Antigua approves $21.7 million budget, earmarking nearly $3 million for cleaning

The accounts were approved unanimously, including the annual expense earmarked for the new cleaning contract valued at €2.89 million. The council also highlights a €5 million surplus for parks and gardens, road resurfacing, and the municipal sports centre after criticism over its poor condition.

The Antigua City Council approved on Friday, in an extraordinary plenary session and by unanimous vote, its 2026 municipal budget amounting to €21,754,537.03.

According to information provided by the council, the accounts increase by just over €1 million compared with the previous fiscal year and incorporate the economic forecast for a new road‑cleaning, municipal‑building cleaning, and waste‑collection service.

Specifically, the 2026 budget allocates €2.89 million to that service, which is part of a four‑year, multi‑year tender valued at €15.5 million.

Beyond the ordinary budget, the mayor announced the intention to allocate €5 million of the 2024 surplus to three priority lines:

• Parks and gardens
• Road resurfacing
• Renovation of the municipal sports centre

The council emphasized the funding for the sports centre, responding to opposition criticism regarding its deteriorated state.

The municipal note also adds that the 2026 accounts include €127,000 for drafting the Historical Heritage Catalogue, as well as increased subsidies for Social Services, Sports, and Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries.

During the plenary session, the municipal auditor described the budget as a balanced document aimed at improving services, maintaining financial sustainability, and meeting targets for fiscal stability and public debt.

“The accounts are approved without any increase in municipal taxes or fees,” said Mayor Matías Peña García. “We will also keep the municipal sports schools, the EMMA music school, training workshops, and all activities organized by the local institution free of charge.”

These measures underscore the council’s commitment to fiscal responsibility while investing in community infrastructure and services.