Mayor of Kalymnos Giannis Mastrokoukos, speaking to the newspaper Δημοκρατική, outlines a coherent, ambitious yet fully realistic plan, centered on quality of life, environmental protection, culture, and sustainable development. It is a plan that aims to restore citizens’ trust and give Kalymnos the momentum it deserves, fostering hope and optimism for the future.
The first and non-negotiable priority is the completion of the interim waste management solution and the permanent closure of the landfill—a chronic problem that plagued the island for decades. From the very first day in office, the current Municipal Authority set a clear goal to eliminate what it describes as an “open wound” affecting public health and the image of Kalymnos. At the same time, existing recycling initiatives are being strengthened and expanded: three “Recycling Houses” are already in operation, household composters have been distributed, recycling of small electrical appliances is underway, and recycling of construction waste has also begun.
The year 2026 will also mark the tendering of the project for the construction of an external pier at the port of Kalymnos, a project of strategic importance with a budget approaching €15 million. In parallel, works are progressing on the completion of the ring road from the old slaughterhouses to Agios Savvas, as well as the restoration of subsidence on the road leading to Platy Gialos.
Particular emphasis is placed on urban regeneration projects, including the city’s seafront, the traditional alleys of Kalymnos, and targeted everyday interventions in all neighborhoods, with cleanliness and functionality as the central axis. At the same time, the Municipality is moving forward with the procurement of electric buses, investing in modern and environmentally friendly transportation.
Culture is a key pillar of the vision for Kalymnos’ future. Studies are maturing for the utilization of the Fokios estate (Chorafa of Agios Theologos), as well as the former “Apollo” cinema, recently acquired by the Municipality, to create a modern cultural multi-purpose venue and conference center.
Finally, tourism also features prominently, as promotion has begun for the 16th International Climbing Festival, scheduled to take place from October 2 to 4, 2026. The event is expected to further enhance the island’s international profile, following the highly successful relaunch with the 15th Festival, which met with resounding success.
“We envision and work for a clean Kalymnos, a Kalymnos of culture and creativity,” Mayor Giannis Mastrokoukos emphasizes, extending his “warm wishes for the new year to all Kalymnians wherever they may be, and to all our fellow islanders in the Dodecanese, with health, progress, and optimism.”
Source: www.dimokratiki.gr
