by Nina Vaclavikova
Interviews: Caterina de Gavardo, the city’s assessor for urban safety; Paolo Jerman, deputy commander of the local police
The municipal government of Trieste has unveiled a renewed initiative to support security enhancements across homes, businesses and communal properties. Tuesday morning, city officials introduced the “Bando Installazione Sistemi di Sicurezza”, a grant scheme designed to subsidize the installation of protective measures such as reinforced doors, video intercom systems and door viewers.
At a press event held in the municipal council chamber, Caterina de Gavardo, the city’s assessor for urban safety, announced the continuation of a €260,000 budget supported by the Regione Friuli‑Venezia Giulia—matching last year’s funding. “Maintaining the funding level allows us to better address the security needs expressed by our community,” de Gavardo stated.
The grant program, established in 2020 and expanded in subsequent years, reached its peak in 2024. That year, it fulfilled 92 percent of applications from small businesses, 30 percent from private homeowners, and only 13 percent from condominiums. Officials said the low condominium uptake prompted adjustments in the new scheme that aim to equitably distribute resources among all categories of applicants.
Under the revised structure for 2025, private residences will receive an increased allocation—from €195,500 to €210,000—and condominiums from €26,000 to €35,000, while business funding has been reduced in light of the nearly universal approval rate in 2024. Funding available for religious and educational or sports institutions has also been reduced accordingly.
The program considers a broad array of security measures, though it excludes installations such as fences, gates, vaults or contracts with private security firms. Eligible applicants include property owners, lessees and individuals under life‑use agreements, provided they reside in the property during application and grant disbursement. Condominium applicants must focus on shared areas and may apply either individually or via their building administrator. Larger buildings with more units will receive priority in the ranking process.
Each property is limited to one application, which may cover multiple improvements—such as door reinforcement and intercom installation—and include labor expenses. The municipality will cover 75 percent of verified costs, provided work is invoiced and completed by the end of 2025. Applications must be submitted by January 31, 2026.
City officials also emphasized social equity in the allocation process. For private residences, lower-income households, as measured by the ISEE (Equivalent Economic Status Indicator), will receive higher weighting. For small and medium‐sized enterprises, grants will be allocated on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
Paolo Jerman, deputy commander of the local police, underscored that the program includes random audits to ensure compliance and proper use of funds. “These checks are crucial to maintain transparency in the use of public resources,” he said.
Interested individuals may access application forms and program details on the municipal portal or contact the city’s Sportello al Cittadino office for assistance. Applicants are reminded to comply with privacy laws applicable to video surveillance as outlined by the Italian Data Protection Authority.
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For further information:
- Municipal applications and documentation: bandieconcorsi.comune.trieste.it
- Public inquiry office (Sportello al Cittadino), via Punta del Forno 2, Trieste
– Office hours: Monday to Friday 8:30–12:30, Monday and Wednesday 13:30–15:00
– Phone: 040 675 7222
– Email: sportelloalcittadino@comune.trieste.it
