Was your election as president of the Grand Ouest Toulousain agglomeration closely contested?
Very close: 2 votes ahead, 23 to 21 in the second round. It took two rounds, which shows a particular responsibility. I am not the representative of a single municipality or an overwhelming majority: there is a balance to be found among all the municipalities. This is actually the spirit in which I conducted my campaign, so it suits me perfectly.
What will be your mode of governance with 11 vice-presidents?
We will work collectively. The role of the president is not to impose a direction in a vertical manner, but to give impetus to a dynamic. Two models exist: a very centralized one, or a collaborative one. I have chosen the latter. Each mayor will be able to invest in an area where they feel comfortable: waste, water, housing, etc. We will allocate responsibilities, trust each other, and each will lead their area after validation of the orientations in the office.
You met with the mayors beforehand. Why this approach?
To understand their vision of governance, their local priorities, and their skills. This will allow us to effectively distribute the delegations at the next community council meeting.
What will be the priorities of your mandate?
We will launch a territorial project, built with elected officials, employees, not forgetting the residents. It will define our priorities. We already know that some areas need strengthening, such as economic development or health: everything will be co-constructed. Economically, we need to revitalize employment and town centers. Socially, I propose the creation of a CIAS (Intermunicipal Center for Social Action) to pool services and better support small municipalities that do not have a CCAS. In terms of health, it is a field that has not been explored much at the intermunicipal level: there is a real need.
The issue of waste and the incentive tax is causing tensions. How will you manage this issue?
There are disparities between municipalities. Some have integrated the reform well, others face strong opposition. We will rework the system, without questioning its principle, which is both a legal obligation and an environmental necessity. It is especially necessary to adapt the modalities for more fairness.
The question of infrastructure to accommodate the GOT officials and the public arises…
Today, we lack space. We had to organize the last council in an outdoor venue. A redevelopment project for the headquarters is underway to create a suitable room. In the meantime, we will use existing facilities.
You emphasize a lot on territorial cohesion…
This is essential. Our territory is very diverse, between urban and rural areas. We need to rebuild connections. Urban areas need rural areas, and vice versa. Local tourism, for example, can be a lever to bring these realities closer together. We have a strong community: healthy finances, dedicated employees, skills. My role will be to strengthen the image of the territory and rebuild connections between municipalities.
You also mention a problem with the territory’s image…
Yes, it is striking. Many residents don’t even know they live in the Grand Ouest Toulousain. Our territory is often forgotten in major institutions. We need to develop a true identity and improve our visibility. We will organize consultations, workshops with residents. The goal is for them to actually participate in decisions. This concerns the territorial project, but also democratic life in general.
