Amsa Spa Restart: Plans, Controversies, and Future Development

The first meeting of the new Amsa spa (Municipal company for Development of Arc) took place last Friday at the Casinò. A series of formalities, evidently. But also the official inauguration of the first board of directors of the now former municipal company of Arc, presided over by Gianni Caproni.

The controversies and the start of activities

Are the controversies from last summer now distant? I must say that, after what happened (the missed appointment of the president, the series of resignations, and the subsequent overhaul of the council, ed.) with the old municipal company, I was a bit worried. But everything went smoothly. Not only that. I was able to notice, from the very beginning, a remarkable willingness from everyone. And also an excellent preparation on the various issues.

The number one rule of the program

What is the number one rule of your program? Simple. All initiatives obviously involve costs. It’s important to verify them carefully. And compare them to the actual benefits. Not only direct, but also induced benefits.

Practical examples and strategies

Practically speaking? Let me give you an example. When I was managing Autobrennero, many investments were made. The indirect benefits, such as the new industrial and commercial developments near the A22, were significant… And not always adequately taken into account.

Plans for the new Amsa and timelines

Let’s get into the details. What are your initial thoughts for the new Amsa? A premiss: dream books are of no use. They only create illusions. Just think of how many of the programs of the famous Arco ’80 were actually realized. Better to carry out careful studies, proceed methodically. And then draw conclusions.

And the timing? We have given ourselves six months to lay the foundations for the new Amsa. We will also hold round tables on specific issues. The newly appointed council expires in one year… Yes, that’s provided by the statute. But I have promised, in agreement with others, to work as if the mandate were eternal. Exactly to avoid reducing everything to mere ordinary administration.

Projects and future visions

In short, managing a swimming pool, two campgrounds, and a bar doesn’t require a spa… You have to look much further ahead. What do you think of golf? I had a meeting with some representatives of that committee. Personally, I agree with this initiative. Even here, however, it will be necessary to evaluate costs and benefits, both direct and indirect.

The Casinò and other developments

And what about the casino? I was a great friend of the late Monsignore Flaim. And this of the Casinò was one of the few issues that divided us. I still hold my opinion: a gaming house in Arco would bring more advantages than disadvantages. We will therefore try to verify its feasibility.

There is talk of a hotel replacing the Palme, once the 11-monoblock is built and neurology moved there… Article 3 of the statutes provides ample flexibility in this and other sectors. We will try to exploit it in the best way. For now, it’s too early to say precisely how. But we will not waste time.