Monchique has approved a €26 million budget for 2026, with education, forest protection and economic development topping the municipality’s list of priorities.
The budget, approved by a majority vote in the municipal assembly last month, was backed by the ruling Socialist Party (PS), with two Social Democrat councillors voting against and CDS-PP and Chega abstaining.
The overall budget is up around €1 million compared to last year.
Education will receive around €3 million, including the refurbishment of the EB 2/3 Manuel do Nascimento school. The package also covers free school textbooks, free pupil transport and scholarships for higher education students, mayor Paulo Alves told Lusa news agency.
Civil protection and forest fire prevention are another major focus, with more than €3 million earmarked for new vehicles and equipment.
Monchique is also moving forward with plans to build a business park. The project will be 60% funded through Portugal 2030 EU funds.
“It is a long-awaited and planned infrastructure, essential to attract investors and develop the economy of Monchique,” Alves said.
He added that the 2026 budget is “realistic and financially sound,” saying it secures “key investments that are necessary for Monchique’s future.”
On taxation, the municipality will maintain a 2.5% IRS rate and a 0.3% urban property tax (IMI) rate, with fixed deductions for families ranging from €30 for one dependent to €140 for three or more.
