Villeneuve-sur-Lot is gearing up for its municipal elections in 2026, with current Member of Parliament Guillaume Lepers formally entering the race. Lepers presented the broad outlines of his platform on , addressing fourteen pre-prepared questions designed to preempt potential criticisms from his rivals.
A key focus of Lepers’ campaign appears to be addressing concerns about municipal finances, though he downplayed their importance as a campaign issue. “When the only thing people talk about is finances, to create fear, it means they have nothing to say,” he stated, highlighting what he described as “good ratios” and a 40% average funding rate for projects completed during the mandate of outgoing mayor Gérard Régnier. This suggests a strategy to shift the focus away from budgetary scrutiny and towards broader policy initiatives.
A Platform Focused on Community Wellbeing
Lepers’ campaign slogan, “A city that cares for everyone,” echoes a similar theme used by his left-wing opponent, Thomas Bouyssonnie. His platform includes plans for a new social center, potentially serving multiple communes, and an expansion of the Maison des Aînés (senior center), which has seen increasing demand. These proposals indicate a commitment to social services and addressing the needs of diverse demographics within the municipality.
Recognizing the importance of investing in future generations, Lepers intends to launch “states general of youth” to collaboratively shape the future of Villeneuve-sur-Lot. This initiative aims to create a “youth wellbeing pathway,” addressing mental health concerns alongside broader issues of youth development. The emphasis on youth mental health reflects a growing awareness of this critical issue and a proactive approach to preventative care.
111 Proposals and Infrastructure Investments
Lepers’ campaign is built around a comprehensive program of 111 proposals. He highlighted plans to transfer the campus to Saint-Cyr, a move he is actively lobbying for in Paris to secure funding. He acknowledged that this process will be gradual, emphasizing a step-by-step approach. The acquisition of the site by EPFL (École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne) will be crucial, securing the area before expanding parking capacity.
The candidate also pointed to past investments, noting that “We have invested 4 million in schools, more than for the Georges-Leygues avenues.” Further proposals include intensified speed controls in residential areas, continued greening initiatives (with 700 trees planted during the previous mandate), revitalization of the Lakanal market hall, the creation of a commerce office to support local businesses, expansion of soft mobility options (walking and cycling infrastructure), and completion of the greenway project to Rogé.
Lepers also outlined plans for a “proximity urban management” approach, involving on-the-ground diagnostics conducted by municipal services and residents. He committed to a renovation program for the local theater, studies regarding the future of the Rogé castle, and a comprehensive redevelopment of the Marine boulevard up to the pier.
Navigating a Complex Political Landscape
The municipal elections in Villeneuve-sur-Lot are taking place against a backdrop of political transition. Gérard Régnier, the current mayor, announced his intention to step down after a limited term, creating an open contest for leadership. The field currently includes Lepers, Thomas Bouyssonnie, and Stéphane Boukhari, with Geoffroy Gary also having declared his candidacy. The limited number of declared candidates, as reported in November 2025, suggests a potentially less competitive election cycle than anticipated.
Lepers’ decision to run for mayor, if successful, would necessitate his resignation from the National Assembly. This highlights the high stakes involved and his commitment to local governance. His campaign, operating under the banner “Gardons le cap” (Stay the Course), aims to build on the achievements of the previous administration while charting a new course for the future of Villeneuve-sur-Lot. The campaign has a dedicated Facebook page, indicating an active social media presence.
The upcoming months will be crucial as Lepers and his rivals refine their platforms and engage with voters. The focus on community wellbeing, youth development, and strategic infrastructure investments suggests a vision for a modern and thriving Villeneuve-sur-Lot. The election will ultimately determine which candidate can best articulate that vision and secure the support of the electorate.
