Controversy Over Establishment of Gwangsan Welfare Foundation and Incineration Facility in Gwangju: What Is the District Office's Position?

Kim Youngsun, Gwangsan District Council Member, Cites "Lack of Employment Stability and Public Discussion"
Emphasizes the Need to Maintain the Original Underground Plan and Secure Resident Agreements

Youngsun Kim, a member of the Gwangsan District Council (Democratic Party of Korea, Suwan-dong, Hanam-dong, Imgok-dong), questioned the establishment of the Gwangsan Welfare Foundation and the controversies surrounding the waste incineration facility during the 3rd plenary session of the 297th regular meeting of the Gwangsan District Council held on June 20. Kim demanded a clear position and countermeasures from the district office.

Youngsun Kim, a member of the Gwangsan District Council in Gwangju, is asking questions about district administration at the 3rd plenary session of the 297th regular meeting of the Gwangsan District Council.

First, regarding the establishment of the Gwangsan Welfare Foundation, Councilor Kim stated, "The research study must include a comparative analysis of general issues with foundations and the direct management welfare system." Kim inquired about the procedures for public discussion, the results of a cost-benefit analysis regarding the improvement of welfare service quality, and the potential for overlapping roles with the Together Nanum Culture Foundation. Kim also raised the possibility of operational conflicts arising from a multiple labor union system.

Regarding employment stability measures for fixed-term public officials, Kim pointed out, "There are concerns about whether converting to permanent public positions is an effective solution, and whether introducing written exams and AI personality tests may actually impose more burdens." In addition, Kim called for the establishment of employment stability measures, including the process and reliability of collecting signatures for the petition urging the establishment of the welfare foundation, as well as limited competitive recruitment and additional points for existing fixed-term public officials.

Kim also addressed the waste incineration facility, stating, "Gwangsan-gu has proactively considered attracting the incineration facility through resident briefings and other means, and Gwangju City has sought to alleviate residents' concerns by promoting the underground construction of the facility." Kim added, "Recently, rumors that the facility might be changed to an above-ground incinerator due to financial issues have increased residents' distrust."

Kim emphasized, "Gwangsan-gu must strive to ensure that the underground incineration facility proceeds as originally planned, and incentives for the host area, resident support projects, and development plans must be guaranteed through prior agreements." Kim also requested a detailed explanation of how residents' opinions will be collected and the procedures going forward.