The new commissioner Mattei takes office: 'I am here to take my responsibilities'

"If it had been an easy task, I wouldn't have accepted: I am here to take my responsibilities." On the face of Piero Mattei, one can read both emotion and the awareness of an important role to be played in the service of the entire city of Messina. A brief and sober ceremony in the Salone delle Bandiere, with the delivery of the tricolor sash by the general secretary, Rossana Carrubba, marked the beginning of the former prefect's experience by the Strait, appointed by the president of the Region, Renato Schifani, to guide the Municipality to the elections in May.

The first hours of Mattei at Palazzo Zanca will be dedicated to in-depth study and meetings with the executives. Among the first measures that the official could approve, after discussions with the Region, is the one regarding the appointment of any subcommissaries. The workload is considerable, as are the issues to be addressed in the next two months. It is not just ordinary administration that needs to be ensured. In the city, at this moment, there are many construction sites open, various works financed with off-budget funds, and others about to start. "The commissioner has the obligation and the right to proceed - he reiterated during the meeting with the press -. Everything that has been initiated must move forward. If there are changes to be made or requests to be addressed, I will evaluate them and proceed accordingly." Mattei, aware that Messina is a complex and important city, is ready to commit personally. On the table, the new commissioner will also find the dossier on participating companies.

The center-right candidate, Marcello Scurria, has requested an assessment of the legitimacy of the latest appointments made by the former mayor, Federico Basile, particularly those concerning the sole administrators. "In these days, I haven't even read the newspapers. I will consult with my collaborators - he said - before evaluating any possible action."

The road map is outlined. In the coming days, a meeting with the group leaders is scheduled, followed by the first session of the City Council. Mattei will also meet with the former mayor: "I am interested in learning, from someone who has administered the city for four years, some data and direct experience that may be useful to me in addressing and solving the problems."