Key Facts
• June 13, 2025: Gunma Governor Ichita Yamamoto addressed the Prefectural Hall’s abolition.
• Prefectural Hall, located in Maebashi City, deemed to have “fulfilled its role.”
• Supplemental budget, including area utilization survey costs, approved by the prefectural assembly.
• Opposition from two political groups, including the Communist Party, called for continued debate.
• Governor Yamamoto criticized opposition, citing lack of support outside Maebashi.
• Over ¥5 billion in taxpayer funds deemed unjustifiable for the hall’s maintenance.
• Governor highlighted investments in Maebashi, including a 1.5 km revitalization project near JR Maebashi Station.
• Criticized suggestions to retain the hall as a trade-off for G Messe Gunma in Takasaki City.
• New Vice Governor Yasuhiro Otsuka, approved on June 13, praised for digital expertise and international experience.
Summary
Gunma Governor Ichita Yamamoto defended the decision to abolish the Prefectural Hall in Maebashi, citing its completed role as a cultural hub. Despite opposition from two political groups, the prefectural assembly approved a supplemental budget for area utilization surveys. Yamamoto emphasized that opposition voices were limited to Maebashi and argued that maintaining the hall with over ¥5 billion in taxpayer funds was unjustifiable. Highlighting significant investments in Maebashi, including a 1.5 km revitalization project, he refuted claims that the hall should remain as a trade-off for G Messe Gunma in Takasaki. Additionally, the appointment of Yasuhiro Otsuka as Vice Governor was approved, with Yamamoto praising his digital and international expertise.
