The Orehovica municipality has warned of increasingly frequent cases of vandalism and destruction of public property in its area. Significant damage has recently been recorded on public spaces and premises owned by the municipality, with green and park areas among the most affected.
According to municipality data, shelters within bus stops have been devastated, repainted, broken and destroyed. Inventory in community centres has also been damaged, with property being destroyed, while the destruction of traffic signs and other traffic infrastructure has also been recorded.
Municipal Mayor Ladislav Požgaj highlighted that significant budgetary funds are allocated for the development of the settlement and the maintenance of public spaces. Požgaj stated that these funds could be directed towards new projects and improving the quality of life for residents, rather than being used to repair damage.
In addition to vandalism, illegal, unauthorised waste dumps represent a major problem, with their remediation meaning a significant financial outlay for the municipality. Stray dogs are also an issue — attacks on children and residents have been recorded, and 20,000.00 euros was allocated from the municipal budget for their care over the past two years.
The Mayor is appealing to residents to respect the decisions of the Municipal Council on public order and to maintain building facades, gardens and courtyards. He called on citizens to report irresponsible individuals who pollute the environment and bring waste to areas outside official dumps.
Municipal public order services will take all measures and actions with the help of technical aids, namely video surveillance. Požgaj also appealed to educational institutions and parents to educate children about protecting the environment.
