The Council of Santa Cruz, via the Municipal Institute of Social Care (IMAS) and Public Services, in partnership with the Local Police, has taken steps this morning to dismantle one of the three cabins that still remain in the vicinity of Pancho Camurria. This act represents a continued commitment to remove these substandard accommodations situated on municipal land, “always after offering its inhabitants a housing solution from the public resources available to this Corporation,” explains Charín González, the Councillor for Social Action.
The mayor, José Manuel Bermúdez, emphasizes that this “is a pledge made to the residents of the area, which involves dismantling and eradicating these substandard shelters around the Pancho Camurria sports complex, located on municipally owned land.” He further adds that “this is an initiative that is supported by accommodation offers to those residing in these huts, who live in inadequate hygienic and sanitary conditions.” He reiterates that “we are engaged in ongoing social work since June 2023, aimed at improving the quality of life of these individuals and reclaiming this public land for the benefit of all citizens.”
Meanwhile, Gladis de León, Councillor for Security, appreciates “the cooperation of local police officers in Santa Cruz during this operation around Pancho Camurria, who confirmed prior to the demolition that the cabin in question was uninhabited and did not contain any animals.” “In addition,” she continues, “we have been present at various stages during the vacating of these substandard homes and their subsequent demolition to ensure safety in the area and that the entire procedure proceeded without incident.”
Charín González remarks, “It is important to note that of the 30 shacks that initially comprised this settlement, only two will remain from today forward, and we need to reiterate our intention to dismantle all the huts.” “The aim is for this municipal lot, which has been occupied by these structures for over 16 years, to be transformed into a public use area, as it rightfully belongs to all citizens,” she adds.
“We have been intervening with these individuals for many years,” asserts the Councillor for Social Action, “offering them alternative housing options, such as the Municipal Reception Centre,” and she states that, “in any event, we will continue to pursue a line of work aimed at reaching an agreement, as we have successfully done with others in the past, although it should be clarified that if this is not feasible, we will resort to other legal measures, given that this is an illegal settlement occupying public land.”
