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City Councils’ Function More Symbolic Than Substantive

City Councils’ Function More Symbolic Than Substantive
City Councils’ Function More Symbolic Than Substantive

The function of city councils has been more symbolic than of practical significance, says the head of Tehran City Council, who believes that city management bodies should be downsized to streamline the system. 
"The status of the council is more symbolic than I imagined. I expected that I would be able to address the city's problems with greater speed and energy, but, unfortunately, there are certain cultural and organizational issues that cause a huge amount of a person's energy, time and motivation to go to waste," Mohsen Hashemi said in an interview with ISNA published on Sunday, which is celebrated as National Councils Day.  
"For instance, despite extensive follow-ups to launch a project to build up the subway network during the current term, there has been no leap in the activities of the company concerned, and the necessary funds and support have not been provided for the project, which is the city's main priority," he explained. 
The most recent city and village councils elections took place simultaneously with the presidential election in May 2017. Hashemi said the main challenges facing the council are related to its interaction with key organizations involved in the city's management, economic woes and foreign currency issues, which have made it difficult to supply the equipment required to enhance the subway experience for citizens. 
 

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