Arona Tow Truck Service Halted Following Contract Expiration

Arona’s municipal tow truck service is under fire after the local Socialist Group warned that the service has ground to a halt, threatening both traffic flow and public safety. The contract for the service expired on April 4, and the current governing coalition—made up of the PP, CC, and Vox—has yet to finalize a new tender. As a result, the service is now severely limited, with no coverage available during nighttime hours.

This lack of resources is hampering the Local Police. Without tow trucks at night, officers cannot address common issues, such as vehicles blocking private garages or illegally occupying spaces reserved for people with reduced mobility. Furthermore, the inability to remove abandoned cars or respond quickly to traffic accidents and breathalyzer checks has left a significant gap in road safety.

Socialist councilor Francisco Marichal argues that the issue isn't bad driver behavior, but the local government’s failure to provide the tools needed to enforce city ordinances. The group’s spokesperson, José Julián Mena, blamed the situation on Mayor Fátima Lemes, claiming she failed to plan ahead for the contract's expiration.

This situation highlights the critical need for proper planning in public procurement. Under the Public Sector Contracts Law, local governments must manage bidding timelines carefully to ensure essential services continue without interruption. According to these complaints, Arona has failed to meet this standard, leaving the municipality without a vital tool for managing traffic and maintaining order.