Mayor's Memo, Presented at the Local Council Meeting on January 11, 2024

Hello to everyone in Rangárþing eystra,

I hope you had a great New Year. Thanks for all your support in the past. It's a new year, and I'm eager to share some updates with you. Let's make 2024 a fantastic year for our community!

Project on Waste Management Costs

In November, we were invited to join a project on waste management costs. Rangárþing eystra, along with Garðabær, Ísafjarðarbær, Skagafjörður, and Suðurnesjabær, got selected. This project helps us understand how much it costs to manage waste in our area. We'll get the first results in March, and by June 2024, we'll have a full picture.

Meeting with the Police Chief

Between Christmas and New Year, I had a meeting with the South Iceland police chief. We talked about making our police department stronger and adding more jobs in our district. There's also a plan to buy the Fire Protection Rangárvalla County premises for a new rescue center in Hvolsvell. Plus, we've improved the police duty schedule to have 24-hour coverage in Rangárþing.

National Matters

We're working hard on plans for public lands in Rangárþing eystra. This includes plots for mountain cabins and structures related to tourism in Emstrum and Þórsmörk. The Ministry of the Presidency manages these lands, but we're in charge of distributing them. Soon, we'll let you know about opportunities to get involved.

Construction Plans

Construction on the central plot of Hvolsvelli will start soon, bringing in two apartment buildings. We're finalizing the number of apartments and the design. There's also a proposal for a hotel on Austurvegur 14, lot LAVA. The first phase aims to have around 100 rooms and is expected to start in the coming seasons.

Plot Allocations in Hallgerðartún

In November, the regional council assigned 13 plots in Hallgerðurtún and Skógi. Due to high demand, not everyone got the plot they wanted. It's exciting to see our neighborhood growing, and we're already planning for more land allocations in Bergthórugerði.

Public Defense Committee Meeting in Vík

In December, the Public Defense Committee met in Vík to review projects and revise plans. We're focusing on doing joint exercises with responders in our area, and we're already working on the next exercises.

Multicultural Council of Rangárþing eystra

The inaugural meeting of the newly formed Multicultural Council of Rangárþing eystra took place at the municipality's town hall on January 10. A call for interested individuals to join the council resulted in a strong response, showcasing a keen interest in participating in its projects. The council consists of five representatives along with its employee, and meetings are conducted in English. The establishment of this council is a cause for celebration, and I am confident it will contribute positively to our community.

The council's role includes providing advice to the local government and municipal committees on matters and interests concerning residents of Rangárþing eystra with immigrant and foreign backgrounds. Additionally, the council serves as a platform for consultation with immigrant residents, aiming to foster a multicultural society. Currently, approximately 30% of Rangárþing eystra's population comprises foreign residents, a figure expected to rise in the coming years. It is crucial that we extend a warm welcome, provide support, and assist them in integrating into our community as active participants in our future.

Closing Thoughts

While the current weather in Iceland may be hinting at spring, it's important to remember that winter persists. As we anticipate various weather conditions, including frost and snow, it's heartening to witness the gradual lengthening of days. A delightful time for residents is approaching, marked by community-wide events throughout the municipality. These gatherings offer a fantastic opportunity to connect with neighbors, fostering happiness and camaraderie. Moreover, they provide a platform to humorously reflect on the highlights of the past year in our community.

As we enjoy the coming season, take a moment to savor the simple joys and embrace the door of happiness at your own pace.

Anton Kári Halldórsson Mayor of Rangárþing eystra