Rauna to Hold Public Discussion on Tourism and Infrastructure After Resident Mobilization
On July 29, Rauna parish will hold a meeting to discuss tourism, public infrastructure, and utility services, following recent resident protests that led to the restoration of public toilet and tower hours.
The Rauna Parish Administration has called a meeting for July 29 at 5:30 PM at the Rauna Cultural Centre. The agenda covers two main topics: the tourism situation in the parish and the quality of services provided by SIA "Smiltenes NKUP". Participants are expected to include parish head Linda Zūdiņa, Smiltenes Municipality Council chairman Ervins Labanovskis, representatives of the Business and Tourism Department, and others.
Residents are encouraged to submit questions in advance by email. The meeting follows a recent incident where locals protested a municipal decision to reduce the operating hours of public toilets. In May, residents began collecting signatures for a collective letter, arguing the toilets near shops and bus stops were essential for both locals and tourists. After just one week, the municipality reversed the decision, restoring daily hours from 8 AM to 7 PM and allocating additional funding.
Discussions are also expected to address paid parking at the Rauna Staburags and the entrance fee to the castle ruins tower. Since June 1, parking costs €2 for cars and €5 for larger vehicles. Entry to the tower is €1, free for under 18s. Parking is free for Smiltenes municipality residents, disabled persons, and emergency services. Fines for non-payment are €30, reduced to €15 if paid within 14 days. The municipality estimates parking revenue at €8,000–10,000 per year.
Zūdiņa emphasized the importance of hearing residents before making decisions. Additionally, SIA "Smiltenes NKUP" plans to hold regular meetings with residents at least once a year to improve communication.
