Jindo County is strengthening community engagement in preparation for the Rural Basic Income pilot project while also accelerating the expansion of care infrastructure in island areas with limited access to medical and welfare services.
The county announced the completion of town hall meetings held from October 14 to 16 to discuss the Rural Basic Income pilot project.
These meetings aimed to inform residents about the policy's intent and criteria while exploring local participation strategies ahead of the upcoming application process.
On the final day, meetings were held in Imhoe-myeon and Jodo-myeon to gather resident feedback.
Building on previous application experiences, the county emphasized the importance of developing community-led initiatives that ensure the basic income contributes to revitalizing the local economy rather than merely providing consumption support.
The county also addressed ways to mitigate the concentration of consumption in specific areas and ensure that economic benefits are evenly distributed across different towns.
Additionally, the county shared examples from other local governments and proposed business models that reflect Jindo's unique characteristics, including the discovery of essential services, regular delivery of daily necessities, and the establishment of sales networks for local agricultural and fishery products.
Mayor Lee Jae-gak stated, "Rural Basic Income is not just about income support; it is a policy that empowers residents to identify necessary projects for their community and invigorate the local economy. I urge residents to actively participate and share their opinions to enhance Jindo County's competitiveness in the application process."
After the meeting in Jodo-myeon, Mayor Lee visited the site of the upcoming 'Integrated Care Center for Island Areas' planned for the former Bird Island site in Changyuri to assess the project's progress.
The center will serve as a tailored care hub for elderly residents in island areas, enabling them to access medical, nursing, and welfare services without having to travel to the mainland or leave their hometowns.
The facility will include a senior welfare center, day and night care services, and an integrated home care center that connects visiting nursing and care services.
The county aims to reduce gaps in care services caused by geographical constraints in island areas and improve the stability of life and accessibility to welfare for elderly residents.
Earlier, the county engaged with the Ministry of Health and Welfare's Integrated Care Policy Division in September to confirm details about related pilot projects and application directions.
Mayor Lee emphasized, "Due to its geographical characteristics surrounded by the sea, Jodo-myeon faces challenges in accessing care services. We will work diligently to ensure that the Integrated Care Center becomes a solid foundation for residents to receive systematic care services in their beloved hometown."
Meanwhile, Jindo County plans to simultaneously prepare for the Rural Basic Income application and expand care infrastructure in island areas to improve residents' living conditions and revitalize the local economy.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.