Hwasun County Council Concludes the 276th Extraordinary Session

Review and Approval of 19 Agenda Items Including Ordinance Bills

On September 12, the Hwasun County Council in South Jeolla Province concluded its 12-day session with the 2nd plenary meeting of the 276th extraordinary session.

The Hwasun County Council concluded all its 12-day legislative schedule on the 12th with the 2nd plenary session of the 276th extraordinary meeting. Provided by Hwasun County Council

During this plenary meeting, a total of 19 items were reviewed and approved, including the 2025 Administrative Affairs Audit Plan, two proposals urging the complete lifting of development restriction zones in the Gwangju metropolitan area sponsored by Assemblyman Ha Seongdong, the 2nd supplementary budget bill for 2025 submitted by the Hwasun County Governor, 12 ordinance bills, and 4 general agenda items.

The 2nd supplementary budget bill for this year was formulated with a focus on restoring livelihoods and revitalizing the local economy, despite difficulties in securing independent financial resources due to the ongoing economic downturn and insufficient revenue. Through resource restructuring, the general and special account revenue and expenditure budgets were finalized following thorough reviews by each standing committee and the special budget and accounts committee.

During the '5-Minute Free Speech' session, Assemblywoman Jo Myeongsun proposed the introduction of an 'Artist Opportunity Income' system under the theme 'If Artists Stop Creating, Hwasun's Future Also Stops.' Assemblywoman Jo emphasized, "Culture and the arts are not just leisure activities, but core assets that enhance regional competitiveness." She further stated, "Artist Opportunity Income is a social investment that goes beyond welfare, aiming to build a local cultural ecosystem and improve residents' quality of life," and called on the executive branch to ensure stable livelihoods and creative continuity for artists.

Assemblyman Ryu Jongok, speaking on 'Measures to Improve the Treatment of Taxi Drivers to Strengthen Transportation Welfare,' suggested expanding voucher taxis, providing rest areas, adjusting taxi allocation by region to address imbalances between towns and villages, and improving the payment structure for corporate taxi advertising fees. He expressed hope that these measures would be actively reflected in county policies so that drivers can work stably and with pride.

Assemblywoman Kim Jisuk officially proposed the establishment of an 'Integrated Care Department' that would encompass medical, nursing, and care services, under the theme 'The Final Task of the 8th Popularly Elected Administration: Establishing Hwasun County's Integrated Care Department.' She stressed the need for a dedicated department due to insufficient administrative response compared to the increasing demand for care and an aging population. She also called for the creation of dedicated service counters and an increase in personnel at administrative welfare centers to address care disparities between towns and villages.

Assemblyman Kang Jaehong, under the theme 'The Neungju Food Industry Complex: Promises to the Community Must Be Kept,' pointed out issues with a specific company's contract non-fulfillment. He noted, "The industrial complex, into which 15.7 billion won has been invested, has been left idle for years, failing to meet residents' expectations and eliminating opportunities for other companies to move in." He urged the executive branch to thoroughly manage and supervise the fulfillment of promises, including an investment of 52.4 billion won and the creation of 560 jobs.

In his closing remarks, Chairman Oh Hyeongyeol stated, "All the issues raised and alternatives suggested by the assembly members stem from the perspective of our residents. I hope these will be thoroughly reviewed and actively reflected in project implementation."

Chairman Oh also added, "Please ensure thorough preparation and safety management for the successful hosting of the Hwasun Dolmen Autumn Flower Festival, which will be held from October 17 to 26. I wish everyone a bountiful and warm Chuseok holiday with your families and neighbors."