Кмет Cast: 30 години в 30 минути

Prof. Dr Eng. Hristo Hristov, Mayor of Shumen Municipality, was the guest of the sixth episode of Mayor Cast – the joint podcast series of the National Association of Municipalities in the Republic of Bulgaria (NAMRB) and the Bulgarian National Radio (BNR), dedicated to the 30th anniversary of the Association.

During the conversation, Prof. Hristov described NAMRB as a key partner of local government and the natural unifying platform for municipalities in Bulgaria.

“This is the institution that brings together and consolidates the views, priorities and proposals of local authorities from across the country. Through in-depth discussions and exchanges of experience among municipalities, NAMRB develops common positions on issues that are central to the day-to-day agenda of local government and advocates for them before national institutions,” the Mayor of Shumen emphasised.

Asked why he actively participates in nearly all meetings of the Association’s Managing Board and Control Board despite the distance between Shumen and Sofia, Prof. Hristov highlighted the tangible value and purpose of NAMRB’s work.

“It is an opportunity to learn from colleagues with extensive management experience. Many of the challenges we face are similar, and the exchange of solutions and good practices is extremely valuable. My participation in the meetings allows me not only to stay informed and engaged in decision-making processes, but also to actively defend the interests of the citizens of Shumen and contribute to shaping the Association’s common policies,” he said.

The discussion also touched upon NAMRB’s regular meetings with representatives of national institutions. As an example, the Mayor referred to the most recent working meeting with the Ministry of Interior, during which participants discussed mechanisms for financing and implementing infrastructure projects, measures for disaster prevention and emergency response, and initiatives to improve road safety.

Particular emphasis was placed on the need for fiscal decentralisation. According to Prof. Hristov, municipalities are closest to citizens’ everyday concerns and should therefore have greater financial autonomy, enabling them to respond more quickly and effectively to the needs of local communities.

The Mayor also presented the development of Shumen Municipality as an example of successful local policy. He pointed out that the city’s industrial zone, established through a public-private partnership, has created jobs and contributed to sustainable economic growth. An increasing number of internationally active companies are choosing Shumen as an investment destination thanks to its favourable business environment and the proactive support provided by the local administration.

How are municipalities addressing workforce challenges, the shortage of qualified professionals and the growing demand for expertise in the labour market? How can a municipal administration listen to the voices of young people, and what does a “Department of the Future” look like? The answers to these and many other questions can be found in the sixth episode of Mayor Cast.

NAMRB would like to thank all mayors and their teams who contributed to the production of the series and made “Mayor Cast: 30 Years in 30 Minutes” possible.

Special thanks also go to the team of the Bulgarian National Radio’s Digital Programmes Directorate:

Author: Veselina Milanova
Camera Operator: Kristian Bozov
Editing: Mihail Mihov
Producers: Violeta Ashikova, Zlatko Zhelev
Executive Producer: Ivo Todorov

Watch the full podcast here.