Last plenary session of a veteran politician
This Friday, July 26, the city of Barcelona is preparing to close a significant chapter with the farewell of Xavier Trias, who was mayor between 2011 and 2015 and has served as a councilor from 2003 to 2019. His last plenary session, which coincides With an act full of emotional meaning, it marks the end of a rich public career.
Trias and his attempt to return to the mayor’s office
After winning the municipal elections in May 2023, Trias saw his dream of returning to the mayor’s office frustrated due to a complicated vote that gave power to Jaume Collboni. Although he initially decided to leave his post, the process has taken longer than expected, in search of clarity on the governability of the city.
A legacy remembered by his collaborators
Jordi Martí, a close ally of Trias and current spokesman for the municipal group, stressed his dedication to the city, highlighting his long career as a public servant and his collaborative spirit, even in difficult circumstances. According to Martí, Trias stands out as one of the most outstanding mayors of Barcelona, being compared to the famous Pasqual Maragall.
Restructuring within the municipal group
With Trias’ departure, there will be a reconfiguration in the municipal group, where Jordi Martí will assume the presidency and Neus Munté will be the new spokesperson. Carme Lleó will occupy the empty seat, thus continuing the political career of the formation, which will soon change its name, probably to Junts per Catalunya.
Important debates in the plenary
Trias’ final plenary session will be marked by crucial votes, including an increase in the tourist tax to four euros per night. This proposal, previously supported in a session, seeks to formalize the measure completely in the coming months.
Opposition proposals
In turn, different political forces, such as ERC and PP, will present initiatives aimed at tourism. While ERC will propose that Barcelona lead an international group for responsible tourism, the PP will seek adjustments to the urban plan that regulates tourist accommodation.
Language and housing initiatives
In the framework of the plenary session, TriasXBCN will advocate for a greater boost to the use of Catalan and will propose resuming a package of measures aimed at its promotion. In addition, the Comuns will propose a special plan on tourist rentals to protect the right to housing, and will request the prompt start of works on the tram, a continuation of a project already underway.
The event promises to be a turning point that will not only close a cycle for Trias, but will also lay the foundations for municipal policy in the years to come.