Community Leadership Renewed in Casinca-Castagniccia as Haute-Garonne Tightens Budget to Protect Social Policies

On March 28, 2026, Antoine Poli was re-elected president of the Casinca-Castagniccia community council with near-unanimous support, reflecting a strong spirit of unity despite political differences. The assembly convened 68 councilors representing 42 municipalities and honored the late Alexandre Gambotti, mayor of Ficaghja, with a minute of silence. Poli expressed gratitude for the collective commitment to work "in the same direction" and outlined priorities including improving working conditions for agents via a new technical center, addressing waste management through incentive-based pricing, sanitation projects, and pursuing heritage recognition to bolster tourism.

Meanwhile, in the Haute-Garonne department, President Sébastien Vincini announced historic budgetary measures aimed at sustaining social programs amid financial strains. The council reduced its operational expenses by 16%, communication costs by 17%, and energy consumption by 30%, alongside a workforce cut of 370 employees. These adjustments were critical to averting an anticipated €110 million deficit due to slowing real estate revenues and increased reliance on state funding. Despite the financial constraints, the council allocated €261 million for social assistance, including support for over 40,000 RSA recipients, childcare, disability, and elderly care. Vincini confirmed that €254 million remains available for infrastructure investment, such as new schools and transport improvements.

These developments exemplify proactive leadership and financial prudence in French local governments, balancing community unity and social responsibility with fiscal challenges. Both Poli and Vincini emphasized collaboration and strategic management as essential for advancing local interests and preserving vital services.