The new Local Government Code has been approved by the Hellenic Parliament, ending the second-round runoff system for local elections. The bill—submitted by the Ministry of Interior—was passed by the full plenary session, with the governing New Democracy party voting in favour and opposition parties voting against.
A New Era of Implementation Begins
At the conclusion of the parliamentary debate, Interior Minister Thodoris Livánios announced that, following the legislative process, a new phase begins: implementation. To support local authorities, the ministry will launch a dedicated microsite featuring real-time updates of all applicable provisions, supporting materials, FAQs, and practical implementation roadmaps.
Livánios also stressed the need for a broader dialogue on the redistribution of responsibilities between central and local government—ensuring that any transferred powers are accompanied by adequate financial resources, infrastructure, and qualified personnel.
Critique of ENFIA Pilot Proposal
Responding to opposition leader Nikos Androulakis’s suggestion to pilot the transfer of ENFIA (Real Estate Tax) revenues to municipalities, Livánios warned that such a move would disproportionately benefit affluent municipalities—like Glyfada—with high-value real estate, while over 90% of Greek municipalities would receive significantly less than their current KAP (Municipal Property Tax) revenues.
Major Changes to Municipal Tax Payments
Starting 1 January 2028, municipal taxes will no longer be collected through electricity bills—a practice linking payments to DEH and other power suppliers will end. Instead, citizens will receive an annual invoice each January, listing the total amount due for all municipal levies.
Payment will be flexible: taxpayers may choose to settle the full amount upfront—entitling them to a discount—or opt for 12 equal monthly instalments.
Implementation of the new system awaits a Presidential Decree, expected to be issued in the coming period.