The request stems from a report by the Municipal Audit Office indicating a widespread use of minor contracts, exceeding 70% of the Tourism Board's expenditure in 2024, totaling over 680,000 euros. This practice, which includes recurring services, could imply contract splitting, an action prohibited by current legislation.
“"We are facing a very worrying situation framed by a devastating report from the Municipal Audit Office for the year 2024."
Socialist spokesperson, Patricia Puerta, highlighted the seriousness of the facts and the continuation of this contracting model for 2025 and 2026, with the approval of Mayor Begoña Carrasco. For his part, Compromís spokesperson, Ignasi Garcia, emphasized the lack of responses from the municipal government to questions raised since January regarding these irregularities.
The financial control report also points to a lack of adequate justification in some direct awards without competition, which could affect the principles of efficiency in public spending and limit access for other companies. The PSPV filed a complaint with the Prosecutor's Office in February, which has archived the procedure this week, indicating that the administrative route is the most appropriate for investigating possible irregularities.
“"This is not a technical debate, but a matter of political responsibility. It is necessary to clarify why these irregularities have occurred and to rule out that some companies may have been intentionally favored over others."
Compromís recalled that they had already proposed the creation of an investigation commission, which was rejected by the Partido Popular and Vox. Both opposition parties insist on the need for the Castelló municipal government to provide public explanations to clarify a situation that affects transparency and trust in public management.
