site.btaSofia Municipal Councillor Contrera Criticises Capital's Waste Management Crisis, Calls for Reform

Carlos Contrera, Deputy Chairman of the nationalist party VMRO and municipal councillor in Sofia, has sharply criticized the city's handling of its waste management crisis. He claims the current approach is flawed and that the municipality's failure to act proactively has led to the current situation, VMRO said in a Wednesday press release.

Contrera argues that the crisis was foreseeable, as the Sofia Municipality delayed addressing the issue despite being aware of impending contract expirations for waste collection services. He points out the lack of a comprehensive waste management plan, proper budgeting, and a clear strategy, leading to a chaotic and reactive approach.

He also highlights the Municipality's over-reliance on external contractors, which he believes has compromised efficiency and control. Contrera suggests that the city should develop its own capacity for waste management to ensure better service and accountability.

In response to the current crisis, Contrera proposes a balanced model where the municipality directly manages waste collection in certain areas while outsourcing services in others. He believes this approach would provide flexibility, reduce costs, and ensure that the city can respond effectively to any issues that arise.

Contrera also criticized the current administration for not implementing these reforms and for continuing with the same problematic approach. He calls for a reevaluation of the city's waste management strategy to prevent further crises and to ensure a more sustainable and efficient system.