The Municipal Executive of São Brás de Alportel, led by president Marlene Guerreiro, presented on Monday, November 2nd, at Praça 1914, a detailed balance of its first year in office. The meeting with the press addressed completed investments, projects in preparation, and challenges faced, with a particular emphasis on rigorous financial management given a municipal budget exceeding 30 million euros, but with state transfers representing only about 20%.
The mandate's priorities include health, housing, solidarity, education, security, and economic development. In health, the completion of the Villa Family Health Unit was highlighted, with an investment of 2.825 million euros, partly financed by the PRR. Equipment installation is pending, and the Municipality is seeking new services like cardiology and psychiatry through the Algarve 2030 Regional Program.
Housing is another priority area, with a construction project for 15 units and houses in preparation, applying for the Algarve 2030 program with an estimated investment of 4 million euros. In education, the expansion work at the Joaninhas Kindergarten, exceeding 2 million euros, was emphasized. Family support measures, such as the Baby Bonus and scholarships, were also mentioned.
Security was enhanced with the refurbishment of the GNR barracks. For economic development, investments to boost the Business Park are being considered. Councilor Mónica Inácio highlighted the refurbishment of Praça 1914 and the second phase of the Urban Center refurbishment, with interventions in sidewalks, infrastructure, and lighting. Investments in water and sanitation networks were also discussed, with ongoing works in Mesquita and planned for Machados.
Vice-president Pedro Ornelas addressed financial management, criticizing the Local Finance Law. São Brás de Alportel remains below the debt limit, allowing for housing investment. The Municipality has secured significant funding through Algarve 2020 (8.5 million euros) and Algarve 2030 (5.2 million already assured, with potential for 20 million), in addition to approximately 4.5 million from the PRR for the Municipality.
In the area of associativism, over 700 thousand euros were allocated to associations in 2026. In sports, increased government investment for facilities was requested. Animal welfare was also highlighted, with 252 electronic identifications and 580 sterilizations performed. Youth engagement was boosted through the Young Municipal Assembly and the Youth Awards. Administrative modernization and civic participation, with initiatives like Open Presidency, were also noted.
The review of the Municipal Master Plan (PDM) was discussed by president Marlene Guerreiro, who advocated for reform in land-use planning law to address challenges of harmonious growth and attracting businesses and residents. The first year in office is marked by completed interventions, ongoing projects, and new investments, focusing on quality of life and opportunities for São Brás de Alportel.
