Local governance updates in Mazarefes and Funchal

In Mazarefes, Nuno Rocha has completed his first year as president of the Parish Council. Originally elected by the AD, Rocha recently chose to continue his local leadership without party affiliation, stating that decisions should prioritize the interests of Mazarefes over political origins. His administration is focusing on reorganizing services and developing infrastructure, including moving the council headquarters to a former primary school, establishing a nursery, and creating after-school programs.

In Funchal, the municipal executive is marking one year of its 2025–2029 mandate. Key developments include the hiring of over 200 new employees, primarily in the environmental sector. To address housing challenges, the city approved a Local Housing Strategy involving 40 million euros to construct 300 homes by 2029. Construction is currently underway for 23 units in Bairro da Ponte, with additional projects planned for Quinta das Freiras, Canto do Muro III, and other local areas. The administration is also working on a Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan.