Major’s Remarks:
1. We extend our sincere gratitude to all colleagues for their unwavering dedication throughout the Taiwan Lantern Festival, from the illuminating moment when the lights first brightened the Anping Lantern Zone to the final glow of the double lantern zones at closing. Despite the festivities, our municipal administration duties continued seamlessly. I want to thank them again for their hard work.
2. Recently, there have been incidents of construction site mishaps and road collapses in several counties and cities. A similar incident also occurred in our city just last week. We extend our gratitude to all bureaus and departments for their concerted efforts in swiftly restoring the city's aesthetics and ensuring the flow of road traffic while also minimizing the repercussions of construction site collapses. We hope for the continuation of such effective governance across various measures and fronts.
3. An appalling case of toddler abuse surfaced in other cities yesterday. Social welfare units are urged to enhance vigilance and preventive measures. Regarding childcare matters, it is imperative to intensify visits and inspections of welfare facilities, childcare centers, as well as nanny services, within our city to prevent similar incidents. This ensures that infants, young children, and vulnerable groups receive optimal care under governmental oversight.
4. A report titled "Depository Banks and Interest Rates of Funds Belonging to Tainan City Government " has been presented. The Finance and Taxation Bureau is urged to explore strategies within legal parameters to enhance financial resources and alleviate financial burdens.
Reports
1. The Transportation Bureau presented a report titled "Progress and Prospects of Tainan City Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) Blue Line Advancement" (refer to written sources for details).
Resolution: Approved for reference filing.
Mayor’s Comments:
(1) The importance of MRT needs no further elaboration, yet its establishment is not a task that can be completed overnight. It is crucial for the Transportation Bureau to remain vigilant in monitoring the progress of MRT advancement and to keep citizens informed accordingly.
(2) The Transportation Bureau is asked to consider pedestrian space and the revitalization of urban functions in MRT design, aiming to foster a friendly environment and a thriving business district for future generations.
2. The Tourism Bureau presented a report titled "2024 Taiwan Lantern Festival Accomplishments" (refer to written sources for details).
Resolution: Approved for reference filing.
Mayor’s Comments:
(1) Our city hosted the Taiwan Lantern Festival with the spirit of commemorating a milestone event. We extend our gratitude to the Tourism and Travel Bureau, as well as various bureaus and departments, for their collaboration. Additionally, we appreciate the full support of the Tourism Administration of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, which contributed to making this city's lantern festival one of the most successful in history. Feedback collected from various sources, including online reactions, was overwhelmingly positive, underscoring the festival's remarkable success. We commend all bureaus and departments for their dedication and hard work.
(2) This lantern festival, surpassing the city's existing model, features seven lantern zones, each boasting unique features. Not only has it garnered countless compliments, but it has also drawn significant attendance. The consumer spending and accommodation rates of visiting tourists have directly impacted local businesses' income, boosting revenue from local dining, accommodations, and tourist attractions.
(3) There is no best, only better. For items in need of enhancement, all bureaus and departments are urged to collaborate on improvements. Additionally, all bureaus, departments, and schools are tasked with promptly addressing the removal of orchids and lights after the exhibition, ensuring their continued usefulness. The infrastructure of the Shalun and Anping Lantern Zones, including sidewalk leveling and basic power facilities, should not be seen as wasted investments but rather as valuable contributions to public infrastructure. These assets will continue to serve the public beyond the event. Relevant bureaus and departments are instructed to manage and implement these initiatives.