ArmInfo. In 2020, the process of consolidation of the Armenian communities will continue. On October 29, Minister of Territorial Administration and Infrastructures of the Republic of Armenia Suren Papikyan stated this in an interview with reporters.
According to him, the enlargement of the communities is not made for political reasons, but is aimed at strengthening their capabilities. If this or that community does not want to follow the path of enlargement, it can solve this issue by holding a local referendum, according to the law "On Local Referendum". The Minister also announced that next year the process of optimization of various structures of the department will continue. By the beginning of 2020, the Ministry has 314 employees, however, as a result of the merger of a number of government agencies, this number will be reduced by eliminating repeated functions. The saved money will be used both to increase salaries and to pay bonuses to distinguished employees. The main goal of optimization, continued Suren Papikyan, is to increase the efficiency of the activities of his department.
The minister also pointed out the importance of centralizing the state revenue system, which would not only save state resources, but would eliminate possible corruption risks. He also noted that it was not possible to reach a consensus on lighting the streets of Yerevan on the application of the capital's municipality for 1.3 billion drams. However, discussions are ongoing, and there is every reason to say that the application will be approved. It is not only about laying hanging wires underground, but also about installing energy-saving LED lamps. The program of reconstruction of the city of Gyumri will also continue. This project was delayed for 2 years for a number of reasons, due to the presence of 3-4 meters of communication networks that needed to be put in order. Nevertheless, this year, as a result of large-scale work, a significant amount of activities was carried out. In 2020, 12 streets will also have to be repaired in Gyumri. The programs of building roads, communications, transport interchanges, strengthening school buildings, etc. will also continue.
To note, the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructures will receive 304 billion drams in 2020 by the draft budget. Most of these funds will be used to implement infrastructure projects and support local governments. A total 117 activities are to be carried out in 20 programs. In particular, 55.4 billion drams will be allocated to support communities in the form of grants.