Valor Béarn Adjusts contributions Amidst Inflation, Prioritizes Key Investments
Valor Béarn, a key inter-municipal cooperation entity, has announced a marginal increase in contributions from it’s member municipalities (EPCIs) and service prices for non-members. This decision, the first such adjustment in eleven years, comes as the institution grapples with the pervasive effects of inflation and the need to fund significant infrastructure projects. According to recent data from the INSEE (National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies), France experienced an average inflation rate of 4.9% in 2024, placing considerable strain on public services and investment capabilities.
This is a strong commitment that we had made as the beginning of my first mandate, today eleven years ago, of which we made a paradigm: to master the contributions of our members.Monique Sémavoine, President of Valor Béarn and Mayor of Mazères-lezons
Monique Sémavoine, president of Valor Béarn and Mayor of Mazères-Lezons, emphasized the difficulty of the decision, framing it as a necessary step to maintain service quality and financial stability. The approved increases are modest, with member contributions rising by 1% and service prices for non-members increasing by 1.4%. These adjustments are designed to ensure the continuation of “a powerful and innovative public service” amidst challenging economic conditions.
Strategic Investments: Modernizing Infrastructure for a Lasting Future
Despite the financial pressures, Valor Béarn remains committed to its ambitious five-year investment plan, totaling €18 million. in 2025, the organization is prioritizing two major projects:
Revitalizing the Sévignacq Sorting Center
A substantial €5.5 million investment is earmarked for the completion of the Sévignacq sorting center’s modernization. This facility is considered a cornerstone of Valor Béarn’s waste management system. The upgrades are intended to optimize the site’s performance, enhance recycling capabilities, and ensure compliance with evolving regulatory standards. Modern sorting facilities are crucial for achieving higher recycling rates and reducing landfill waste, aligning with broader European Union environmental goals.
Relocating and Innovating the Composting Platform
Another €5.5 million will be allocated to the creation of a new composting platform north of Lescar, near Pau airport. This project involves relocating an existing site from Cap Ecologia to address odor concerns raised by local residents and businesses in the Lescar Soleil commercial area. the new facility will incorporate an “innovative” closed-circuit system that promotes efficient decomposition while minimizing odors. this system involves air insufflation to enhance bacterial activity, ensuring a more controlled and environmentally pleasant composting process.The project directly responds to citizen concerns about environmental quality and demonstrates Valor Béarn’s commitment to sustainable waste management practices.
Energy Valuation Unit Modernization
Valor Béarn is also completing the modernization of its energy valuation unit in 2025, further solidifying its commitment to sustainable waste management and energy production. This project, while not detailed with a specific budget allocation in this report, is considered another “pillar of the union”.
Sound Financial Management Underpins Future Growth
Valor Béarn’s 2025 budget has been unanimously adopted and is characterized by elected officials as “notably healthy,” projecting a surplus of approximately €270,000. The organization’s deleveraging ratio, standing at a remarkably favorable 0.43 years, provides a solid foundation for future investments. While Valor Béarn intends to utilize loans to finance its major projects,this strategy is viewed as a means of optimizing cash management rather than a sign of financial distress. The organization attributes its strong financial position to rigorous management practices and a commitment to responsible investment for the future.