Escaldes-Engordany Approves Budget Shift and Small Business Tax Cuts

Escaldes-Engordany parish council approved shifting €4,955,849.53 from the 2025 to the 2026 budget during Thursday's session, primarily to cover outstanding invoices for the Plaça de l'Església and Falgueró parking facilities, which have a combined cost of nearly €15 million. Deputy Consul and Finance Councillor Quim Dolsa explained that the funds break down into €4,463,969.70 for capital works—generally lower than initial contract estimates—and €491,879.83 for operating expenses. Opposition Councillor Gemma Bofarull said her group abstained, in line with its budget position.

Councillors unanimously approved 25% reductions on key taxes and fees for small businesses and professionals, identical to last year's initiative. The cuts apply to business registration, commercial signage installation, public hygiene services, lighting, and terrace setup. Eligible applicants—individuals or entities with activity permits dating back to 2023 or earlier, 2025 revenues below €150,000 for professional or service activities or €300,000 for strictly retail operations, no outstanding local tax debts—must submit IGI declarations and applications to the parish's Tràmits service by June 30.

Consul Major Rosa Gili emphasised the council's ongoing commitment to neighbourhood commerce and local services. Opposition Councillor Gabriel Guerrero supported the measures for this vital sector but called for a detailed report on last year's grants, including distribution by zones, districts, and business types, noting they were awarded on March 20, 2025, to evaluate impact and refine future programmes. A separate source mentioned opposition Councillor Anna Garcia making a similar request.

The session also saw unanimous approval for a €110,000-€111,000 credit supplement to purchase a new snowplough truck, raising its total cost to about €230,000. Services Councillor Marc González stressed the need amid the fleet's 23-25-year average age, frequent breakdowns, and a harsh winter. The council had already allocated €173,000 originally but spent €46,000 urgently on blades and salt spreaders for two pick-up vehicles.