Prešov is the city where I live and a place I genuinely care about. I am standing for election in the Solivar – Šváby – Soľná Baňa electoral district because I want to help ensure that decisions are made professionally, transparently and with residents' needs in mind. I believe in decisions based on expertise, data and a long-term vision.

Throughout my professional career, I have worked in science and research, focusing on technical solutions, project development, modelling, data analysis and the development of innovative technologies. I firmly believe that experience gained in research has an important role to play in public administration. Our city needs decisions based on facts, not impressions.

Why I Am Standing for Election

Practical Solutions Instead of Empty Promises

My candidacy is not built on grand promises, but on practical steps that can gradually improve everyday life in our area. I believe in hard work, expert-driven solutions and open communication with residents. I want to be a councillor who listens to people, puts forward concrete proposals and advocates for decisions that bring long-term benefits to the city.

I believe that even smaller improvements – a repaired pavement, a safer junction or a revitalized public space – can make a significant difference.

A Modern Prešov for Future Generations

Solivar, Šváby and Soľná Baňa deserve more attention, greater investment and a clear vision for the future. My goal is a modern, green and innovative Prešov that manages its resources efficiently, supports sustainable development and provides a high quality of life for current and future generations. I want to represent the people of these neighborhoods and help make them even better places to live.

A Strong Community Deserves a New Vision

Some parts of our city have a rich history but are still waiting for a new sense of direction. For me, Solivar, Šváby and Soľná Baňa are exactly such places. This is an area with a unique historical heritage, alongside residential neighborhoods where thousands of people live today and deserve a better, more modern environment.

Safe Streets and High-Quality Public Spaces

Walking through this part of Prešov, you can see what works well – but also what needs to change. I have long recognized the need to improve roads and pavements, many of which are worn out and no longer provide safe access, particularly for senior citizens and parents with pushchairs. Public spaces, benches and children's playgrounds also need more systematic maintenance and renewal.

Safer, Smoother Traffic

One of the biggest transport challenges in the area is the junction of Solivarská, Švábska and Arm. Gen. Svobodu streets, which has long caused difficulties for both drivers and public transport passengers. A recent traffic light failure highlighted how vulnerable this junction is and how significantly it affects traffic throughout this part of the city.

That is why I see converting the junction into a modern roundabout as a realistic and necessary solution. It could improve road safety, ensure smoother traffic flow and reduce the risk of collisions at this busy intersection. This proposal has already been discussed publicly and has the potential to make a significant difference to everyday life for residents of Šváby, Solivar and Soľná Baňa.

Bringing Historical Heritage into Everyday City Life

Solivar is also a unique part of Prešov thanks to its historic saltworks complex, which includes a salt mining museum. This heritage site has enormous potential – not only as a tourist attraction, but also as a vibrant space for culture, events and community gatherings. My vision is to strengthen its connection with the city and local community, making it not just a destination for visitors, but a natural part of everyday life for residents.

Addressing Problems Before They Become Crises

At the same time, we must not ignore a serious issue affecting Solivar – brine leaking from old mining boreholes. This is a long-standing problem with real consequences for the environment and public safety. The leaking brine contaminates soil, threatens groundwater and contributes to gradual ground subsidence, while experts have also warned of the risk of sinkholes and ground collapse.

That is why I believe it is essential to actively press the national government and responsible authorities to address this issue systematically – from securing and remediating old boreholes to monitoring the affected area and clearly establishing responsibility. The city must also have a plan in place to protect residents and the surrounding area.

A Better Residential Environment for Every Generation

We must also remember Soľná Baňa as a residential neighborhood with its own specific needs – including access to services, improvements to the areas surrounding apartment buildings and safe spaces for children and families.

More Green Spaces for a Healthier City

Green spaces and environmental quality are another important priority. Solivar, Šváby and Soľná Baňa benefit from beautiful natural surroundings that deserve both protection and further development. I see opportunities to plant more trees and greenery, revitalize residential courtyards and create pleasant recreational areas for families, children and senior citizens.

Turning Waste into Energy Instead of Missing Opportunities

I also consider energy, waste management and renewable energy sources to be extremely important. I have long worked on the efficient recovery of biowaste and the use of modern technologies to produce electricity, heat and biomethane. I have professional expertise in this field and believe Prešov could make much better use of its potential.

Biowaste does not have to be waste – it can become a valuable source of energy. I want to support solutions that enable the efficient recovery of biodegradable waste, reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill and allow energy generated from biowaste to be used for the city's needs. Such solutions could help lower energy costs, increase the city's energy self-sufficiency and improve environmental protection.

Community Makes a Neighborhood Feel Like Home

I also want to support a stronger sense of community. I would like to see more places where people can come together – small community spaces, cultural events and activities for children and young people. These are the things that bring neighborhoods to life.

"I would greatly value your trust in the elections and the opportunity to work for Solivar, Šváby, Soľná Baňa and the whole of Prešov. I will do everything I can to use my experience and responsible approach to help make our city an even better place to live."

Radoslav Kreheľ

Candidate for the Prešov City Council

Electoral District No. 5 – Solivar • Šváby • Soľná Baňa