Mayor’s Remarks:
1. The substantial rainfall brought by typhoons and heavy downpours from mid-June to mid-August has significantly aided in alleviating the drought conditions in Tainan. As of now, the water stress level for Tainan has been downgraded to “green.” The Dengue fever outbreak that occurred in early June was further exacerbated by the continuous rain, leading to the proliferation of disease-carrying vectors in stagnant water containers, puddles on roads, and tree holes. This has made Dengue fever prevention and control significantly more challenging and has put considerable strain on concerned departments. I urge all departments to persist in their diligent disease prevention efforts and to continue enhancing public awareness of Dengue fever prevention measures. It is crucial to ensure that the public fully comprehends the severity of the situation and to garner their support. Without widespread public support, more obstacles will stand in the way of epidemic prevention efforts. Unlike past dengue fever outbreaks in our city, which were caused Dengue serotype 2, this year's outbreak is mainly caused by serotype 1. If cross-infections occur, the consequences could be severe. All of these factors need to be effectively communicated through various platforms and media to educate citizens and encourage them to respond with heightened caution. Dengue fever cases in Tainan are a result of imported cases. I strongly advise all departments to pay close attention to cases imported from outside of Tainan and to strengthen epidemic prevention efforts accordingly.
2. Tomorrow (the 16th) marks the beginning of the 7th month in the lunar calendar. I urge concerned departments to heighten their awareness of water safety and to minimize incidents of water-related accidents. During this period, Tainan is set to host several traditional events, including the Qixi Festival and the Coming-of-age Ceremony. Concerned departments should prepare appropriate measures for these events.
3. The pomelo harvesting season is around the corner. This year, due to low rainfall, the majority of fruits are smaller sized. I ask the Agriculture Bureau to assist in developing domestic distribution channels and expanding export routes, with the goal of boosting the income of local farmers. Furthermore, the Agricultural Bureau should continue promoting traceability certifications, establishing a distinctive regional brand image, and creating a “Tainan pomelo brand” overseas, while promoting Madou pomelos within Taiwan.
Announcements
1. The Civil Affairs Bureau’s report on building and revitalizing community centers in Tainan City (refer to written sources for details)
Decision: Approved for reference filing
Mayor’s Remarks:
(1) As times change, the public's demands for community centers also evolve. However, at its core, community centers remain a universally recognized hub for community gatherings. Community centers also serve as hubs for education, exhibitions, and elder care. Over the past four years, the municipal government has allocated funding for the construction and revitalization of more than 43 community centers. Currently, there are still 44 neighborhoods that do not have a community center. The municipal government will continue to seek subsidies from the central government, aspiring to gradually establish community centers that cater to the evolving needs of citizens.
(2) The municipal government's establishment of community centers aims to provide the public with dedicated spaces for events. I ask the Civil Affairs Bureau to assess the demand for neighborhood activity centers, establish priority criteria, and oversee district offices. Beyond physical upkeep, the focus should be on invigorating these centers through functional enhancements. By integrating community celebrations, educational programs, and elderly care activities, we can fully leverage the opportunities that these spaces offer to benefit the public.
(3) Please evaluate the utilization levels of existing community centers and enhance their multifaceted use. This could involve collaborations involving community associations, elderly care, daytime programs, childcare services, communal meals, parent-child initiatives, and other ventures.
2. The Cultural Affairs Bureau’s report on the 2023 Tainan International Music Festival (refer to written sources for details)
Decision: Approved for reference filing
Mayor’s Remarks:
(1) As the cultural capital of Taiwan, Tainan provides a platform for cultural events that cater to both profound and easily understandable tastes, ensuring that there's something for everyone to appreciate. The Tainan International Music Festival, which commenced two years ago, garnered significant recognition from our citizens. As we approach the third edition this year, our hopes are set even higher, with the festival scheduled to take place from September 2 to October 14. This event not only offers our citizens a chance to immerse themselves in arts, culture, and music but also serves as a gateway for people from other municipalities to explore Tainan's status as a cultural epicenter. The music festival we organize is indeed worthy of acclaim and attendance.
(2) I would like to thank the Cultural Affairs Bureau for its efforts in planning for this event. The Cultural Affairs Bureau should pay special attention to the supplementary measures related to the event, encompassing aspects such as parking arrangements, shuttle services, and environmental cleanliness. By addressing these details, we can prevent issues such as traffic congestion, accidents, and disorderly surroundings. Deputy Mayor Yeh will help coordinate with concerned departments to ensure thorough pre-event planning.
(3) I ask the Bureau of Education and the Cultural Affairs Bureau to collaborate in setting aside slots for performance staff. These slots should be allocated to the school bands of our city's high schools, junior high schools, and elementary schools that have garnered awards in national competitions. This gesture will allow these student musicians to actively partake in the grand celebration that is the music festival.