Marko Gasser appointed as State Councillor

Marko Gasser has been elected as the new member of the National Council of Slovenia, representing the lower part of Gorenjska. The vote took place during an electoral assembly in Kranj, where Gasser received 19 out of 35 votes cast by electors. He will replace former mayor Ivan Meglič, who was appointed as the state secretary at the Ministry of Local Self-Government. Gasser, currently the mayor of Železniki, aims to represent the interests of the municipalities in the region, focusing on financial decisions and projects affecting local communities. The election occurred on August 21, 2026, with the formal results expected to be announced by the State Electoral Commission later in the week. The electoral assembly was held in the administrative building in Kranj, which serves as the central hub for the ninth electoral district encompassing the southern part of Gorenjska. Among five candidates, Gasser emerged as the chosen representative, securing support from Kranj City Municipality along with Železniki and Gorenja Vas-Poljane. Other contenders included Ciril Kozjek, mayor of Šenčur, Primož Povše, acting mayor of Naklo, and Branko Celar and Darja Snedec from Škofja Loka and Preddvor. Gasser explained his decision to run for the position, stating that as the mayor of Železniki, he has firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by local municipalities. His primary goal in the National Council will be to advocate for the municipalities of lower Gorenjska, ensuring their voices are heard in decisions regarding funding and infrastructure projects. He emphasized the importance of addressing issues where the national government plays a role, aiming to expedite solutions to problems that affect local governance. One of Gasser's key priorities over the remainder of the year will be assisting in the drafting of legislation aimed at simplifying changes to municipal spatial plans and reducing the time required for their approval. This initiative is intended to streamline processes that have often been criticized for being slow and bureaucratic. Additionally, Gasser highlighted the need for improved traffic infrastructure, flood protection measures, economic development, and the preservation of jobs. He also pledged to work towards better conditions for agriculture, recognizing its significance in the regional economy. The appointment of Gasser follows a period of transition within the National Council, as Meglič moves into a new role at the ministry. This shift underscores the dynamic nature of political representation in Slovenia, where local leaders frequently take on national responsibilities. Gasser’s election reflects the growing emphasis on local governance and the need for effective communication between municipal authorities and the national legislature. As a newly elected council member, Gasser faces the challenge of balancing the diverse interests of the municipalities he represents while contributing to broader legislative efforts. His focus on practical reforms and immediate concerns highlights the expectations placed upon him by both local communities and national policymakers. With his background in municipal administration, Gasser is positioned to bring a pragmatic approach to the National Council, emphasizing collaboration and efficiency in addressing regional needs.