Colón officials clash over waste management contract extension

The Municipal Council of Colón has approved a project to extend the contract for Aguaseo, the company responsible for solid waste collection, which is currently set to expire in April 2027. The decision, passed with nine votes in favor and five against, could potentially extend the concession for an additional 20 years.

Mayor Diógenes Galván has announced his intention to veto the measure and pursue legal action, labeling the agreement unconstitutional. Galván argued that the extension is being sought almost directly and expressed a commitment to ensuring district cleanliness through a different established route.

Opposition from representatives, such as Carlos De la Rosa of Puerto Pilón, highlighted service deficiencies as a primary reason for voting against the extension. Critics argued that any future contract should be awarded through a new competitive bidding process rather than a direct extension, noting that the company has failed to improve service despite claims of needing more time.