Panama Mayor Explains Construction Delays and Presents Budget Savings

The mayor of the capital district, Mayer Mizrachi, addressed criticisms of his administration, stating that the lack of tangible construction results is due to delays in bidding and contracting processes. He explained that these procedures took longer than planned last year, and the results of the initiated projects will only become visible next year. Despite the setbacks, successes were achieved in the financial sector. For instance, rental costs were reduced from $800,000 to $200,000. Additionally, the decision was made to purchase vehicles instead of leasing them. The mayor reported that while $170 million was allocated for this year, only $140 million was spent, allowing the city to pay off its debt without creating new obligations. In the municipal council, Rodolfo Precilla was also approved as the new president with 23 votes in favor, 3 against, and 0 abstentions. The budget for the next fiscal year, totaling $242.3 million, also provides for the continuation of 39 projects currently underway. The mayor emphasized that this represents a modest 4% increase compared to the current year but remains $80 million below the funds inherited from the previous administration. Furthermore, Mizrachi revealed that the previous administration spent around $70,000 per year on purchasing iPhones, a benefit that has been eliminated during his tenure. Now, employees use their own mobile devices, and the city allocates only $500 for the entity's WhatsApp service and customer support.