A new governance for reinforced unity
Port Grimaud, an iconic lakeside village, has just reached a significant turning point in its management.

During the Pâques weekend, the three Associations Syndicales Libres (ASL) that administer this territory held their general meetings, leading to a renewal of governance within two of the three structures. With 1,950 lots affected out of a total of 2,500, a major change is taking place for ASL Port Grimaud 1 and Port Grimaud 2. Philippe de Saint Rapt takes the head of Port Grimaud 1, while Henri Sallé is elected president of Port Grimaud 2.
However, the three ASL remain resolutely committed to close cooperation. The interview of our special correspondent in Port Grimaud, Pierre Bégliomini. Does this new governance imply a change of strategy for Port Grimaud and what is your vision of Port Grimaud as a whole?
Henri Sallé. My candidacy responds to a strong demand from the owners.
Until now, the three ASL worked separately, but since Pâques, we have initiated closer coordination with regular meetings between the three presidents. Philippe de Saint Rapt, you have been elected to the presidency of Port Grimaud 1. How do you envisage your mandate? Philippe de Saint Rapt.


Henri Sallé was able to bring together the right skills during the consultation conducted by the municipality. For my part, as a member of the union council, I was naturally elected in the continuity of my commitment. Towards harmonised management What are the main objectives you have set for this new governance? Henri Sallé.
The owners want transparent ASL that listen to them, as well as genuine cooperation between them. Our objectives include frequent meetings, joint communiqués and a joint presence at discussions. You mention territorial uniqueness, can you clarify this idea? Philippe de Saint Rapt.
We share a uniqueness of territory and a similar way of life. Our three ASL are above all management entities for a unique territory: Port Grimaud. A united community.
Beyond management, do you feel a desire among residents to assert a common identity? Henri Sallé.
Absolutely. Residents want to go beyond simple administrative aspects to form a real community. They want to avoid an artificial separation between neighbourhoods and to reinforce unity and solidarity. Managing 2,500 owners is almost like administering an entire municipality. How do you approach this complexity?
Philippe de Saint Rapt. Indeed, we exceed the size of many French municipalities, with an estimated population of between 10,000 and 15,000 inhabitants. It is therefore necessary to segment management according to the geographical specificities of each neighbourhood.
Port Grimaud 1 welcomes tourism and visitors, Port Grimaud 3 remains a residential area, and Port Grimaud 2 lies halfway between the two.
This diversity requires adapted policies, but with growing cooperation, particularly in terms of security and prevention. Specifically, what concrete projects have already been put in place in this context?
Philippe de Saint Rapt. Our services are now coordinating their efforts with joint exercises in terms of security and prevention.
It is a major step forward that reinforces our cohesion and our efficiency. Thus, the new governance put in place seeks not only better management, but also to strengthen the bond between residents, ensuring renewed cohesion and dynamics for Port Grimaud.
The challenges of the new presidencies You were recently elected to the presidency of your respective ASL.
What are your main challenges? Henri Sallé.
The owners of Port Grimaud 2 have expressed their desire to modernise the ASL and guarantee increased transparency. We will now systematically consult residents before any project, to show them that the ASL is above all at their service. What are the priorities of your mandate? Henri Sallé.
They are based on three pillars. The first concerns compliance with what we call "la loi des colotis", which governs our statutes and specifications. It ensures the preservation of the living environment and the defense of the property rights of the owners. Philippe de Saint Rapt.
The second pillar is cooperation between the three ASL. We share many common interests, particularly in terms of quality of life and services to residents. Better coordination will optimise management and improve the reception of owners. Henri Sallé.
Finally, we wish to pursue a sustainable development approach, with an emphasis on soft mobility. We encourage cycling and the introduction of electric shuttles to avoid the excessive use of motorised vehicles. A new negotiation approach to resolve conflicts with the municipality.
Towards harmonised management The challenges of the new presidencies