The Association of Ukrainian Cities (AUC) is actively opposing legislative initiatives that threaten local governance in Ukraine. Executive Director Oleksandr Slobozhan criticized a proposed bill limiting mayoral terms, citing constitutional concerns and potential negative impacts on residents. The AUC also voiced alarm over forced removal of mayors and increasing pressure on local authorities by law enforcement, highlighted by Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko. Furthermore, AUC demands the preservation of reverse subsidies and the single tax within community budgets to prevent disruptions in essential services like healthcare and education. The association criticizes the Government's Budget Declaration for reducing local community revenues and speaks against misguided allocation of "military" PIT, which remains largely unused for its intended purpose.
What are the main concerns of the Association of Ukrainian Cities?
The Association of Ukrainian Cities is concerned with legislative initiatives that undermine local governance, such as a bill limiting mayoral terms, pressure on local authority figures, and misallocation of funds. They advocate for the retention of reverse subsidies and single tax revenues in community budgets to maintain essential services and safeguard local governance autonomy.
How does the proposed bill affect mayoral terms in Ukraine?
The proposed bill seeks to impose limits on mayoral terms, which the Association of Ukrainian Cities argues is unconstitutional. They express concerns that such limits could negatively impact the effectiveness of local governance and deprive communities of experienced leadership, ultimately harming the residents they serve.
What stance does the AUC take on the withdrawal of the "military" PIT?
The AUC criticizes the decision to withdraw "military" personal income tax from local budgets, noting that more than half of the funds extracted have not been effectively utilized for military needs. They argue for the reinstatement of these funds to better support local communities and address financial shortfalls in essential services.
What is the AUC's position on local budget subsidies and taxes?
The Association of Ukrainian Cities strongly supports keeping reverse subsidies and the single tax within local budgets. They argue that these financial instruments are crucial for maintaining community autonomy and ensuring that essential services such as education, healthcare, and utilities remain operational, thereby protecting citizens from adverse economic impacts.
How is the AUC addressing pressure on local authorities?
The AUC, with leadership from figures like Vitali Klitschko, is vocal about the increasing pressure on local authorities by law enforcement and governmental forces. They highlight instances of forced removal of mayors and express the need for institutional support to ensure the autonomy and integrity of local governance structures across Ukraine.
