Mendillorri Residents Demand Solutions: Football Field Dispute & Local Issues

A dispute over field management is threatening to sideline approximately 50 adolescent football players, aged 13 to 18, from their club in Mendillorri. The core of the issue, as presented at a recent neighborhood forum, centres on the management of shared playing fields between the Mendillorri and Lezkairu clubs.

Field Access and Future Planning

Beatriz Brasero Rosco, president of the Mendillorri club, explained that the Lezkairu club has assumed management of the shared facility. “They have 24 teams, we have 10. We are going to disappear,” she stated. Txema Mauleón, the Mendillorri councilor (Contigo Zurekin), acknowledged the validity of Brasero Rosco’s concerns. While a future sports zone near the Lezkairu field is envisioned as a potential solution, Mauleón admitted, “We have neither budget nor planning” for its immediate development.

Did You Know? The dispute directly impacts between 50 and 100 adolescent football players, ranging in age from 13 to 18 years old.

Library Access Concerns

Beyond the sports field issue, the forum also addressed concerns regarding the operating hours of the public library located within the Civivox center. Current hours are 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM in the winter and 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM in the summer. A resident criticized this schedule, stating it “suits the officials, not the needs of the neighbors.” Accessibility was also raised, with residents noting that the nearest alternative libraries require a lengthy commute involving multiple bus transfers.

Potential Solutions and Obstacles

Councilor Mauleón indicated that expanding library staff to accommodate extended hours is proving difficult. Residents suggested implementing a system similar to that used at the Public University of Navarre (UPNA), utilizing a card-access system. This would potentially reduce staffing needs while maintaining security.

Expert Insight: The library access issue highlights a common challenge for public services: balancing operational constraints with community needs. The proposed card-access system represents a potential compromise, but its feasibility depends on overcoming logistical and security considerations.

Palacio de Mendillorri and Community Initiatives

Discussions also revisited the Palacio de Mendillorri, with Councilor Mauleón announcing renewed talks with the Government of Navarra regarding the transfer of management from its public company, Nasuvinsa. The intention is to transform the building into a neighborhood hub and community space. A newly formed collective, Mendizar, received applause for its focus on recognising the active role of senior citizens within the community. The group can be reached at [email protected].

Future Projects

Several future projects were outlined, including a pedestrian connection between Mendillorri and Lezkairu, renovations to sports facilities, and improvements to public spaces. Specific plans include replacing playground equipment, enhancing lighting along the Tantangorri Park path, planting 65 new trees, and completing a study to improve the lake’s appearance. Street and sidewalk improvements are also planned for various locations within the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary cause of the dispute regarding the football fields?

The dispute stems from the Lezkairu club assuming management of the shared playing fields, leading to concerns that the Mendillorri club will be unable to secure adequate field time for its 10 teams, compared to Lezkairu’s 24 teams.

What are the current operating hours of the Civivox public library?

The library is open from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM during the winter months and from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM during the summer.

What is the proposed plan for the Palacio de Mendillorri?

The intention is to transfer management of the Palacio de Mendillorri from Nasuvinsa to the local government, converting it into a neighborhood hub and community space.

How might community involvement shape the future of local sports and public services in Mendillorri?