Riga, Oct 7 (LETA) - Riga's contributions to the Local Government Equalization Fund have been reduced by EUR 1.5 million, Riga Mayor Viesturs Kleinbergs (Progressives) said at a press conference today, reporting on the achievements of the first 100 days of the office.

With the changes, Riga will contribute EUR 137 million to the Local Government Equalization Fund.

Kleinbergs pointed out that until now the capital's contributions to the fund had been increasing year after year, but this time it will have to pay less.

However, Vice Mayor Vilnis Kirsis (New Unity) noted that there had been no changes in the calculation of the contributions. The amounts to be contributed are calculated according to a certain formula and it is likely that there have been some changes - in the number of pupils, the declared population or in other areas - that have led to the lower amount to be contributed by Riga.

Kleinbergs pointed out that an agreement had been reached with the Finance Ministry on taking a loan for the reconstruction of Vansu Bridge. The evaluation of the submitted bids is currently underway, but construction could take place in 2027 and 2028.

As reported, the bidders are offering to rebuild the Vans Bridge for around EUR 70 million, according to information published in the Electronic Procurement System.