alçades

Alçades is a term derived from Catalan and refers to the local government of a municipality in Catalonia, Spain. It is the equivalent of a town hall or city council in other parts of the world. The alçada is responsible for administering local affairs, including urban planning, public services, and local regulations.

The structure of an alçada typically includes a mayor, known as the alcalde or alcaldessa in Catalan, and a municipal council composed of elected councilors. These councilors represent different political parties and are elected by the residents of the municipality. The mayor presides over council meetings and is the head of the executive branch of the local government. The council as a whole is responsible for debating and approving local ordinances, budgets, and other important decisions.

The functions of an alçada are broad and encompass a wide range of responsibilities necessary for the daily functioning of a town or city. This includes managing public infrastructure such as roads, parks, and street lighting. They are also responsible for providing essential services like waste collection, water supply, and local police. Furthermore, alçades play a crucial role in local economic development, cultural initiatives, and social welfare programs. The specific powers and duties of each alçada are defined by regional and national legislation.