Vote of no confidence expected against Þorgeir Pálsson, mayor of Strandabyggð

A proposal for a vote of no confidence against the mayor of Strandabyggð, Þorgeir Pálsson, is expected to be presented at the upcoming municipal council meeting. The initiative is led by Matthías Sævar Lýðsson, a member of the A-list of General Citizens. This action is in response to what they deem to be unfounded allegations of embezzlement directed at a former council member by Pálsson.

Matthías reports that the accusations involve repeated claims made by Þorgeir against Jon Jonsson, who was a member of the municipal council from 2010 to 2014 and again from 2019 to 2022. It was during Jon’s last term that Þorgeir was dismissed from his position as mayor, only to be reinstated after a court ruling concerning the dismissal process; the T-list, which Þorgeir leads, won the last local elections.

Despite an independent investigation by KPMG that found no irregularities in payments made by Strandabyggð to Jon or his affiliated entities, Þorgeir continues to assert these allegations. KPMG’s audit began in July and its findings were disclosed last week.

Matthías expressed disappointment at needing to move forward with the no-confidence vote, emphasizing that Þorgeir’s actions violate municipal ethical standards. He feels that the mayor’s behavior represents a significant power imbalance and raises questions about whether the council can still trust him in his role.

When asked what would change his mind about the proposal, Matthías said it is up to the mayor to resolve the matter. While waiting for a response, he remains uncertain about the proposal’s success, though he has consulted with other council members regarding the situation.