The handover of power took place in a packed Council Chamber with supporters, residents, and prominent political representatives, including Joan Baldoví, Agueda Micó, Enric Morera, Gerard Fullana, Ximo Perles, Vicent Mascarell, Joan Ignasi Pla, and Paqui Viciano, as well as businessman Adolfo Utor.
The session followed the investiture protocol, with each party presenting its candidate. The PSPV did not present a candidate, while the PP proposed Pepa Font, Compromís nominated Rafa Carrió, and VOX and Gent de Dénia put forward their spokespersons. Carrió secured the 12 votes from the PSPV and Compromís.
Vicent Grimalt handed over the mayoral staff to Carrió and submitted his resignation as councilor. His resignation will become effective at the next plenary session, and Juan Pons will take office in July.
In his speech, Carrió extended a hand to the opposition and dedicated words to Sebastià García, Dénia's first nationalist mayor, as a role model. He advocated for the mayoralty as a "collective aspiration" and highlighted the importance of "Valencianist" work and the continuity of the project that has brought stability to the city.
He thanked Grimalt for his dedication and respect for commitments, as well as the support of all colleagues in the corporation, emphasizing that "everyone has something to contribute." Carrió reiterated his belief that "21 councilors are more than 11 or 12" and advocated for a cohesive city to face future challenges.
The main challenges for Dénia include housing, educational investments, preparation for environmental challenges with more climate shelters, and reflection on the city's model. Carrió called for collaboration from all political groups and administrations to improve the city, assuring that he will strive to be "honest, helpful, listening, and rectifying".
The deputy mayor, Maria Josep Ripoll (PSPV), highlighted the socialists' commitment to the government project and expressed regret over Grimalt's resignation, pledging to fight for "the best Dénia".
The PP spokesperson, Pepa Font, acknowledged the legitimacy of the appointment and called for "reducing tension" in the council, demanding appropriate treatment for the opposition.
From Vox, Felix Redondo believes the change does not represent a new era but the "continuity of an exhausted political government." Mario Vidal, from Gent de Dénia, wished the new mayor would govern "with dialogue, closeness, and prioritizing the general interests".
Carrió will not receive an exclusive dedication salary but will be paid for attendance (maximum 2,000 euros per month). He proposes allocating the 53,000 euros from the exclusive dedication to planting trees and mitigating climate change in Dénia.
