In his role as mayor of Grau-du-Roi, Charly Crespe also wants to consider the community of municipalities and advocates for a closer relationship with neighboring communities.
“Why are you running for president of the Terre de Camargue community of municipalities?” This is part of my responsibilities as mayor. Intercommunality exercises powers that were previously held by the municipalities, so it makes sense for a mayor to be president. After that, who is next? The community voters will decide. I have the support of many residents, and I believe that Grau-du-Roi should lead, in close collaboration with other mayors, the governance of the intercommunality.
“Do you propose a closer relationship with neighboring communities?” Today, we are three municipalities, and we need to take action to expand. With three municipalities, we do not meet the challenges of intercommunalities. For environmental competencies, we need a larger territory. Incidents like flooding and marine submersion are decided on a larger scale. For economic development, the current size is not optimal.
“At three, if we support one municipality, we create a solidarity fund and multiply it for each one. This leads to increased expenses.” During this term, following an audit, it was recommended to increase taxation. Between 2020 and 2026, all taxpayers will see an additional levy for the intercommunality on their property tax.
“Grau-du-Roi has a specific role in using these resources for employment.” Based on 2021 data, direct contributions are €450,000 for Saint-Laurent-d’Aigouze, €1.7 million for Aigues-Mortes, and €6.4 million for Grau-du-Roi, which accounts for 74% of contributions.
“Do you have a preference for Pays de l’or or Petite Camargue?” It has been discussed for several terms, at least since 2014. In 2023, an analysis was commissioned on integration towards Pays de l’or, but not everyone agreed. Today, I do not specify a preference, but I stress the need to study the options urgently. Continuing with three municipalities means depriving ourselves of flexibility to provide better public services and ensure policy efficiency.
“One of the two areas might be led by the National Rally.” For me, the focus is on territorial issues, not politics. We should not make decisions based on political calculations. Mandates last six or seven years, but this topic is long-term. I believe we can work with all elected officials.
“The governance should involve all three mayors working hand in hand.” My approach is to work with a conference of mayors to assert a stronger role for mayors in the intercommunality, emphasizing collaboration among the three mayors. Scheduled and formalized meetings are essential, not just when problems arise.
“The community of municipalities has responsibilities in environmental matters. Which issues would you like to address?” Waste management, improving recycling, and water management are key areas for progress. Strengthening our actions in these sectors is crucial due to decreasing support from the state. Collaboration and consolidation are necessary to address costly environmental challenges and protect natural spaces.
