Constitutional Revision and New Municipal Code for OTA Autonomy
Key Questions
What key changes does the new Municipal Code introduce for elections and voting?
The code allows optional e-voting starting in 2028, requiring applications one month in advance and involving 300-450 sections. It also shifts to single-round elections, with public consultation ending June 4. These reforms are part of broader efforts to modernize municipal processes.
How are new property tax fees like TTA and TPA expected to impact local governments and residents?
TTA and TPA will replace previous charges with higher rates and give local councils discretion from 2027 onward. This raises concerns about fairness and potential triple burdens for property owners, who oppose the measures. Property owners' associations warn of long-term commitments that could influence final legislation.
What constitutional and autonomy issues were discussed at the KEDE meeting?
Changes to Articles 101/102 and 2026 budget guidelines were advanced, alongside calls for greater financial autonomy. Former minister Stylianidis proposed a constitutional upgrade for municipalities, while debates involved accusations over electoral law changes and staffing controls under Article 730. KEDE has integrated some proposals but left financial autonomy issues open.
Art 101/102 changes and 2026 budget guidelines (cash-availability forecasts required) advance. New Municipal Code introduces optional e-voting from 2028 (300-450 sections, application one month before) and single-round elections (consultation ends June 4). Intense KEDE meeting: Doukas accuses ND of changing electoral law to prevent his 2023 upset; Livanios defends single-round. PASOK attacks financial autonomy and Article 730 staffing control. New property tax fees (TTA, TPA) replace old charges with higher rates and local council discretion from 2027, raising fairness concerns. Property owners' associations strongly oppose, warning of triple burdens and long-term commitments, potentially influencing final legislation. KEDE confirms integration of proposals but open issues on financial autonomy and constitutional revision. Former minister Stylianidis proposed constitutional upgrade of municipalities at KEDE, adding a new voice to the debate.