Following the decision of the Nice administrative court regarding his eligibility, Pierre Ippolito announced an appeal to the Council of State. The deputy mayor of Éric Ciotti intends to remain in office during the duration of the proceedings and continue his duties within the municipality and the Nice Côte d’Azur Metropolis.
The administrative court issued its decision this Friday, October 9, regarding the appeals concerning Pierre Ippolito’s eligibility, fourth deputy mayor of Nice in charge of businesses, commerce, economic development and higher education. Following this decision, the elected official announced his intention to appeal to the Council of State.
Two appeals had been filed, notably by the Alpes-Maritimes prefecture and Marc Concas, a former member of Christian Estrosi’s team. The case concerned Pierre Ippolito’s professional activities, a business owner whose several companies work with the Nice Côte d’Azur Metropolis.
The magistrates retained the qualification of “municipal service contractor,” a category that can lead to ineligibility. Companies from his group notably supply trucks used for garbage collection and provide maintenance of the platforms for the Nice carnival floats.
Pierre Ippolito contests this decision and now wishes to have the case examined by France’s highest administrative court. In his statement, the deputy mayor states: “I take note of the decision rendered today by the Administrative Court; I will appeal to the Council of State. I have full confidence in justice and in the highest administrative court to examine this case.”
The elected official also clarifies that he wishes to retain his duties during the proceedings. “I will remain in office throughout the duration of this proceeding, in accordance with the provisions of the electoral code, and will continue to fully assume the responsibilities entrusted to me,” states Pierre Ippolito.
The deputy mayor intends to continue his work on economic matters, commerce, higher education and Nice’s attractiveness while awaiting the Council of State’s decision. This means that his planned replacement in the municipal council by Jean-Marie Benguettat and in the metropolitan council by Alexandre Saradjian is suspended.
Éric Ciotti defends his deputy’s eligibility
The mayor of Nice, Éric Ciotti, reacted to the administrative court’s decision by reaffirming his support for Pierre Ippolito. “I am pleased that the administrative court validated the municipal election in Nice and thus confirmed the choice made by the people of Nice on March 22, which Christian Estrosi had decided to contest in court after his defeat at the polls,” said the president of the Nice Côte d’Azur Metropolis.
Éric Ciotti added: “I remain convinced of Pierre Ippolito’s eligibility. I therefore now place my trust in the Council of State, the highest administrative court in our country, to examine this question and to allow him, I hope, to continue his commitment in the service of the people of Nice and the residents of the Metropolis.”
Beyond his personal situation, Pierre Ippolito also intends to defend the place of business owners and representatives of civil society in public life. “The commitment of men and women from business, the economy and civil society is an asset for public life. Their experience, expertise and knowledge of the ground should be able to serve the general interest,” emphasizes the deputy mayor.
The elected official believes that the rules governing eligibility should not discourage professionals from engaging in public affairs. “As for me, I will not renounce either my commitment or my convictions,” he assures.
The proceedings now continue before the Council of State, which will have to examine the arguments presented in this case within the next six months.
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