MÉS per Palma has described the 2027 municipal budget presented by the People's Party (PP) and Mayor José Martínez as a "political and management failure". The party's spokesperson, Neus Truyol, has denounced that the budget neglects the main concerns of Palma's residents, including housing, mobility, and the impacts of tourism overcrowding.
Truyol stated, "Martínez presents a failed budget. Zero euros for public housing, zero euros to combat speculation, and no real commitment to sustainable mobility." MÉS has pointed out that there are no new investments planned to expand BiciPalma, construct bike lanes, or install charging points for electric vehicles. In contrast, the budget for tourism promotion exceeds €1.5 million, with spending on tourism-related advertising and events increasing by 1,600%.
"People cannot afford rent, young people cannot become independent, and moving around Palma is becoming increasingly difficult. Yet the PP prefers to spend more money attracting even more tourists. Martínez governs with his back to the residents," Truyol asserted.
MÉS also believes the budget reflects the PP's inability to implement its own projects. Notable initiatives lacking funding include the renovation of Plaza Mayor, the fairgrounds, and the transformation of GESA into public facilities. There are also no budget allocations for converting the Lluís Sitjar grounds into a park and public facilities.
Truyol remarked, "Everyone remembers Mayor Martínez making promises in Camp Redó, yet there is not a single euro allocated throughout the entire legislative term, nor in the 2027 budget. The same applies to the purchase of Can Pesquet (Son Sardina)—lots of promises but zero euros. Plenty of smoke and photo opportunities, but no investment."
Additionally, the spokesperson found it incomprehensible that funds related to Palma's unsuccessful bid for the European Capital of Culture 2031, which was rejected by the organising body, are still included in the budget. MÉS has also criticised Martínez for increasing spending on managerial and political positions by €250,000, stating, "The PP is fattening its structure to prepare for the 2027 elections with money from all Palma residents."
The party has questioned the €250,000 allocated to the Demographic Control Centre, following €500,000 budgeted in 2026 without results. "There is money for positions and demographic control, but not for public housing. It is a matter of priorities," Truyol explained.
In light of this situation, MÉS proposes introducing a municipal surcharge of €4 per person per night on the Sustainable Tourism Tax, with the necessary legal modifications. With 56,460 tourist beds and an estimated occupancy of 50%, Palma could raise over €40 million annually, which would be entirely allocated to expanding the public stock of social and affordable housing, particularly for young people, vulnerable individuals, or women who have suffered from gender-based violence.
Truyol stated, "If tourism generates wealth, it should serve to ensure that the people of Palma can continue living in Palma. We want to transform tourism pressure into public housing, not more tourism promotion." MÉS also proposes investing €2 million in 2027 to develop a network of green corridors and execute a pilot project. This initiative would connect neighbourhoods to the city centre through public transport, bike lanes, BiciPalma, and pedestrian pathways, featuring more trees, shade, benches, and wide sidewalks.
"Martínez represents a Palma of unfulfilled promises, concrete, and overcrowding. We propose public housing, sustainable mobility, and more liveable neighbourhoods. Palma needs investments for the people, not more excuses from the mayor," Truyol concluded.
