In case anyone has noticed a sudden flurry of investment in public works by borough councils, there is a very good reason. October 2017 sees the next municipal elections. Thus, the strategy for catching votes is getting underway. A survey by national tabloid Correio da Manhã explains this is behind developments from north to south, and the reason for so many municipalities reducing their percentage take on IMI (rates tax).
The looming elections will see a total of 33 mayors forced to retire, due to being in power for three terms. Of these 13 are PSD, four in coalition with the CDS, nine are PS, six PCP and one (Matosinhos) is an independent.
