hanam City Council Concludes Extraordinary Session, Debates Key Municipal Issues
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Council wraps Up 11-Day meeting, Addressing 20 Agendas
The hanam City Council recently concluded its 339th extraordinary session, a extensive 11-day meeting from April 15th to 25th.During this period, council members tackled a total of 20 agendas across various committees, including council steering, autonomous management, urban construction, and special budget settlement.
Heated Debates on Urban Development and Fiscal Policy
The second plenary session was particularly noteworthy, marked by vigorous debate and diverse perspectives on critical municipal issues. Urban development strategies and tax revenue policies were central topics, sparking intellectual discourse and the proposal of alternative policy solutions.
Key Proposals and Concerns Raised During Free Speech Segment
Several council members utilized the “5-minute free speech” segment to voice their concerns and propose policy changes:
Wirye Shrine Line Promotion Urged
Council member Park Sun-mi argued against what she described as “one-sided sacrifice” imposed by national power, advocating for the expedited promotion of the Wirye Shrine Line. This project is seen as crucial for improving transportation infrastructure and accessibility within the city.
Combating Gentrification Through Specialized Services
Chung hye-young emphasized the need for proactive measures to prevent gentrification, a phenomenon where urban regeneration leads to the displacement of existing businesses and residents. Citing examples from Seoul’s Gangnam district, where rapid development has pushed out long-term residents, Chung proposed the implementation of specialized services to analyze gentrification risks, develop effective countermeasures, and introduce a “Hanam-type public commission” to address the issue comprehensively.
The tragedy of gentrification…is no exception [in Hanam].
Representative Chung Hye-young
Financial Restructuring in Response to Economic Downturn
Lim Hee-do highlighted the necessity of restructuring financial expenditures in light of the current economic downturn, the slowdown in the real estate market, and reduced funding from the central government. Lim proposed that Hanam city should move away from fixed profit rates in contracts and instead consider the specific challenges and characteristics of each project. This policy adjustment aims to provide flexibility and resilience in the face of financial challenges.
Allegations of political interference
Kang Sung-sam raised serious concerns about alleged political interference in the Hanam administration. Kang accused the administration of unduly influencing private organizations, particularly regarding the order of city guests and the inclusion/exclusion of specific politicians in congratulatory speeches. Kang condemned such actions as a severe abuse of power.
Puppet Hanam Administration, Who’s Instructions?
Representative Kang Sung-sam
Budget Adjustments and Fiscal Prudence
The Special Committee on Budget Settlement conducted a thorough review of the 2025 general and special accounting budget, resulting in a ₩1.87 billion increase, bringing the total to ₩670.99 trillion. Adjustments were made to various allocations,reflecting a commitment to fiscal responsibility.
- Autonomous administration and Citizens’ Communication Council attendance allowance: Reduced by ₩4.16 million.
- Cultural policy and Hanam Mujim Festival: Reduced by ₩75 million.
- Welfare of the elderly: Reduced by ₩5 million.
Oh Ji-yeon, chairman of the Special Committee on Budget Settlement, emphasized the committee’s dedication to ensuring that taxpayer money is used efficiently and effectively, particularly in light of the current economic climate.
Considering the arduous fiscal conditions, we have carefully deliberated so that precious taxes are not wasteful and can be used efficiently where it is indeed necessary.
Oh Ji-yeon, chairman of the Special Committee on Budget Settlement