Even though 20 days have passed since January, this year’s budget for the Provincial Assembly remains unfinished. The president, Toni Pérez, cites negotiations with the opposition and delays in responses from other political groups as the reason for the holdup. The PP’s provincial leader rejects claims that he is paralyzing the institution and notes that being mayor of a city like Benidorm makes it difficult to lead the Provincial Council at the same time.
At what stage is the budget preparation?
There are groups that chose a different path after receiving the draft and being invited to contribute ideas. The document is close to finalization because proposals were received this week. It is surprising when a government with an absolute majority presents a draft for discussion and the deadline is extended without any input. Ultimately, all recommendations will be analyzed and the budget will be presented at the general assembly meeting.
Opposition spokespeople blame the lack of dialogue on the government, correct?
I did not just propose dialogue. An agreement was reached, hands were shaken, and then they voted against it. No one will hear a bad word from me. The aim was never to confront. Everyone is free to express their views. The path drawn ensures every voice in the Provincial Council is heard and considered.
So January 20 has passed and the budget remains awaiting approval?
It has been difficult since before year’s end. Some municipal and provincial councils still do not know how spending rules should be applied, particularly regarding residuals, sustainability, and fiscal balances.
Doesn’t the Provincial Council have a budget because of the government?
The speaker did not indicate that, and there is no budget yet because negotiations with the opposition are ongoing. The draft has covered much of January. The governing logic remains that an absolute majority does not exclude dialogue. Each group knows what it is proposing and the timing of any intervention is clear.
Are you suggesting the delay stems from the opposition’s slow responses?
Yes, responses have arrived, but this is a substantial document with extensive analysis. The desire for dialogue is strong and every proposal is examined in detail. Some groups have known the offer for weeks because discussions have continued with the vice president. It is appropriate to ask what is being communicated to Alicante residents through the media.
But the reality is that governance operates with a simple majority in the County Council, and the budget waits until later. This differs from the previous period when a coalition held power.
Absolute majority is understood through ongoing dialogue. If the opposition wanted quick action, proposals could have been delivered in September or October. What matters is not the draft’s timing but the ability to respond to proposals as they come in. Some groups have chosen one strategy while others have prepared detailed measures ready for translation into policy.
Is there a date set for the general assembly where the budget will be presented?
February 7 is the target. Some documents from other groups were not ready by Thursday, but plenary sessions are scheduled for the first Wednesday of each month.
PSPV and Commitments say the Provincial Assembly is paralyzed. Is that true?
This claim does not hold. There is a broad challenge for administrations and for groups that have little political flag left to rally behind. The budget process is moving forward on important issues, and no group should be blamed for delaying its input. The draft was available when ready, and a Finance Commission meeting could have been called in a simple majority, but the decision was to proceed with caution.
From experience, can being mayor of Benidorm be combined with leading the County Council?
Yes. The responsibilities are manageable with adequate effort. Benidorm is a busy city with diverse political governance, and it has consistently demonstrated leadership capacity.
The Provincial Council, led by Mazón, has been noted for a combative stance on issues like water or the Cooperation Fund. Will that tone persist?
Stances and participation align with personal political engagement, but the institution often faces aggressive scrutiny. Harmony on many projects is possible, and the previous friction is being replaced with cooperation. The aim is not to frame this as a political color issue but to adhere to a constructive dialogue. A door was once closed, but it has been opened through meetings with Mazón, and an ally has emerged who was previously in a different camp.
What is the status of the Alicante Congress Palace project?
Seventy-six proposals were reviewed by the jury. The best projects will be chosen by the technicians for implementation, including selection, bidding, and execution.
In August 2023, the first results were promised for November; what caused the delay?
With 136 projects to evaluate, the volume is substantial. Many are of high quality, and rushing a decision would be imprudent. Administrative deadlines and common sense require a careful, qualified jury to determine the best path forward.
So the delay is due to higher-than-expected complexity?
Yes. The leadership is committed to managing this political obligation within the law. Pressuring the jury would be inappropriate, and the decision will be made when it is appropriate. Discussions will continue from there.
«Being in Fitur is compatible with the digitalization of tourism”
Toni Pérez analyzes the sector at the gate of the new edition of the tourism fair and emphasizes the need for a second runway at the airport
What projects have guided Fitur from the Alicante Provincial Council?
As the Provincial Council, the duty is to support all tourism products, both private and corporate, under the Costa Blanca brand. This year 33 municipalities are represented with brands such as Benidorm and Alicante. Core objectives focus on accessibility, sustainability, and innovation. The Costa Blanca brand should have a strong presence.
Is there still a need for fairs in a highly digital era?
Fairs remain compatible, necessary, and complementary. Promotion, planning, and research occur year-round, while events like Fitur or the World Travel Market in London help broaden reach. A smart strategy segments promotion, targets destinations, and uses specific messaging for venues like Fitur.
Is there too much ostentation at Fitur?
That view isn’t shared. Brands and destinations invest seriously. People attend food and technology fairs to showcase, connect, and build partnerships. Tourism mirrors this—private sector participants at Fitur can be allies for the Provincial Council. When a company adds new routes, it signals purpose beyond a single fair.
Tourism volume in the province has surpassed 10 million. What does that indicate?
Tourism is a driver of activity, differentiation, and opportunity in a competitive global landscape. It demonstrates how vibrant the region can be when a concerted effort aligns promotion with reality on the ground.
The airport serves nearly 16 million passengers annually, yet the second runway remains unbuilt. Are you concerned?
Air traffic funnels a substantial revenue stream into state coffers. The priority is to ensure adequate capacity and connectivity. A second runway would address demand and support growth, not merely respond to a current shortfall. Leadership should plan for growth rather than react to pressure.
Is there consensus on rail or air connections?
Consensus is limited to who pays and who authorizes. Solid nodes, rail links, and well-connected roads exist in many destinations. Arriving by air should not take longer than docking at a connected hub. Opportunities must be built on solid infrastructure and shared responsibility.
Could a direct Alicante to United States air link be feasible?
Yes, it is feasible and desirable. The market is attractive, and such a connection would open transatlantic opportunities. It could become a pioneering step for business, industry, and international relations, expanding access to the American market.
What is the stance on tourist accommodation and regulation?
Tourist stays have been a regional strength since development began. Regulations should clarify the role of temporary residences and ensure they contribute to the public good and tax base. The private sector should be supported while maintaining balance with community needs.
How does this affect housing prices?
Public housing policies are essential because long-term, transparent, publicly funded housing has lagged under some administrations. Responsibility is shared, and everyone must contribute. If tourism grows without adequate housing, prices will reflect the imbalance and the public gains will be missed.