Jang Gyu-cheol, Member of the Michuhol District Council, "Why is the Market Price of a 5 Million Won Pergola 15 Million Won?"... Direct Hit on 'Budget Bloat'

Concerns have been raised that the cost of replacing park facilities in Incheon Michuhol District is excessively high compared to market prices. There is criticism that while the district is passive about residents' long-awaited projects due to budget shortages, it is investing excessive budgets in facility installations, indicating a misalignment in administration.

On the 29th, during the 293rd extraordinary session of the Welfare and Construction Committee, Jang Gyu-cheol (People Power Party, Yonghyeon 5, Hakik 1, Gwangkyo, Munhak) pointed out the issues regarding park remodeling and street tree maintenance projects.

Jang focused on questioning the replacement cost of the pergola (shade house) in the forsythia rest area remodeling project. When the district office estimated the installation cost of one pergola at about 15 million won, Jang criticized, "Even if you look for the highest quality products on the market, 5 million won is sufficient," and added, "It's a waste of residents' tax money to set a price three times higher than what can be found with a simple search on portal sites like Naver."

He emphasized, "We should not only install a simple rain cover but also consider structural issues that allow wind to enter, creating a space where residents can actually rest comfortably."

He also urged for policy changes regarding the persistent complaints about ginkgo street trees in the area. Jang stated, "Currently, 50% of the street trees in the district are ginkgo trees, which pose a high risk of slipping accidents due to the foul smell of the fruit and wet fallen leaves," and ordered, "Instead of always blaming the budget, establish a 'long-term roadmap' to gradually replace tree species at regular intervals each year."

He urged the relevant department head, saying, "Please establish a forward-looking plan to create a street tree path that reflects the unique character of Michuhol District before your retirement."

He did not hide his disappointment regarding the lack of communication in the process of resolving local complaints. Regarding the installation of a bus shelter in front of Hakik Complex 4, Jang said, "The district office said it couldn't be done due to budget constraints despite residents' continuous requests, but suddenly brought in a surplus shelter from Yeonsu District and installed it," adding, "While the complaint was ultimately resolved, it is very regrettable that there was no communication with local council members during the process."

He also pointed out that the wooden parts of the installed shelter are rough, causing inconvenience for residents, and requested immediate on-site inspection and repairs.

A district official responded, "We are complying with regulations such as unit price contracts when estimating facility unit prices, but we will review cost-saving measures as you mentioned," and added, "We will also actively improve street tree maintenance and communication regarding complaints."