We all started collecting signatures for the referendum.

A civil initiative named "Vsi smo Kulturni dom" has begun collecting signatures to initiate a referendum in Nova Gorica, Slovenia. The proposed referendum would ask residents of the city's municipality to decide whether to enact a local ordinance establishing a public institution called "Kulturni dom." This move comes after the initiative gathered enough support to qualify for the process. The campaign began on September 1, 2026, with the goal of gathering signatures from at least 1,300 voters, representing five percent of eligible voters in the Municipality of Nova Gorica. Signatures can be submitted either in person at the municipal office or electronically through the verified eUprava platform. According to Barbara Poša Belingar, one of the members of the initiative, the collection period will run until October 5, with the referendum itself scheduled for November, coinciding with local elections. She explained that holding the vote alongside other elections could increase voter turnout and legitimacy while allowing for more efficient use of public funds. The proposed ordinance would require the Cultural Center Nova Gorica to take on new responsibilities starting July 1, 2027. Specifically, it would assign the center the task of managing the heritage of the European Capital of Culture (EPK). At the same time, the public institution GO!2025 would be dissolved. The initiative opposes this change, arguing that GO!2025 should remain active as originally planned rather than its functions being transferred to the Cultural Center. They claim that the current proposal lacks sufficient professional and public discussion, and that key financial implications have not been adequately addressed. Poša Belingar emphasized that the decision to transfer responsibilities was made without proper expert analysis or comprehensive presentation of long-term financial consequences. She pointed out that there was no evaluation of the costs associated with reorganization, nor were the long-term impacts of the change clearly outlined. Additionally, she noted that the initiative believes the cultural center should not assume duties related to the EPK heritage unless it is fully understood how these responsibilities will affect the budget and operations of the organization. The debate over the future of GO!2025 and the Cultural Center reflects broader concerns about transparency and accountability in local governance. Supporters of the referendum argue that the current approach risks undermining the unique role of GO!2025, which was established with specific objectives tied to the European Capital of Culture designation. Meanwhile, proponents of the proposed ordinance believe that integrating certain functions into the Cultural Center could streamline services and better serve the community’s cultural needs. As the signature collection continues, the initiative faces both challenges and opportunities. Public engagement will be crucial in determining whether the referendum reaches the necessary threshold. With the deadline approaching, the group plans to intensify outreach efforts, including engaging with residents near the municipal building. Their strategy includes raising awareness about the potential impact of the proposed changes and encouraging participation in the voting process. The outcome of the referendum will depend on the level of public support and the clarity of the arguments presented by both sides. As the campaign moves forward, the focus remains on ensuring that all stakeholders have access to accurate information and that the final decision reflects the will of the community.