A new economic horizon for Badia del Vallès
The Generalitat of Catalonia has taken a significant step towards improving the economic situation of Badia del Vallès, one of the cities with the lowest income in the region. In a meeting held between the Minister of the Presidency, Albert Dalmau, and the mayor Josep Martínez, an increase in the municipality's specific funding was announced, reaching 4.1 million euros. This increase of one million euros represents a growth of 7.34% per inhabitant and aims to alleviate the economic difficulties faced by this locality.
Badia del Vallès is distinguished by its compact size of just 0.9 km², which limits its possibilities for expansion and economic development. According to Mayor Martínez, this urban uniqueness has led to a critical dependence on the Property Tax (IBI) as the main source of income. Despite having one of the highest tax rates in Catalonia, the collection is insufficient due to low cadastral values.
To address this financial challenge, the City Council sought the collaboration of Professor Joaquim Soler, an expert in Local Finances. His analysis led to the establishment of a new method for calculating funding that considers both the standard IBI and the specific characteristics of similar municipalities in the metropolitan area. This scientific approach has been key to updating the funding that has been frozen since 2015.
Aside from the financial boost, Badia del Vallès is also committed to improving public health by eliminating asbestos from its buildings. Since 2021, the City Council has had a grant of 4.5 million euros aimed at financing critical operations to encapsulate and remove this hazardous material. The first phase is already underway and affects 127 neighbourhood communities.
Dalmau highlighted that this agreement not only addresses an economic need but also responds to a “historical demand” from the citizens. Councillor Eva Menor emphasized that the commitment to Badia is being fulfilled by providing the municipality with a stable financial system that considers both income and expenses.
As the project against asbestos progresses, a second phase is expected to begin, covering an additional 38 buildings. Mayor Martínez proudly stated that “Badia will be the first European city free of asbestos,” marking an important milestone not only for its inhabitants but also as a model for other cities facing the same problem.
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