Kiryat Malakhi Seeks to Annex Industrial Zone in Historic Land Grab Bid

The Kiryat Malakhi city council unanimously approved a significant move Tuesday to formally request the annexation of the Beer Tuvia industrial zone into the city's municipal boundaries. This initiative aims to rectify decades of perceived inequality in land and resource distribution between Kiryat Malakhi and the surrounding Beer Tuvia Regional Council.

Data presented to the council highlights a stark disparity: Kiryat Malakhi, with approximately 30,000 residents, covers only 5 square kilometers, while Beer Tuvia, with 24,000 residents, encompasses 140 square kilometers. Kiryat Malakhi is effectively surrounded by Beer Tuvia, which possesses numerous industrial zones, one of which bisects Kiryat Malakhi itself. This imbalance is reflected in their socio-economic rankings, with Kiryat Malakhi at level 3 and Beer Tuvia at level 7.

While Kiryat Malakhi secured a $5.5 million annual payment from Beer Tuvia's industrial zone tax revenues in 2022, city officials argue this is insufficient. Kiryat Malakhi has exhausted its land reserves, hindering urban renewal and economic development. The city's strategic plan for the southern district proposes expansion into the "Elah Quarter," including infrastructure development, railway and highway connections, and the establishment of an academic institution, student dormitories, and a hospital.

By annexing the Beer Tuvia industrial zone, Kiryat Malakhi aims to bolster its economic base and facilitate the "Elah Quarter" development. Mayor Eliyahu (Lulu) Zohar stated the move is intended to achieve social justice, providing Kiryat Malakhi with the land reserves needed for development, attracting institutions, and ensuring a better quality of life and social mobility for its residents.