Ronen Plot, mayor of Nof HaGalil, met with Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich following a government decision to allocate ₪3 billion (about $800 million) to strengthen Jewish communities across the Galilee. The plan also includes tax incentives for residents of Nof HaGalil and other northern cities and towns. During the meeting, Plot presented Smotrich with the city’s ceremonial key in recognition of his efforts on behalf of the city and its residents.
The ceremonial key, which the mayor presented alongside city council member Menachem Gandel, was mounted in a special frame inscribed: “To Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, in recognition of your actions and work to strengthen the city of Nof HaGalil and its residents.” The minister thanked the mayor for the special gesture.
1+Plot opened by saying: “I am very pleased to present the honorable Minister Bezalel Smotrich with the city key.” He then added with a smile: “Over time he’ll be able to come, open, close, and enter without asking anyone. The minister deserves it for doing so much for Nof HaGalil—all respect to you.” Smotrich responded: “Thank you very much, Mr. Mayor. Keep leading this city. We believe in it and know the sky’s not even the limit for it.”
1+After the minister’s remarks, the mayor chose to add congratulations on the birth of Smotrich’s grandson, son to his son Benaya who was seriously wounded fighting on the Lebanese border: “I must say congratulations on the birth of your grandson. Wishing him to 120, together with Menachem Gandel who is here, and from all the residents of Nof HaGalil. Congratulations.”
The ceremony followed a series of government initiatives led by Smotrich to strengthen northern Israel, including the historic ₪3 billion investment package and expanded tax benefits designed to encourage growth and reinforce Jewish communities throughout the Galilee.