Kiryat Shmona Mayor Calls City Israel’s Best Investment Amid Recovery Efforts

Avichai Stern, mayor of Kiryat Shmona, compared the city’s current potential to Nvidia’s growth a decade ago during the National Economic Conference hosted by Calcalist, Bank Leumi, and Clal. Stern emphasized that those not investing in Kiryat Shmona now are missing a prime opportunity, citing government decisions to establish a university, build a railway, and develop three new neighborhoods as key long-term growth drivers.

Stern detailed government incentives designed to attract residents and stimulate the local economy, including a one-time 2,500 shekel grant per family for local business spending, monthly payments of 2,500 shekels for 18 months to families relocating to the city, and 1,000 shekels monthly for 18 months to students attending the new university, alongside free education for reservists.

He noted signs of population return, mentioning morning traffic jams as a positive indicator. Reflecting on the city’s evacuation during recent conflicts, Stern justified the move as necessary to save lives amid thousands of rocket attacks, despite casualties and damage. He also highlighted educational achievements, with a 91% matriculation eligibility rate this year and 24% qualifying for advanced science matriculation, well above the national average.

Addressing political challenges, Stern identified himself as a Likud member but stressed his primary allegiance is to Kiryat Shmona, welcoming support from any party committed to the city’s welfare. He criticized Prime Minister Netanyahu for bypassing him during a wartime visit, suggesting the prime minister avoided hearing residents’ struggles. Stern reiterated his focus remains solely on restoring Kiryat Shmona and dismissed ambitions for national politics, declaring the city’s recovery his singular mission.