With the support of the project "Proactive Citizens - PRAGG", the Citizens' Association "Micro Network" from Gradiška officially submitted an initiative requesting exemption from payment or a significant reduction in the costs of a building permit for citizens building their first property. The initiative, together with more than 500 signatures of support from citizens, was submitted to the Mayor of Gradiška and the President of the City Assembly. This transformed the months-long activities of the "Micro Network" Association into a concrete request to local institutions.

The initiative was launched in order to provide young couples, families and other citizens who are solving their housing issues for the first time with more concrete support from the local community. In addition to the high prices of construction materials and works, the costs of administrative procedures and obtaining the necessary documentation represent a significant burden. According to the data used during the preparation of the initiative, fees associated with issuing a building permit in some city areas can amount to up to 9,000 KM, while in other areas they range between 5,000 and 7,000 KM. Additional costs may also arise from converting agricultural land into construction land, which is particularly important for residents of rural local communities.

Over the past four months, "Mikro mreža" has organized a Citizens' Forum, talked to citizens, civil society organizations and other interested stakeholders, and conducted a signature collection campaign. More than 500 signatures show that there is clear public interest in introducing this type of support.

"This measure would cost the budget of the City of Gradiška only 0.3 percent, while its effect for young families and citizens would be enormous. This is a strong incentive for young people to stay and solve the housing issue, with minimal impact on the city budget," said Bojan Trgić, president of the Citizens' Association "Mikro mreža" at the previously held Citizens' Forum.

By introducing this relief, the City of Gradiška could help citizens who are building a family home for the first time, encourage young people and families to stay, contribute to legal and planned construction, and send a clear message that it recognizes housing as an important development and demographic issue.

After the official submission of the initiative, its consideration and obtaining the opinion of the relevant city departments will follow. The "Mikro mreža" association will continue to monitor the actions of the authorities, advocate for discussions with representatives of the City Administration and the City Assembly, and inform the public about the next steps.

The ultimate goal is to prepare and adopt a decision that would exempt citizens who build their first property from paying or significantly reduce the cost of a building permit.

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