Arona Council Faces Scrutiny Over €2.1 Million Property Budget Allocation
Arona’s local government is facing scrutiny from the opposition over a proposed 2.1 million euro budget allocation for property acquisition, which officials defend as a necessary measure to secure facilities for the expanded Local Police force.
The management of municipal assets in Arona is back in the spotlight following reports from Diario de Avisos regarding a potential real estate deal in Valle San Lorenzo. The controversy centers on a 2.1 million euro budget allocation, which the Socialist Group in the City Council has questioned due to a significant price difference compared to a previous transaction involving the same property.
The opposition points to a suspicious timeline. Councilwoman Raquel García noted that the administrative file was opened on October 8, 2025, and just five weeks later, on November 14, the property was purchased by a private investor. The Socialists argue that because the premises had sat empty for a decade, the speed of the process lacks transparency. They have also criticized the lack of a public bidding process, official appraisals, and technical reports to justify the investment.
In response, the governing coalition—made up of the PP, CC, and Vox—has denied that any purchase has been finalized. Municipal officials explained that the 2.1 million euro allocation is simply a "credit authorization," an accounting measure that ensures the City Council has the funds available for future acquisitions, rather than a commitment to a specific property.
The local government maintains that this funding is necessary to address an urgent need for more space for the Local Police. Following the addition of 31 new officers, the Council says it needs to find temporary facilities while permanent infrastructure is developed. Officials argue that because they have not yet selected a specific property, there was no need for appraisals or technical reports at this stage, dismissing claims that the process was manipulated.