Safety in Bellinzona: motion to improve quality of life

Context

In brief

• Motion to strengthen security in Bellinzona
• Institutional presence in sensitive areas
• Pilot projects to improve livability

Key facts

• What: Motion to improve security and quality of life
• When: 8 May 2026
• Where: Bellinzona, Ticino
• Who: Karim Spinelli (Plr), Municipal Council
• Amount: Not specified

The motion presented by Karim Spinelli, on behalf of the Plr group in the Municipal Council of Bellinzona, aims to strengthen security and quality of life in the city. The proposal focuses on a balance between institutional presence, care of the territory, and security, benefiting all neighborhoods. In particular, there is a perceived less regular presence of proximity services in various neighborhoods, while in central areas such as Bellinzona Station and viale Stazione, specific situations of discomfort and a decrease in the livability of public spaces are reported.

Proposed measures

The motion invites the executive to evaluate and adopt measures in the most sensitive areas, particularly in the Station area and along viale Stazione. These measures should be aimed at an adequate strengthening of territorial presence and the quality of interventions compared to the current situation. Furthermore, it is proposed to involve social operators or mediators if appropriate. In addition to these measures, the Municipality is invited to evaluate one or more pilot projects in the same areas that integrate in a coordinated manner institutional presence, interventions in public spaces, and social support measures.

Involvement of local realities

Another crucial aspect of the motion is the maintenance and strengthening of constant dialogue between municipal authorities and local realities. Security, understood not only in an objective sense but also as a widespread perception among the population, represents a framework condition for the quality of life, attractiveness, and economic development of the city. It is based on a visible and consistent territorial presence of institutions, adequate care of public spaces, and active dialogue with the neighborhoods, in an approach that combines prevention, support, and intervention.

Pilot projects and updated framework

If the motion is accepted by the legislature, the Municipality will be tasked with preparing an updated and comparative overview of the situation in the different neighborhoods, which allows for a clear reading of the presence and visibility of proximity services. This overview should also take into account feedback related to the perception of security and the livability of public spaces. Based on the results, the Municipality should present a plan that defines concrete, targeted, and proportionate measures.

Involvement of neighborhood commissions

Finally, the executive is invited to strengthen and structure the involvement of Neighborhood Commissions or Associations as a privileged channel for periodic consultation and collection of reports and proposals, through regular moments of comparison and adequate tools. This approach aims to ensure that the needs and concerns of citizens are heard and considered in the decision-making process.

Operational details

Implications for cross-border workers

The motion presented by Karim Spinelli could have a significant impact on the quality of life for cross-border workers in Bellinzona. Improving the safety and livability of public spaces can make the city more attractive to transnational workers, who often seek a safe and well-organized environment to live and work in. Furthermore, strengthening the dialogue between municipal authorities and local entities could facilitate the integration of cross-border workers into the community, promoting a sense of belonging and engagement.

Comparison with the previous situation

Before the presentation of this motion, the perception of insecurity in some areas of Bellinzona could have been an obstacle for cross-border workers considering the city as a place of residence. With the adoption of the proposed measures, there could be an improvement in the perception of safety, making Bellinzona a more attractive choice for transnational workers. Additionally, the introduction of pilot projects could offer new opportunities for participation and engagement for citizens, including cross-border workers.

Future scenarios

If the motion is accepted, a series of initiatives aimed at improving the safety and livability of public spaces could be implemented. For example, mediation and social support services could be introduced to address specific situations of discomfort. Furthermore, the involvement of neighborhood commissions could lead to greater transparency and participation in the management of local policies, directly benefiting cross-border workers who reside or work in Bellinzona.

Comparison with other cities in Ticino

Compared to other cities in Ticino, Bellinzona could become an example of best practice in the field of safety and quality of life. The adoption of targeted measures and the active involvement of local entities could distinguish Bellinzona as a forward-thinking city in ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all its inhabitants, including cross-border workers. This could attract more transnational workers, contributing to the economic and social development of the city.

Recommended tools

For an updated estimate, use the net salary calculator and the CHF-EUR exchange comparator.

Key points

What to do for cross-border workers

For cross-border workers who live or work in Bellinzona, it's important to stay informed about the initiatives and pilot projects that will be introduced. Participating in periodic consultations and neighborhood commission meetings can offer the opportunity to express their needs and concerns, actively contributing to improving the quality of life in the city. Additionally, cross-border workers can report situations of discomfort or suggest improvements through the communication channels made available by the Municipality.

Step-by-step procedure

1. Stay informed: Follow local news and Municipality announcements to stay updated on current initiatives. 2. Participate: Attend neighborhood commission meetings and periodic consultations. 3. Report: Use the communication channels provided to report situations of discomfort or suggest improvements. 4. Collaborate: Collaborate with social workers and mediators to address specific situations of discomfort.

Useful tools

To delve deeper into the information and calculate the impact of the new measures on their personal situation, cross-border workers can use the salary calculator available on the site. This tool allows them to calculate their net salary and better understand the impact of the new regulations on their economic situation.

Conclusion

The motion presented by Karim Spinelli represents an important opportunity to improve the quality of life in Bellinzona, directly benefiting cross-border workers who work and live in the city. Actively participating in initiatives and consultations can help create a safer and more welcoming environment for everyone.

Source: laregione.ch