Audit highlights administrative instability

The regional audit chamber's report on Marseille's management triggered heated discussions in the municipal council on Friday, October 16, after four and a half hours of deliberation. The report, covering the period from the end of the Gaudin era to the current administration under Benoît Payan, pointed out ongoing issues while recognizing some improvements.

Instability marked by frequent changes

The audit identified "instability" in the city's administration, noting four reorganizations and five changes in general directors of services since 2018. Despite an increase in staff numbers from 14,426 to 16,188, absenteeism remains 43% higher than the national average. The city claims these recruitments are necessary to strengthen public services.

Ethics and control concerns raised

The report also highlighted a "significant deficit in internal control and prevention of breaches of integrity," especially in the sectoral mayoralties. It noted ambiguous situations between political and administrative roles, urging to avoid any "interference." Benoît Payan emphasized that he has made ethics a priority, citing the increase in disciplinary procedures.

Financial situation remains fragile

On financial matters, the assessment was mixed. Municipal debt has decreased by 22% between 2018 and 2024, and investments have increased. However, the audit body considers the situation "fragile" due to rising personnel costs and a "low self-financing" capacity.

Opposition highlights management issues

In the municipal council, the opposition seized on the report's criticisms. The far right, led by Thibaut Charpentier of the RN, cited the findings, stating that the city cannot present accounts of satisfactory reliability and that absenteeism remains high and not fully diagnosed. His comments sparked discord, especially among members of the Spring Marseille majority.

Constructive criticism and calls for reform

Romain Simmarano, a Renaissance municipal councilor, offered "constructive" criticism, arguing that the issue is not hiring more police or staff in nurseries and schools, but the addition of mission holders in the administration, such as well-paid project officers replacing existing civil servants. He pointed out under-investments and ethics issues but ended on a positive note for the mayor.

Mayor defends management and policies

Benoît Payan defended his choices in personnel expenditures, public services, and his overall management, stating he would never accept a magistrate prescribing public policies. He criticized the magistrates for lacking resources and noted a form of "schizophrenia" from them, who advised eliminating 36 million euros of aid from the Metropolis for Marseille, despite the CRC's recommendation to eliminate it.

Mayor acknowledges progress and commits to reforms

The mayor emphasized that the recommendations from the audit chamber have decreased from 28 to 7, indicating an improvement in municipal management. He pledged to implement the seven recommendations of the CRC.