Elche Mayor Pablo Ruz stated this Wednesday that he does not plan to modify the controversial municipal ordinance recommending that pets urinate on asphalt, given the impossibility of doing so on street furniture, sidewalks, and other spaces, based on the literal text of the cleaning ordinance. Ruz considers it an "unproductive" controversy and emphasized that the ordinance, which is not new, is being applied, although it has quickly generated rejection, with initiatives already gathering over 2,000 signatures demanding its removal. Groups like Compromís will bring the issue to the municipal plenary.
The mayor pointed out that the ordinance is "complete" and that the only thing to do is comply with it, recalling that the fine of up to 750 euros is also not new. For his part, chief commissioner César Zaragoza noted that the situations are similar to those in winter, but that the odors are now stronger due to the heat, and mentioned the complaints from residents living on the ground floor.
Furthermore, the commissioner has asked the Government Sub-delegation to allow them, in the upcoming Security Board meeting, to intervene as plainclothes officers. This has been a demand for years. Zaragoza explains that there is a noticeable decrease in non-compliance, such as not using muzzles or dogs being off-leash, when owners see uniformed officers. However, he insists that the option of plainclothes intervention would allow for greater detection, as those who do not comply would "lower their guard," whether for these issues or for not picking up droppings, which can also incur fines. He also recalled that he has not yet met the new Government Sub-delegate, who was appointed last March.
