The proposal, which will be processed for plenary approval on November 6, anticipates the new ordinances taking effect on January 1, 2027. The mayor of Alcoy, Toni Francés, highlighted that tax freezes have been maintained throughout the term despite rising costs, while the update for fees and public prices is planned to be below the general cost of living increase.
The Councilor for Finance, Vanessa Moltó, explained that this fiscal policy has kept Alcoy's tax pressure below the provincial and state averages. According to the data presented, the tax pressure indicator stands at 458.35 euros, compared to the provincial average of 679 euros and the state average of 695 euros. The councilor recalled that freezing major municipal taxes means not passing on an accumulated inflation of 12.7% over recent years to citizens.
One of the main novelties is the introduction of measures aimed at encouraging properties to enter the residential market and promoting affordable alternatives for families. The proposal includes discounts on the Real Estate Tax (IBI) ranging from 50% to 75% for properties intended for long-term affordable rent, depending on the rental's economic conditions. The lower the price, the greater the discount.
The mayor emphasized that municipal taxation is a tool to incentivize behaviors that benefit society as a whole. "We are going to act to penalize those who have vacant homes and do not offer them for affordable rent or for sale. But we are also going to reward and recognize those owners who offer their homes for affordable rent to families in need," stated Toni Francés.
The proposal also strengthens IBI surcharges for permanently vacant properties that meet legal requirements. For large holders, a 50% surcharge on the IBI quota is planned when vacancy exceeds two years, rising to 100% when it exceeds three years. An additional 50 percentage points can be added when at least two of the owner's vacant properties are located in Alcoy, meaning the surcharge can reach 150% for vacancies exceeding three years.
A large holder is defined as someone who owns four or more properties in total. The City Council indicated that an initial estimate suggests around 400 properties owned by large holders have been identified. Before applying surcharges, a guaranteed procedure will be developed to identify affected properties.
The ordinances also incorporate fiscal incentives to promote the construction of protected housing, with a 50% discount on the Tax on Constructions, Installations, and Works (ICIO). Furthermore, a discount of up to 95% of the ICIO is planned for the construction of collaborative housing.
The Councilor for Finance highlighted that these measures respond to the desire to use municipal fiscal instruments to help address one of the main current social concerns. The proposal also maintains measures related to sustainability and energy transition.
