The Arrecife City Council has approved an institutional declaration with the vote of all parties (PSOE, PP, Canary Coalition and Mixed group (composed of two councilors from Vox) by which "tribute will be paid and the invaluable legacy will be recognized of those who have led the city since the advent of democracy."
The mayors who will be recognized with public spaces in Arrecife will be Ginés de la Hoz (architect of the city's first urban plan), Antonio Cabrera Barrera (parliamentarian and first democratic mayor of Arrecife), Cándido Reguera (former national deputy and former mayor), Enrique Pérez Parrilla, high school teacher, former president of the Cabildo of Lanzarote and former mayor of this city), and José María Espino González, who held the position of mayor of the city during the period between 1983 and 1995.
With the prior agreement, and mandatory of the members of this Honors Commission, the public spaces of the city (streets, avenues, parks, squares, etc.) that may bear the name of prominent former mayors, already deceased, who have contributed to the development and progress of the city in the last half century, explain in a press release from the City Council.
In addition, the figure of José María Espino González is highlighted, "mayor of Arrecife in the democratic era, left an indelible mark on the city by introducing a model of open and pedestrian city and in recognition of his legacy and his contribution to progress," so it is proposed that the current medullary promenade bear his name." In addition, in this act of recognition, they also propose his appointment as adopted son of the city.
"The history of Arrecife is intrinsically linked to the actions and decisions of those who have had the honor and responsibility of occupying the position of mayor of the municipality. Each of them has left an indelible mark on the fabric of our community, contributing significantly to the development, progress and well-being of our citizens, adds the Consistory," the document continues.
This recognition not only seeks to "highlight the individual contribution" of each former mayor to the construction of the city we know today, but also to serve as "a reminder" for future generations of the democratic values, public service and civic commitment that characterized their mandates.
In addition, they urge the 'Commission of Honors and Distinctions' to carefully analyze this proposal and thank the active participation of civil society and the families of the deceased former mayors in this process, so that the memory of these illustrious Arrecife residents "endures and enriches" our historical and cultural heritage.
Finally, they express that "in this act of unity and gratitude, they express their commitment as representatives of the citizens of Arrecife to work together to maintain and strengthen the legacy of our predecessors, and continue building a promising future for our beloved city."