Lee Chan-yeol: "KT&G Site Must Be Purchased by Local Government"

—On the demand for simultaneous ground-breaking of the Shinbundang Line extension.
▲Simultaneous ground-breaking is necessary and essential for Suwon citizens. Gyeonggi Province, Suwon City, and regional National Assembly members must coordinate with the central government to find a breakthrough. In particular, National Assembly members from Suwon should exercise political influence to gain cooperation from members of other regions in terms of securing budgets. The key to enabling simultaneous ground-breaking lies in securing funds.

—Your position on promoting Suwon as a Metropolitan City.
▲As Suwon City has exceeded 1 million in population and expanded as a large city, issues have been raised regarding environmental and transportation problems, as well as quality public services. Comparing the number of civil servants in Ulsan Metropolitan City—which has a similar population—on a 2006 basis, Suwon City has roughly two-thirds the number. This means Suwon citizens receive significantly fewer public services than those in Ulsan. Therefore, I believe there is a need to promote Suwon as a Metropolitan City. However, the promotion of Suwon Metropolitan City should prioritize thorough examination of fiscal autonomy and relationships with Gyeonggi Province and neighboring cities (Anyang, Bucheon, Seongnam, and Yongin).

—What about the relocation of Suwon Air Base?
▲While the discussion on air base relocation is important, compensation for residents in Suwon and Hwaseong who are affected by aircraft noise should be prioritized. The air base relocation issue should be discussed through joint coordination between Suwon City and Hwaseong City, residents' committees, and the political community with the central government. Various sectors should discuss relocation measures, but we must also consider the government's position and policies. Above all, it is desirable to prioritize compensation for damages caused by air base noise and other factors.

—How can we revitalize small self-employed businesses and traditional markets?
▲Although the overall economic situation is not bad, the perceived economy is in an unspeakably difficult state. Just as the economy improves when enterprises make capital investments, economic actors like citizens must engage in consumption to bring about a virtuous cycle of job creation. A positive mindset among citizens is important for revitalizing the local economy. There is a need to shift the mindset toward positive thinking that the economy will improve. Political leaders must present a vision for the future and inspire confidence that people's future incomes will increase. To revitalize traditional markets, infrastructure improvements such as parking facilities are urgently needed.

—What are the plans for utilizing the KT&G manufacturing plant site in Jungja-dong?
▲In conclusion, if Suwon City cannot purchase the KT&G site, the Province should purchase it and develop it as a 100% park. Of course, the financial burden will be considerable, and there will be strong desires for commercial development. However, we must return it as a place of rest and peace for Jangan-gu residents surrounded by apartment complexes. As housing development projects in areas like Jungja and Cheoncheon districts continue, green space in this region is insufficient. Efforts are needed to increase green space in areas filled with concrete.

—Regarding the designation of Gwanggyo Mountain as a Provincial Park and its conservation.
▲It is desirable to coordinate with Gyeonggi Province and pursue provincial park designation. However, most users of Gwanggyo Mountain are Suwon citizens. Taking this into account, it would be more efficient to pursue park designation with the interest and involvement of Suwon City and its citizens, promoting the direction of green space conservation. By gathering the wisdom and insight of the city and its residents, we can pass on a clean sanctuary to future generations.

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