The Tàrrega council has definitively approved the municipal budget for the 2026 fiscal year, totalling €25,296,479. This figure marks a record high and represents a 10.7% increase compared to the previous year. The investment section of the budget is particularly noteworthy, amounting to €4,507,467, which reflects a growth of 22.2%.
The budget received support from the ruling parties, Junts per Tàrrega and CUP, while opposition parties ERC and PSC abstained from the vote. The approval followed the resolution of objections raised by ERC and PSC, which were ultimately dismissed. ERC had requested assurances that the budget increase would comply with procurement regulations, while PSC called for a review of revenue forecasts for the local theatre, Teatre Ateneu.
Key decisions and initiatives
During the ordinary session held on 4 June, the council also agreed to allocate a surplus of €189,585 from the 2025 financial year to Sustainable Financial Investments (IFS).
Additionally, the council unanimously accepted the testamentary legacy of local painter Lluís Trepat, which includes around one hundred works. These will be permanently exhibited at the Tàrrega Urgell Museum, fulfilling the artist's wishes. A dedicated space named “Sala Fons d’Art Lluís Trepat” will be established within the museum to showcase a significant portion of these works.
Regulation of electric scooters
The council has also amended local regulations to specifically govern the use of electric scooters, classified as Personal Mobility Vehicles (VMP). The new rules aim to enhance road safety and improve coexistence between vehicles and pedestrians. Under the new regulations, electric scooters must have civil liability insurance, an official identification plate from the Directorate General of Traffic, and a homologation certificate. Additional safety measures will be enforced, including penalties for carrying multiple passengers on a single scooter.
Extension of water service concession
A unanimous agreement was reached to extend the contract for the maintenance of the drinking water and sewage network with Aigües de Barcelona (Agbar) until 2027. This marks the third extension of the contract, which was originally set to expire in 2024. The council plans to commission a new study to assess the potential municipalisation of the service.
Fiscal modifications and educational initiatives
In terms of fiscal policy, public prices for municipal swimming pools have been adjusted to allow covered pool subscribers access to summer pools under the same fee structure. Additionally, fees for municipal childcare centres will increase by an average of 2.8% based on family income thresholds. The cost of materials and meals at these centres will also be updated. A new fee will be introduced to regulate municipal accommodation services for social housing emergencies.
The council has approved a 90% reduction in the Construction, Installations, and Works Tax (ICIO) for the Alba Association to support roof replacement works at the Alba Workshop. A 75% reduction in the Property Tax (IBI) will also be granted for a property rented at affordable prices, as part of the municipality's efforts to promote social housing availability.
Historical memory and community representation
In a move to support historical memory, the council unanimously endorsed a partnership with the Friends of Casa Macià Association to commemorate the centenary of the Prats de Molló events, contributing €600 to the initiative. This operation, planned by Francesc Macià in 1926, aimed to secure Catalonia's independence but was thwarted before it could be executed.
Furthermore, the council approved a modification to appoint representatives to the Association of Municipalities of the Ignatian Way and the Advisory Council of Ràdio Tàrrega. The new representatives will include various local associations, ensuring a broad representation of the community.
Lastly, a motion advocating for improvements in early childhood education for children aged 0-3 was unanimously supported, reflecting the council's commitment to ensuring quality and equitable access to essential educational services.
