Transformation of the Cleaning Service
In a significant decision for municipal management, the Ametlla City Council has chosen to municipalize the cleaning of its facilities, a service that until now was managed by the company Ilunion. The proposal was supported by the Ametlla’t and ERC government team, while Junts expressed its disagreement.
Contract Context and Implications
Ilunion obtained the contract for this service in a public tender in 2015, which was extended until 2021. Since then, the company has operated without a new award, which has caused several legal issues within the framework of the municipal intervention. Dolors Ferrer, spokesperson for Junts, commented: ‘We applaud the legal regularization of cleaning, although we do not agree with the model chosen.’
Reasons Behind Municipalization
The mayor, Jan Santaló, defended the decision to municipalize the service, highlighting the economic savings it will entail. According to his statements, the City Council will avoid paying the industrial benefit that corresponds to the private company, as well as VAT, which translates into a saving of approximately 22,000 euros per year. Mònica Castell, spokesperson for ERC, added that ‘the savings are good news for the municipality.’
Implementation and Human Resources
The new management of the service will come into effect on January 1, with Cuidem l’Ametlla taking on between 10 and 11 Ilunion workers, in addition to the head of service. Thus, the municipal company will take charge of cleaning a wide range of facilities, including schools, libraries and public spaces such as swimming pools and the Local Police station.
Increasing the Capacity of Cuidem l’Ametlla
With this new responsibility, Cuidem l’Ametlla will increase its dedication, going from 75% to 100%. Junts and ERC stressed the importance of taking this aspect into account when evaluating real savings.
Development of Works and Waste Management
Regarding the renovation works of the Municipal Hall, Santaló reported that Bluedec, the original construction company, has filed an administrative dispute after the termination of the contract due to non-compliance with deadlines. The new company in charge is making progress on the project, and the mayor highlighted that, in one month, they have achieved the same progress as Bluedec in months.
Initiatives for Waste Collection
In addition, a new minor contract has been awarded to define the waste collection model. The installation of closed containers in the urban center and smart boxes in the neighborhoods is being considered. ‘We are evaluating this mixed model in a study that will be very important for the future,’ concluded Santaló.
