TULUNGAGUNG – The Tulungagung Regional Council (DPRD) has pledged to monitor and follow up on a series of demands submitted by the People’s Aspiration Struggle Alliance Movement (Gempar), including efforts to boost local revenue, improve public street lighting, and resolve agrarian disputes.
Council leaders said the issues raised by protesters directly affect public services and local governance. As a result, lawmakers plan to push for concrete measures to address long-standing concerns.
DPRD Speaker Marsono highlighted the region’s untapped potential in generating revenue from the Public Street Lighting Tax (PPJ). According to him, the sector could contribute more to local income if authorities improve data management and strengthen coordination with relevant institutions.
“One area where local revenue remains below potential is street lighting and the public street lighting tax. The tax comes from electricity users, including households and businesses,” Marsono said.
To improve revenue collection, the council plans to coordinate with the state electricity company, PLN. The initiative aims to validate and synchronize electricity customer data across different user categories.
Lawmakers believe accurate records will help local authorities identify revenue opportunities and prevent discrepancies in tax collection.
“We will invite PLN for data synchronization. Validation of household users, business customers, and non-PLN electricity users must take place as soon as possible so the region can maximize its revenue potential,” he explained.
Beyond revenue issues, the council also addressed concerns about malfunctioning street lights in several parts of Tulungagung.
Marsono said reliable street lighting serves a broader purpose than supporting local revenue. Proper lighting also improves public safety and increases comfort for residents who travel at night.
During the hearing, lawmakers also responded to criticism regarding the performance of the regional inspectorate and the competency of government internal auditors.
Marsono stressed that stronger oversight requires qualified personnel. He said local authorities should continue improving the skills and professional certifications of auditors responsible for monitoring government activities.
Environmental governance also emerged as a key topic during discussions.
The council urged the Environmental Agency (DLH) to maintain objectivity when issuing permit recommendations, particularly for businesses that manage industrial waste. Officials want to ensure commercial activities do not harm local communities or the environment.
Lawmakers also reaffirmed their commitment to overseeing agrarian reform efforts and land distribution programs for small-scale farmers.
Marsono said the council would continue supporting the process if local-level negotiations face obstacles. He added that lawmakers are prepared to seek assistance from national ministries and other government institutions when necessary.
“If needed, we will coordinate with ministries and relevant state agencies so these issues do not remain unresolved,” he said.
The council’s commitment comes amid growing public pressure for better governance, stronger accountability, and faster progress on land reform in Tulungagung.