Secugnago, the mayor challenges residents: "Too much barroom chatter, I'm offering three days in my position."

Secugnago (Lodi), July 24, 2025 – Don the mayor's sash, enter the office, sit in the chair behind the desk, and experience the daily tasks and work that come with the responsibilities of a mayor. All this for three days.

This is the 'challenge' that Mauro Salvalaglio , 45, has led since 2009 in Secugnago, a town of two thousand inhabitants in the Lower Lodi area , inviting his citizens to put themselves in his shoes : the goal is to make them understand what it means to be exposed to barroom criticism , dealing with small and large issues, which often do not find everyone in agreement. "The idea came to me a few months ago in response to the requests that arrive daily. Issues like road signs, maintenance, but also more challenging decisions like those regarding preschool or the gym," explains Salvalaglio. "There's no arguing with the citizens; our message is clear . We want them to understand that when you tackle problems, you have to build a path. It's not all simple. Administrative action is not a barroom discussion." For the mayor, the idea of the "competition," borrowed from other organizations, is a "true path to active citizenship, aimed especially at young people."

Obviously, the mayor won't be able to completely replace the elected official for three days, but he or she will be able to support him or her on a symbolic yet concrete journey , involving resolutions to be read, solutions to be found, and meetings . "There will obviously be limitations on access to sensitive data , but the temporary mayor will also be able to attend meetings, prepare for a council or board meeting, and be able to gauge financial management . He or she will understand the complexity of the administrative system and the mandatory steps. A good training ground for those who perhaps have a reductive and simplistic view of the Municipality and its activities."

All you have to do is respond to the call. You just need to be a local resident, an adult, and have no administrative experience. Applications are due by September 5th.

Article Tags