While the municipal state structure grows, residents will pay for the adjustment with a new increase in transportation fares
Councilwoman Elisa Caffaratti questioned the need for so many political positions, pointing out that there is one official for every 25 employees. Additionally, the existence of redundant positions and offices without practical use is evident, such as the Subsecretariat of Smart City or the various areas dedicated to gender issues. These expenses reflect a lack of responsibility in the use of public resources.
The expansion of municipal bureaucracy contrasts with the austerity policies demanded of citizens. While subsidies are cut and fares are increased, the local administration continues to expand its political staff. This situation generates indignation among residents, who see how their taxes are used to sustain an inefficient structure.
The increase in the urban bus fare in Córdoba is yet another example of how Passerini's administration prioritizes political spending over the needs of citizens. Instead of adjusting the excessive municipal structure, the decision is made to transfer the cost to public transportation users. This decision deepens inequalities and punishes those who have the least.
It is urgent for the authorities to review their priorities and focus resources on improving essential services without overburdening the population. Transparency and efficiency in public administration are essential to restoring the trust of Córdoba residents. Otherwise, measures like this fare hike will only generate more discontent and frustration in society.
The local administration claimed to have been left alone to sustain the system, both in its operation and in serving the most vulnerable sectors. However, Passerini doesn't control his addiction to continue increasing the size of the municipal government with areas that have no real practical use for the people. Clearly, there is not a lack of money, but rather an excess of municipality.
Starting this Saturday, the bus ticket in Córdoba capital will cost $1,580 after six months without increases. The Municipality justified the increase by claiming that the previous fare was below the system's actual costs. However, the measure directly impacts the finances of workers and students who depend on public transportation.
The local Executive argued that the new price is similar to that of other cities in the country and aims to ensure service improvements. Additionally, it highlighted that more than 40,000 residents receive a 55% discount thanks to the SUBE card. Nevertheless, these justifications do not ease the impact of the fare hike in an adverse economic context.
In its statement, the municipality once again criticized the National Government for withdrawing from the public transportation funding scheme. Specifically, it referred to the elimination of the Interior Compensation Fund. However, this only subsidized 10% of the bus ticket price.
Meanwhile, the ticket increase adds to a series of adjustments affecting the most vulnerable sectors of society. The lack of alternatives and dependence on public transportation worsen the situation for thousands of Córdoba residents.
While this new fare hike is being implemented, Daniel Passerini's administration keeps an oversized municipal structure. According to recent reports, the Municipality of Córdoba has a payroll of 400 officials, including 10 secretariats, 43 subsecretariats, and 247 directorates. This mega-structure entails a multimillion-dollar expense that could have been used to avoid the ticket increase.
