Minister of Defense Hanno Pevkur announced Thursday that municipalities will begin to receive increased compensation for the defense forces’ training areas, specifically the Soodla exercise area. During a government press briefing, Pevkur stated that the Soodla exercise area, initiated by a government decision in 2015, is undergoing a public assessment of its northern and southern shores. This assessment has revealed the existing design, which is now accessible for public scrutiny. The 36.8 square kilometer exercise area, along with a 19.2 square kilometer buffer zone, is utilized by the Estonian defense forces. Unlike the Nursipalu exercise area, Soodla does not directly impact any residential properties, though approximately 400 people reside in the surrounding area. Pevkur emphasized the necessity of these training areas for the military’s capabilities and confirmed discussions regarding increased compensation occurred during coalition talks. He intends to secure a government-level regulation to increase payments to municipalities, allowing them to determine how to allocate the funds, potentially for local community projects. Pevkur directed authorities to prioritize this compensation increase. Topics: #pevkur #municipalities #receive Post navigation The capital has launched an asphalt plant and started summer road repairs Kristina Kallas: streaming platforms should be taxed!