The City Council of Belo Horizonte approved in a second round on Tuesday a new law defining the boundaries of Jacques Cousteau Park, located in the Betânia neighborhood of the city’s West region. The decision has sparked protests in the area due to the inclusion of land that is home to approximately 200 families who have been occupying the space. The proposal was submitted by the city government and passed with overwhelming support, with 32 votes in favor and five against, and will now be sent to Mayor Álvaro Damião for sanctioning.

City officials argue that this delimitation is crucial for the development of a new Mental Health Reference Center (Cersam) in the West region, which is backed by funding from the Inter-American Development Bank. They claim that the area designated for the park must be adjusted to facilitate this necessary construction, suggesting a prioritization of mental health infrastructure over the current residents' needs. This stance is likely to intensify the ongoing struggle between housing rights advocates and municipal authorities in Belo Horizonte, as the displacement of families in pursuit of urban development remains a contentious issue.

The approval of this law poses significant implications not only for the families currently residing in the park area but also for future urban planning in Belo Horizonte. It highlights the city's attempts to manage urban growth and public health initiatives while grappling with social justice considerations. As the project moves forward, the anticipated response from affected residents and community activists will be critical in shaping future dialogue around urban displacement and park development in the region.