Claude Laateb, a small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) owner, is campaigning to become the next mayor of Lodève, France, promising to run the city with the same rigor and efficiency he applies to his business. Laateb, leading the “Lodève Autrement” list, is emphasizing a need for increased collaboration with residents in the municipal governance of the town.
Having served six years in the opposition, Laateb says his perspective has evolved during his time on the council. He initially questioned the necessity of the Lodève mayor presiding over the Lodévois-Larzac community of communes, but now believes it is crucial for the town’s success. “Lodève cannot thrive without its surrounding villages and vice versa,” he stated, adding that rebuilding trust with the mayors of other communes is a priority. He expressed satisfaction with his team, noting that six of the seven members from his previous group are running again, joined by new, motivated individuals.
Laateb’s list includes two former members of the outgoing left-wing majority: Jean-Marc Sauvier, the former adjoint for culture, and David Bosc, the former adjoint for finance. He intends to retain their responsibilities in those portfolios if elected. He clarified his political positioning, stating he ran on the LR list in the last regional elections but that his current campaign is independent. “I have people on my list from both the right and the left, and we are not supported or endorsed by any party – neither RN, nor LR, nor anyone. I don’t want deals with party officials or to be a puppet of a party. I am straightforward,” Laateb said.
A key component of Laateb’s platform is a comprehensive audit of the city’s finances. He stressed that this would not be a “witch hunt,” but a necessary step to address the city’s debt. “I want to reduce the debt. We will accept the time to properly assess the situation,” he explained, drawing on his experience as a business owner. He aims to foster economic development by attracting and retaining businesses in the area.
Laateb intends to prioritize addressing the everyday concerns of residents, such as cleanliness, road maintenance, and street lighting. He plans to test the current policy of extinguishing streetlights between 11 PM and 5 AM, but only after consulting with residents. His first official act as mayor, if elected, would be to open the town hall to the public, providing opposition councilors with dedicated office space and computer access – a departure from the current arrangement where they work “under the stairs.” He believes this demonstrates respect and ensures accessibility for residents seeking assistance from their elected officials.
Describing the city as being “under perfusion” – reliant on external funding – Laateb intends to explore alternative revenue streams. He plans to leverage his business network and seek private sector partnerships in various areas, including cultural initiatives. He specifically mentioned the potential for attracting sponsors to support events like the Résurgence festival, and reviving larger festivals like the former Voix de la Méditerranée, highlighting their economic benefits. He also emphasized the need for improved communication to promote Lodève’s attractions and achievements.
Laateb declined to comment on his competitors, stating he was occupied with a neighborhood meeting on the night of a previously scheduled debate. He expressed confidence in his campaign and stated, “Let the best candidate win.”
