Italian Mayor Serves Without Pay, Boosts Town Budget by €160,000

Massimo Di Fazio, the mayor of Triora, a small mountain town in Italy, has been serving without a salary since he first took office in 2018. This decision has redirected €160,000 into the municipal budget, which has been allocated for maintenance and repairs within the town. Di Fazio, who was born in Sanremo in 1973 and became a construction entrepreneur at the age of 20, believes that governing should be an act of service and love.

Triora, with a population of approximately 390, is the seventh largest municipality by area in the Liguria region. It manages 11 water systems and 11 purification plants. Despite the town's small size, Di Fazio works with only three municipal employees and often takes on small maintenance tasks himself.

In 2023, Di Fazio was re-elected for a second term without opposition, with a voter turnout of 74%. His commitment to the town's welfare is further exemplified by his attempt to donate an additional €500 allowance to the municipality. However, the Court of Accounts refused this request.

Di Fazio's approach to leadership highlights a unique dedication to public service, emphasizing that his role is about more than financial gain. His efforts have not only supported the town financially but also strengthened community resilience.