Investments are welcome, along with all potential investors, but their visions and plans must align with the interests of the local residents and municipalities where the investment is taking place. Without active engagement with local authorities, citizens, and the community at large, investments lose their positive impact. This was emphasized by the Mayor of Tivat, Željko Komnenović, in an interview with Pobjeda, as he commented on the Ulcinj municipality’s cautious approach to the planned development of the Velika Plaža area.
Mayor Komnenović highlighted that the values and standards brought by Porto Montenegro to Tivat are undeniable. He credited consistent tax revenue and disciplined financial management for enabling Tivat’s 2025 municipal budget to reach a record €33 million, with significant investments directed toward public infrastructure, including roads, water supply, sewage systems, education, and sports facilities. Over €22 million will be invested in infrastructure development, while €16 million will be allocated for capital projects alone.
A major focus is on strengthening the local water supply and sewer systems, with more than €9 million earmarked for these efforts. Significant projects also include the construction of a new boulevard through Tivat, expansion of coastal promenades, building a sports hall, and upgrading public schools. The mayor underlined the importance of transparency, noting that clear legal mechanisms and municipal planning documents strictly govern budget spending.
The ongoing construction of the Jaz–Tivat boulevard is a key strategic project for Tivat, improving road connectivity along the Montenegrin coast. Although traffic disruptions are expected during the tourist season, Komnenović stressed the necessity of patience, emphasizing that progress in infrastructure is vital for further development.
In terms of economic development, Komnenović noted that Tivat enjoys the highest average salary in Montenegro, with labor shortages rather than unemployment being the main challenge. The city continues to invest heavily in sports, culture, and education to maintain a high quality of life, attract skilled workers, and support future growth.
New green and digital initiatives are also being pursued. Tivat has introduced an electric maritime transport line and is developing a smart city platform and loyalty programs for residents and visitors. Other achievements include the removal of all billboards in the city, which earned Tivat recognition from the Green Destination organization.
Regarding the Strategic Development Plan until 2029, Komnenović reported that 22 out of 71 planned projects are already underway. Among these are initiatives to modernize the city’s infrastructure, digitalize municipal services, and build a new open-air market.
On the broader topic of foreign investments, the mayor welcomed Montenegro’s economic cooperation with the UAE, citing the positive example of Porto Montenegro. However, he reiterated that local interests must always be protected, emphasizing that successful investments require close collaboration with local communities.
Finally, addressing interethnic relations in the Bay of Kotor, Komnenović reaffirmed his previous statements condemning comments that deny the presence of Croats in the region. He stressed the importance of preserving traditional harmony among all national communities in Boka.
