The Obaland Magazine team recently had the privilege of spending a day with the President of the Torino City Council. During the visit, our journalist had the opportunity to conduct an exclusive interview, delving into her journey and current role as the leader of the council.
A Reflective Look at Thirty Months of Leadership
As we sat down with the President, she shared her reflections on the first thirty months of her tenure. “These years have been both challenging and rewarding,” she began. “We have made significant strides in promoting transparency and encouraging citizen participation. From live-streaming council sessions to publishing detailed meeting summaries, our efforts have made the workings of the council more accessible to the public. However, there is always more to be done to bridge the gap between the citizens and their institutions.”
Bringing Citizens Closer to the Council
One of the key themes of our discussion was her commitment to bringing the council closer to the people. She enthusiastically described several initiatives aimed at this goal. “We introduced the ‘Open Council Days,’ allowing citizens to attend and actively participate in council sessions. Additionally, we launched an online platform where citizens can submit proposals and suggestions, which are then discussed in the relevant committees. Looking ahead, we are developing a ‘Participatory Budget’ project, enabling citizens to directly decide on the allocation of part of the municipal budget. This will strengthen the connection between the council and the community.”
Championing Social Inclusion and Multiculturalism
The President also highlighted the council’s dedication to promoting human rights, social inclusion, and multiculturalism. “We have initiated numerous projects to support social inclusion,” she explained. “For instance, the ‘Welcome Project’ provides assistance to new residents and asylum seekers. Another example is the ‘Work Inclusion Program,’ offers training and job opportunities for people with disabilities. Additionally, we established the ‘Multicultural Center,’ a place for different ethnic communities to meet and exchange ideas. These initiatives reflect our ongoing commitment to a more inclusive and cohesive Torino.”
Driving Urban Renewal and Transformation
Discussing the major projects under the council’s review, the President provided insights into Torino’s ongoing transformation. “One of our key initiatives is the ‘Urban Regeneration Plan,’ aimed at revitalizing abandoned areas by converting them into green spaces and cultural centres. Another significant project is ‘Torino Smart City,’ which involves implementing advanced technologies to improve urban mobility and reduce environmental impact. We are also working on the ‘Metropolitan Project’ to enhance connections between the city centre and the suburbs, thereby improving accessibility and quality of life across Torino.”
Envisioning Torino’s Future
When asked about the future of Torino, the President expressed optimism and a clear vision. “Torino is undergoing a significant transition from its industrial roots to a city focused on the tertiary sector, research, and higher education. Our goal is to support this transformation with policies that foster innovation and entrepreneurship. The City Council will play a crucial role in ensuring that this transition is equitable and sustainable, promoting economic development while also prioritizing social inclusion and environmental protection. Collaboration with universities, research centres, and businesses will be essential in creating a dynamic and attractive ecosystem for talent and investment.”
Conclusion
The interview concluded with the President reiterating her commitment to serving the people of Torino. Her leadership has been marked by a dedication to transparency, citizen engagement, and social inclusion. As Torino continues to evolve, the President’s vision and initiatives promise to guide the city toward a prosperous and inclusive future. Obaland Magazine thanks the President for her time and insights, and we look forward to witnessing the continued progress of Torino under her leadership.
