Håkan
Forss
Pietarsaari
"For a city in development! I want to participate in the development of a city where services function from birth to grave. A city where families with children are satisfied with daycare, education, and leisure activities, where everyday life runs sustainably, where seniors do not feel forgotten, and where entrepreneurs are eager to establish themselves."
As a native of Jakobstad, I love our archipelago and nature. I am married, have three adult children and one grandchild. My work experience comes from 30 years in the export industry, and I have had the main responsibility when the company for the city's various service departments, such as catering, cleaning services, street maintenance, property management, construction, gardening and sports services, was established. I have a background in sports clubs where I have been, and still am, active both as a participant and coach. I have previously served on the education committee and as the long-time chairman of the sports committee. Through my work with the city's service production, I am well acquainted with how political decision-making and practical implementation work.
Important political topics
Thriving citizens
For the well-being of the residents, good early childhood education and good and pleasant schools, functioning community services, facilities for sports, exercise, and a good cultural life are needed. Jakobstad already has all of this at a good level today, but we must constantly work to maintain and develop these.
Economy & Business
For a prosperous society, it is essential that the economy is balanced. The best way to generate tax revenue is to pursue a business-friendly policy that attracts new establishments and creates new jobs. At the same time, it is important to remember to take responsibility for the climate, environment, and nature and to consider these in decision-making. I am convinced that it is possible to pursue a policy that is both business-friendly and environmentally friendly.
Equality and Equity
As a Swedish speaking Finn, we have often experienced that equality between languages does not always work in practice. In our own city, we must ensure that the Finnish speakers, who are a minority today, are treated equally. To meet the long-term labor needs, more immigration will be needed. We should consider this at all stages so that integration into our society can happen smoothly. This includes housing planning, housing policy, and education, but also creating a welcoming environment in areas such as sports, art, and culture.
Candidate's answers in election machine
1 / 14
We need a youth center in the town center.
We already have a youth center, \\\"Tobaksmagasinet,\\\" in Jakobstad. We should investigate whether the activities there can be developed or if a new gathering place for the youth is truly needed. It is clear that they need a place.
2 / 14
Considering the development and competitiveness of the business sector, we should merge with neighboring municipalities.
From a business perspective, the Jakobstad region is a whole. This is not considered when, for example, statistics are compiled, which can lead to the region\'s activities being underestimated and state investments being omitted. A unified municipality would have significantly greater national weight.
3 / 14
We need more tourism investments in Fäboda.
Fäboda is a sensitive natural area highly appreciated by the city\\\'s residents. Any investments should be carefully considered to avoid degrading the natural values, but with good planning, they could be implemented.
4 / 14
Early childhood education should be free for everyone.
The part of early childhood education that is not mandated by law can, in my opinion, be subject to fees. However, the amount of the fee should take into account the family\\\'s ability to pay and support those with less means.
5 / 14
Schools should prioritize traditional textbooks over digital learning materials.
There may be reasons to return to printed books in certain situations, but digital learning materials will certainly remain because they can sometimes work better and be more economically advantageous. It is important to listen to the experts, teachers, and researchers in this matter.
6 / 14
One of the municipality’s most important tasks is to invest in sports facilities and opportunities for exercise and recreation.
For the well-being of the residents, good facilities are needed. The more we can encourage people to exercise, the more healthcare costs will decrease and the quality of life for the residents will improve.
7 / 14
It is important to provide all residents with equal opportunities for cultural activities.
Cultural experiences create quality of life and social interaction. It can still be challenging to achieve an equivalent offering. But having it as a goal is good.
8 / 14
The municipality should introduce or improve opportunities for residents to influence how municipal funds are used through participatory budgeting.
Projects funded by the municipality but decided upon by the citizens open up opportunities to give citizens a greater sense of involvement.
9 / 14
The municipality should invest in public transportation.
A well-functioning public transport system requires a large population. For public transport to function optimally, it should be frequent enough, which is expensive with few passengers. The Vippari system can certainly be further developed. Likewise, I believe it is important to have public transport for all train and flight departures.
10 / 14
It should be possible to be a resident in more than one municipality, for example, through digital municipal citizenship.
11 / 14
The municipality should better facilitate the expansion of renewable energy, such as solar and wind power.
Yes, provided that natural and environmental values are sufficiently considered. It is important that the municipality also receives sufficient income from the activities and that there are guarantees on how a closure is handled so that decaying parks do not remain in nature.
12 / 14
The municipality should mix more housing types in planning than is currently the case.
To avoid \"ghettos\" as a result of immigration and to facilitate integration, this should be considered in planning.
13 / 14
The municipality should introduce anonymous recruitment.
14 / 14
If you could give a superpower to your future political leader, what would it be?
Climate warming is the greatest threat to the world right now. Even though we have terrible wars, continued climate warming will cause more long-term damage to the entire planet.