Ostrava coalition formed by ANO, Starostové pro Ostravu, and Ostravak

The ANO movement, Starostové pro Ostravu, and Ostravak have reached an agreement to form a governing coalition in Ostrava. The three groups, which all currently hold seats in the city leadership, intend to sign a formal coalition agreement by Friday.

Richard Vereš, leader of the ANO movement in Ostrava, is set to become the mayor. Aleš Boháč, leader of Starostové pro Ostravu, is slated to serve as his first deputy, focusing on environmental issues. The coalition will hold 37 of the 45 seats in the city assembly. In the 11-member city council, ANO will hold five seats, Starostové pro Ostravu will hold four, and Ostravak will hold two.

The coalition's stated priorities include improving city efficiency, reducing the number of council members, seeking internal savings, addressing housing issues, and supporting the development of the Ostrava Municipal Hospital. They also aim to complete major projects such as a new football stadium and a concert hall. Vereš expressed interest in negotiating with the Ministry of Health regarding the potential transfer of the municipal hospital to state control to facilitate its upgrade to a university hospital.