On Tuesday, February 20, 2024, the Metropolitan Council was held at the CUM. Christian Estrosi outlined the city’s budgetary orientations, highlighting four major objectives.
During his speech, Christian Estrosi first emphasized the importance of controlling operating expenses. This was followed by maintaining public service offerings at an optimal level. The third objective aims to invest in initiatives conducive to economic growth and employment in order to support social and economic cohesion. Finally, the fourth priority is to ensure territorial solidarity.
Righting the Ship
The presentations were followed by a series of speeches, including one by Philippe Pradel, the Commission president. He recalled the financial challenges the Nice Côte d’Azur metropolis has faced in recent years, primarily due to an unstable international climate and the economic repercussions of the global health crisis: during the Covid-19 pandemic, 100 million euros were utilized. Not to mention geopolitical tensions.
Philippe Pradel also mentioned the necessity of budgeting for the consequences of climate disruptions, citing the Alex and Aline storms as recent examples. A budget of 220 million euros had been allocated to manage the damages and relief work for the two storms. He stressed the importance of preparing for potential future natural disasters.
In response to concerns raised by some speakers, notably Juliette Chenel from the Green group, regarding the housing issue, the authorities took note of the expressed concerns and committed to studying these issues closely.
Finally, the session members unanimously adopted the proposed budgetary and financial regulations. This marks an agreement on the city’s financial orientations for the coming year.
