Olivera Doklestić, the leader of the Civic Movement for Herceg Novi’s “Idemooo!” list for the upcoming municipal elections, declared that her initial action in local government would be to replace the Secretary for Spatial Planning and Urbanism and the Secretary for Communal and Housing Affairs.

“They have made detrimental decisions, failing to take appropriate actions or managing their responsibilities. Following that, we must assess and replace all other management personnel, ensuring that competent individuals with proven qualifications and a responsible work ethic are appointed. This also extends to the boards of directors of municipal enterprises,” she stated in an interview with “Vijesti”.

The elections in Herceg Novi are set for April 13th, with nine lists vying for seats in the local parliament.

What percentage of citizen support do you expect in the elections?

We haven’t conducted any surveys or formal assessments. Wherever we go, we encounter supporters and gain encouragement. I believe we will surprise many.

Which parties would you cooperate with post-elections, and which ones would you not?

After the elections, everything will be clear. During the campaign, we are the only ones openly discussing the issues and proposing solutions. We have entered this political race for genuine, systematic changes, focusing on the dignity of knowledge and education, depoliticizing leadership roles, combating corruption, ensuring transparency, particularly concerning procurement and construction, and decentralizing decision-making. These beliefs will guide our post-election agreements.

What will be your first action if given the opportunity to govern?

My first action would be to replace the Secretary for Spatial Planning and Urbanism and the Secretary for Communal and Housing Affairs due to their harmful decisions and lack of oversight. Following that, we’ll conduct evaluations of all management personnel and appoint knowledgeable, qualified individuals with a strong sense of responsibility. The same applies to the boards of directors of municipal enterprises. This is essential for depoliticization and progress.

Herceg Novi’s water supply comes from Trebinje via Croatia, but annual cleaning of the pipeline often leads to restrictions. What will you do to resolve this issue, and what is the timeline and funding you foresee?

With my background as the former director of “Water Supply and Sewerage” (VIK) and as a civil engineer and hydrotechnician, I’m familiar with the challenges facing Herceg Novi’s water supply system. The Plat-Herceg Novi pipeline remains our best investment. Under my leadership from 2017 to December 2022, we significantly reduced water losses by over 15%, enabling uninterrupted supply during summer. Our aim was to enhance local resources, which we were on track to achieve. My removal as director interrupted this positive momentum.

If we gain a position in government, our focus will be on resuming our efforts from December 2022 and upgrading the current reservoir system to avoid unnecessary pumping stages.

How will you tackle the issue of wastewater discharge into the sea? What steps will you take to ensure the implementation of the treatment plant and collector project? Who do you hold accountable for this issue, and can it be resolved in the next four years if you gain power?

The collector is complete but cannot pass technical acceptance due to non-compliance with standards. The wastewater treatment plant in Meljine remains unfinished and poses risks. Both have been significant impediments for 13 years. While leading VIK, we maintained the collector but lacked ownership. The municipality has failed to make necessary investments for vital hydrotechnical infrastructure.

Now, funding has become available for rehabilitating the collector and completing the treatment plant, and it’s imperative that those responsible for past failures are held accountable. I support reinvesting in both projects to mitigate environmental damage and ensure functionality.

What steps will you take to bring European water polo back to Herceg Novi? Will you initiate the reconstruction of the pool for PVK “Jadran”?

PVK “Jadran” has its pool next to the Institute in Igalo, which was once a municipal investment. I see no need to abandon it, as upgrading the existing facility would be more economical and quicker than constructing a new one.

What will you do to eliminate party recruitment practices?

All parties claim to advocate for depoliticization during their campaigns. The “Idemooo!” movement has consistently promoted this since its inception. We will mandate competitive announcements and develop regulations for evaluation and ranking.

Are you satisfied with the Government’s restructuring plan for the Simo Milošević Institute? What aspects do you find problematic, and which do you consider effective?

The Institute remains a key economic asset in Herceg Novi, holding valuable property and land. An investigation into its financial losses and accountability for mismanagement is crucial. I lack faith in the government’s restructuring plans, given past failures. The plan proposes an investment of 88 million euros against 22 million in obligations. Financial support is necessary for repairs and staffing to restore its viability and profit potential without risking its conversion into real estate.

Do you support building a new hospital near the tunnel in Meljine, or advocate for the existing facility?

Absolutely not. The hospital should stay in its current site. A thorough investigation into past privatization is essential, and the state should advocate for the citizens’ best interests. Over six years, citizens have contributed funds, yet only a fraction has been invested. The current hospital, located on land tied to the Savina Monastery, holds cultural significance. While its functionality may seem compromised, it can be resolved through expansion, requiring far less investment than constructing a new facility. New equipment and staffing enhancements are required, without delay.

What will you do to ensure the adoption of pending planning documents in Herceg Novi?

Activities cannot proceed without proper planning documents. Serious attention must be given to developing these documents, while adhering to guidelines from the Cultural Heritage Administration and the Environmental Agency, as well as UNESCO directives. We will strive to expedite the plan adoption process.

Until we meet the bypass – small steps needed

Traffic congestion is a major issue in Herceg Novi, especially during the tourist season. Proposals like a bypass or an underwater tunnel have been suggested, but there are concerns about threatening the bay’s UNESCO status. How will you address this, within what timeframe, and what funding do you anticipate?

I have reservations about the proposed underwater tunnel due to environmental sensitivity. Similarly, the conceptual bridge lacks necessary studies to align with UNESCO requirements. The bypass is generally acceptable, but its proposed route involves complex environmental and agricultural considerations that require detailed research and careful planning. Until we secure the bypass, we must implement immediate solutions such as traffic management, vehicle monitoring, and local transport enhancements. Funding will need to come either from state resources or municipal borrowing, guided by a comprehensive techno-economic study.

News