Valencia Mayor announces 93 initiatives during State of the City debate

During the annual State of the City debate in Valencia, Mayor María José Catalá announced approximately 93 initiatives aimed at housing, security, and environmental management. Key proposals include the construction of 390 public homes, the planting of 10,000 trees, and the installation of surveillance cameras in Ciutat Vella and El Saler. The Mayor also outlined plans for a heatwave resilience program and new measures to regulate tourist apartments, including potential fines of 1,500 euros for anti-social behavior.

The debate saw intense political friction. Representatives from Vox defended their three-year management, highlighting employment and budget execution. Conversely, opposition members from PSPV and Compromís criticized the administration, arguing that current policies favor mass tourism and market speculation at the expense of local residents. They expressed concerns regarding the city’s social and climatic emergencies.

Recent heavy rainfall also impacted the city, causing infrastructure damage such as a collapsed wall at the Bartolomé Cossío school. While the administration highlighted its emergency protocols and proactive maintenance of riverbeds, opposition members questioned the government's response to recent weather-related incidents.