Local political disputes arise in Vigo and Ourense over public spending

Political tensions are rising in the Spanish cities of Vigo and Ourense regarding local government spending and administrative management.

In Vigo, the People's Party (PP) has accused Mayor Abel Caballero's administration of failing to apply for 3.5 million euros in state aid intended to subsidize urban bus fares via the PassVigo card. This funding would have supported free travel for children under 15 and significant discounts for youths and other passengers. The PP also warned that the city risks losing an additional 1.9 million euros earmarked for Low Emission Zones (ZBE) if requirements are not met by late 2025.

In Ourense, Mayor Gonzalo Pérez Jácome faces criticism from opposition parties, including the PSOE and BNG, following the announcement of a 10-million-euro commerce voucher program. The initiative would provide approximately 100 euros to each registered family member to spend at local businesses. Opposition leaders have questioned whether the expenditure is a legitimate economic investment or an attempt to secure votes ahead of municipal elections, noting that the proposal includes an unfavorable report regarding municipal financial stability.