Puerto Rico Senate advances municipal governance reforms in Bill 615

A pivotal moment unfolded in the Puerto Rico Legislature as lawmakers discussed Senate Bill 615, a significant legislative measure aimed at enhancing municipal governance across the island's 78 municipalities. This bill is not merely a technical adjustment; it represents a concerted effort to empower local governments with the necessary tools for greater efficiency, transparency, and autonomy.

The bill seeks to amend the Municipal Code of Puerto Rico, originally established under Law 107 of 2020, which aimed to modernize the legal framework governing municipalities. However, as highlighted during the meeting, the evolving needs of local governments necessitate updates and corrections to this framework. The proposed changes reflect extensive dialogue with both the Federation and the Association of Mayors of Puerto Rico, ensuring that the voices of local leaders are heard and addressed.

One of the most notable changes proposed in Senate Bill 615 is the direct election of municipal legislators, reinforcing democratic principles by ensuring that elected officials are chosen by the people without distortions. This adjustment aims to rectify past electoral discrepancies that undermined majority representation.

In response to the frequent natural disasters faced by communities, the legislation also streamlines emergency response protocols for mayors, eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles that delay action during crises. Additionally, it introduces a new method for determining mayoral salaries, moving away from population-based criteria to a performance-based evaluation system.

The bill also establishes a formal internal audit office within municipalities, enhancing accountability and efficiency in public fund management. Furthermore, it raises the threshold for public works that do not require a bidding process, allowing municipalities to act swiftly on essential projects without getting bogged down in red tape.

Senate Bill 615 also clarifies election-related provisions, ensuring that re-elected mayors can continue their administrative duties without interruption, thereby maintaining service continuity. It aims to facilitate the recovery of properties deemed public nuisances for community development and affordable housing projects, addressing long-standing issues of urban decay.

As the discussion concluded, lawmakers were urged to support this transformative legislation, which promises to empower municipalities and respond to the pressing needs of Puerto Rican communities. The anticipated outcome is a more responsive and effective local government structure that can better serve its citizens.