Yeongam County has sought solutions to local issues, ranging from agricultural distribution and sales to tourism promotion, urban revitalization, and the settlement of foreign residents, in discussions with residents from 11 towns and villages.
The county announced on September 10 that it has concluded the '2026 Basic Happiness Dialogue with Residents,' which took place from August 31 to September 7.
This year's dialogue moved beyond traditional methods of explaining county policies or addressing individual complaints, instead facilitating direct discussions between residents and the county mayor on local issues.
The common agenda for the 11 towns and villages was set as, 'What changes are needed for our agricultural products to receive fair prices?'
Rather than solely focusing on increasing agricultural production, the discussions emphasized gathering residents' opinions on the distribution structures and sales methods that would allow farmers to receive appropriate prices for their products.
Each town and village addressed different issues based on their unique circumstances. In Yeongam-eup, discussions centered on creating attractive destinations using Dalmaji Park and Yeongam Fortress. In Samho-eup, the focus was on fostering a community where both domestic and foreign residents can live together, centered around the Daebul residential complex.
Deokjin-myeon discussed linking the opening of a highway to regional development, while Geumjeong-myeon explored revitalization strategies utilizing Baengbaengi Valley. In Sinbuk-myeon, residents shared ideas on attracting people to the area and enhancing its vibrancy.
Utilization of tourism resources was also a key topic. In Sijong-myeon, discussions included developing Mahaan Cultural Park and ancient tombs as tourist attractions, while Gunseo-myeon focused on the Gurim Tourist Site, and Seoho-myeon discussed prehistoric habitation sites.
In Dopa-myeon, the conversation revolved around using community centers, while Haksan-myeon discussed the Haksan Nuri Platform, and Mi-am-myeon focused on Mi-am Elementary School and a communication café, aiming to transform existing facilities into practical community spaces.
Yeongam County plans to share the residents' feedback from this dialogue with relevant departments and will consider incorporating the discussed issues into policy development.
The county will also review any reported inconveniences or individual project proposals through departmental assessments and on-site evaluations to determine their feasibility.
Woo Seung-hee, the mayor of Yeongam County, stated, “It is significant that we have moved beyond merely explaining policies and listening to suggestions, engaging residents in discussions about local issues.” He added, “We will continue to discuss the opinions raised in the field to ensure they lead to real changes in the community.”
Meanwhile, Yeongam County will have relevant departments review the common proposals for improving agricultural distribution and sales discussed during the dialogue, and will consider incorporating feasible suggestions into future policy and project plans.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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