Questions at the Ličko-Seni County Assembly

During the sixth session of the Licko-Senj County Assembly held recently, members focused heavily on the future and utilization of two crucial watercourses in the region for commercial purposes. The agenda included 55 items, but the most engaging part was the extended "Actual" segment where numerous questions were raised, going beyond the usual time constraints. Members of the assembly showed increasing interest in the fate and usage of these important water resources. One of the topics discussed was the activities of the Nature Protection and Conservation Institution within the Licko-Senj County regarding the protection of the Gacko field. Deputy Mayor Jasna Orešković Brkljačić explained that their efforts have been directed towards hydrological and speleological analysis of the Gacko field, which is considered one of the most extensive systematic analyses of sinkhole zones in the area. This research has improved understanding of the region and its underground systems, enabling better planning for future conservation measures. Another question addressed was about the possibility of reinstating the traffic court in Otoc. Mayor Ernest Petry responded that the county would send a letter to the Municipal Court in Gospić concerning the organization of the traffic court's operations in the Otoc area. According to available information, after hiring new staff, regular days should be organized in Otoc so residents of Otoc, Brinja, and Vrhovina would not need to travel to Gospić. Member Danijel Tušak raised three questions regarding the situation with the large hydroelectric power system project Senj 2, asking about the activities undertaken by the county to protect cultural and historical sites in the area. Mayor Petry indicated that clarification must be sought from HEP, as it is necessary to know precisely in which phase this significant project worth around 600 million euros is currently. Tušak also inquired about the status of current investments in county and local roads, as well as the use of EU funds for the development of the county and demographic recovery. Written responses will be provided to Tušak, although the mayor’s answer suggests that the county is developing and creating better conditions for demographic recovery. The agenda also featured reports on the work of the mayor for the second half of 2025, reports on the work and financial operations of county institutions and trading companies, the annual report on the implementation of the Licko-Senj County budget for 2025, and the first amendment and supplement to the budget for 2026 with projections for 2027 and 2028. Members also discussed reports on the implementation of orders and recommendations from the State Audit Office, the work of the County Council of Youth and the Committee for Oversight of the Work of Mortuary Services, among other reports related to the operations of county bodies and institutions. Discussions covered security conditions in the Licko-Senj County area, the state of firefighting services and civil defense systems, the implementation of public sports needs programs, and the work of the County Road Administration, the Health House of Licko-Senj County, the Institute for Emergency Medicine, and the Institute for Public Health. Decisions were made on several matters related to education, including funding for primary and secondary education, changes to the statutes of educational institutions, expansion of activities at certain educational institutions and health houses, and management of school property. The session highlighted the diverse range of issues being addressed by the assembly, reflecting the complex challenges faced by the county. From environmental concerns to infrastructure development and educational reforms, the discussions underscored the multifaceted nature of governance in the region. As the county moves forward, continued attention to these critical areas will be essential for sustainable development and community well-being.