| Name: | Thomas Selenius |
| Year of birth: | 1980 |
| Municipality: |
Helsinki |
| Email: | thomas.selenius@gmail.com |
Thomas
Selenius
Helsinki
"Old Helsinki was designed to be beautiful, functional and comfortable. Why not strive for the same today?"
I am an entrepreneur, property manager and CEO specialising in historic properties in Helsinki, Vantaa and Raasepori.
I live with my family in Katajanokka in Helsinki and have one child so far. I grew up in Espoo and Prästkulla in Tammisaari, where I still spend all my summers (and sometimes in Närpiö).
I have been active in various social organisations and associations, such as the student organisation Nylands Nation, the Helsinki Merchant's Guild (Handelsgillet i Helsingfors) and the Support Association for Västankvarn Schools (Understödsföreningen för Västankvarn Skolor).
My interests and what occupies most of my time are my family, the summer cottage and the associations.
Important political topics
Housing and Construction
People thrive and are healthier in a city and in houses with more vibrant architecture, where cultural heritage is preserved. In Helsinki today, however, people are financially penalised for owning and maintaining historic buildings. It is easier and cheaper to get permission to build and own colourful boxes without character, which are proven to be bad for our well-being and mental health, than it is to build beautifully and restore old. To remedy this situation, I propose that Helsinki starts encouraging classical architecture and restoring of old buildings in the building permit process, and reward the restoration of old buildings by, for example, halving or completely abolishing the property tax on historic buildings.
Economy & Business
Economic and environmental interests can go hand in hand, even in urban planning. Too often, planning and decisions are driven by one or the other, and the car-free city centre is a prime example.
By moving traffic and parking underground as much as possible, amenity, air quality and the cityscape are improved without compromising competitiveness. Trying to get rid of traffic for ideological reasons alone often has the opposite effect, leading to poorer air quality, congestion and reduced competitiveness.
Helsinki is a cold northern city, but tunnels and fixed structures in squares and streets are rejected. Allowing and encouraging glazed terraces on streets and fixed pavilions in squares and parks will not only increase use and enjoyment, but also the economy and attractiveness.
Children, Youth, and Families
In order to attract families to Helsinki, a cultural centre for children should be established in the centre. Establishing one in the Tulli ja pakkahuone building on Katajanokka would fill many needs with one deed. A historic and listed building that is falling into disrepair and costing the city money would be put to good use. A Tove Jansson-inspired museum next to Tove Jansson Park would be a natural part of the centre. Ferries, hotels and public transport are all within walking distance. With its proximity to the city centre districts and the developing waterfront, including the Museum of Architecture and Design, the children's cultural centre would complement the whole and significantly increase the city's attractiveness.