilized by both control agents and police.

Issues with Security Stations

• There were complaints regarding security stations lacking patrol vehicles due to abrupt changes in operations. Community councils expressed dissatisfaction over losing previously gained security resources.

Investment in Technology for Security

• Guayaquil has invested significantly in surveillance technology and monitoring centers due to public safety concerns. The current collaboration aims to restore security levels as stated by Minister Rainer.

Concerns Over Government Actions

Lack of Transparency in Operations

• A council member raised questions about whether there was documentation supporting the forced takeover of facilities, indicating a lack of new developments compared to previous administrations.

Extraordinary Circumstances Surrounding Facility Use

• The only notable change mentioned is that a legal agreement is being formed for using the facilities; otherwise, operations remain similar to past practices.

Call for Proper Procedures

Need for Organized Collaboration

• A council member criticized the abrupt nature of recent actions taken without proper organization or collaboration with local authorities like police and military forces.

Financial Resources for Local Agents

• Concerns were raised about funding sources for newly graduated municipal traffic control agents and how they will be compensated while contributing to Guayaquil's safety efforts.

Protests Against Government Overreach

Demand for Respectful Collaboration

• Council members express frustration over government actions perceived as overreaching. They advocate for collaborative efforts conducted respectfully rather than through forceful measures.

Concerns Over Municipal Resources

Resource Allocation and Responsibilities

• The speaker expresses concern regarding the management of municipal resources by the GAD, emphasizing that these resources are crucial for fulfilling exclusive competencies related to public order and compliance with municipal ordinances.

• The speaker commends the mayor's conciliatory approach, highlighting the importance of open communication despite ongoing challenges related to legal interventions affecting resource allocation.

• A technical committee is proposed to clarify procedures and legal instruments necessary for managing municipal resources effectively, as they are essential for executing local actions.

Security Competencies

• The speaker clarifies that national defense and internal security are state responsibilities, indicating a need for formal agreements to ensure technological support while maintaining proper jurisdictional boundaries.

• There is an emphasis on vigilance from the council regarding citizen safety, noting ongoing reports of crime despite allocated resources aimed at enhancing security measures.

Addressing Violence and Crime

• The urgency to unite against violence and organized crime is stressed; acknowledging that these issues pose significant threats to community safety.

• Support for a motion is expressed among council members, leading to unanimous approval of a proposal aimed at addressing these pressing concerns.

Municipal Governance and Development Plans

Approval of Development Ordinance

• The council moves forward with approving an ordinance related to urban planning and development strategies aligned with national objectives from 2025 to 2029.

Leadership in Challenging Times

• Acknowledgment of strong leadership during complex times is made; emphasizing unity, responsibility, and prioritizing citizens' welfare as essential components in governance.

• Solidarity with the mayor is expressed, reinforcing commitment towards stability in Guayaquil amidst pressures faced by local government officials.

Critique of Recent Actions

• Concerns are raised about recent law enforcement actions perceived as unnecessary; stressing that cooperation has always been present from municipal authorities towards improving security efforts.

Planning Alignment with National Goals

• A motion is introduced aiming to enhance coherence between local planning initiatives and existing national policies; this reform seeks improved project evaluation processes contributing towards sustainable development goals.

Municipal Council Meeting Highlights

Approval of Agenda Items

• The meeting commenced with the acknowledgment of 15 council members present, confirming a quorum for voting.

• A motion presented by council member Juanita Montero was unanimously approved, allowing the agenda item regarding municipal property to proceed.

• Council member Terri Alvarez emphasized Guayaquil's resilience during crises and supported the democratic process led by Mayor Tatiana Coronel.

Discussion on Municipal Property Category Change

• Alvarez proposed a motion to change the category of a specific municipal property due to environmental safety concerns, advocating for its reclassification as private property.

• The motion was seconded and subsequently passed unanimously, reflecting strong support among council members.

Reforming the Ethics Code

• The next agenda item involved discussing reforms to the Ethics Code of Guayaquil’s municipal government, aimed at enhancing public integrity and preventing conflicts of interest.

• Council member Soledad raised concerns about ensuring that the code reflects gender equality and inclusivity, highlighting issues such as visibility for women in language used within the document.

Key Proposals for Ethical Standards

• Soledad suggested that ethical standards should not only list administrative duties but also address real societal issues like gender-based violence and harassment in workplaces.

• She called for explicit prohibitions against sexual harassment and workplace bullying, emphasizing that ethics must include preventive measures rather than just punitive actions after incidents occur.

Leadership Responsibilities in Ethics

• It was proposed that leadership roles should actively promote gender parity in decision-making processes.

• The establishment of an internal justice system within the Ethics Committee was recommended to ensure investigations into violence are handled sensitively and protect victims effectively.

Discussion on Ethical Priorities in Governance

Emphasis on Integrity and Equality

• A speaker highlights the importance of passing a code that prioritizes integrity and equality for public servants, indicating that these values are ethical priorities for the council.

• The speaker requests the Human Talent Directorate to adopt all recommended changes, emphasizing collective support from fellow council members.

Approval of Agenda Items

• The motion presented by Councilor Yuli Álvarez was unanimously approved, reflecting strong consensus among council members regarding agenda item 8.

• The discussion moves to agenda item 9 concerning the resolution of 33 family heritage extinguishment processes, with Councilor Shirley Aldous taking the floor.

Unity Amidst Challenges

Support for Leadership

• Councilor Aldous expresses unwavering support for Mayor Aquiles Álvarez amidst external pressures, asserting their commitment to work together despite challenges.

• Another council member motions to address the same agenda item, reinforcing solidarity among colleagues in supporting local governance.

Clarification of Intentions

• Councilor Arturo Escalda seeks to clarify rumors about his intentions within the council, reaffirming loyalty to Mayor Álvarez as the legitimately elected leader.

• He emphasizes a focus on addressing poverty and enhancing social services rather than engaging in political maneuvering.

Call for Resilience and Action

Philosophical Reflection

• Citing Argentine philosopher Arturo Jauretche, a speaker reflects on societal dynamics where losing privileges breeds resentment while gaining rights fosters joy.

Urging Collective Resistance

• A call is made for municipalities across Ecuador to stand firm against budget cuts and maintain service delivery despite adversities faced by local governments.

Historical Context and Current Challenges

• Acknowledgment of current difficulties faced by Guayaquil's leadership is made; it’s described as one of the most complex periods in recent history.

Discussion on Unity and Governance in Guayaquil

Emphasizing Courage and Unity

• The speaker highlights the importance of unity among council members, emphasizing that their collective courage is essential for addressing challenges faced by Guayaquil.

• Acknowledges the presence of various political factions within the council, including the "revolución ciudadana" and PCC, but stresses a united front for the benefit of Guayaquil.

Commitment to Public Safety and Rights

• The speaker asserts that public safety should not be politicized; it is a fundamental right that must be upheld without partisan bias.

• Calls out those who exploit crises for personal gain, urging council members to focus on constructive actions rather than divisive politics.

Focus on Community Development

• Plans to engage with community projects such as inaugurating parks and verifying social service programs are outlined, demonstrating a commitment to ongoing development despite challenges.

• The speaker reflects on their belief in sports as a vital tool for social change, celebrating Guayaquil's designation as the American Capital of Sport in 2026.