In the Republic of Moldova, authorities will reduce the number of districts from 32 to 10, and they will eliminate mayor’s offices in localities with fewer than 3,000 residents.
Alexei Buzu announced the reform while presenting the concept of local public administration restructuring. He also stated that authorities will grant Taraclia the status of municipality.
The official explained that the reform will reorient districts toward regional development and attracting development funds.
“Following consultations, we reached the decision that, for a mayor’s office to be considered functional, it must serve a minimum population of 3,000 residents. As a result of the reform, after the general local elections in 2027, no mayor’s office in Moldova will administer public affairs for fewer than 3,000 citizens,” he said.
Authorities will maintain social services in localities where they eliminate mayor’s offices. They will establish Single Service Centers for the Population in those areas.
At the same time, authorities will grant 2 million lei per year for three years to localities that voluntarily merge, to support reorganization. They will eventually merge local public administrations that do not opt for voluntary consolidation, with support from central authorities.
Authorities expect to complete the reform by the next general local elections in the Republic of Moldova.