Criticism over survey neglecting private enterprise

Skafti Harðarson, a local councilor in Seltjarnarnes and chairman of the Taxpayers Association, has raised concerns about a survey conducted by the Association of Icelandic Municipalities (SÍS). The survey, intended for local government representatives nationwide, seeks to gauge attitudes and priorities to shape the association's future policies.

Harðarson criticizes the survey's underlying assumptions, stating that it appears to presume that municipalities or the state should be responsible for nearly all sectors. He argues that the survey leaves no room for private enterprise or the utilization of free market forces, which could potentially offer better value to the public.

The survey is designed to inform the SÍS's strategy for the next four years and its long-term vision up to 2050. Harðarson's comments suggest a disagreement over the role of public versus private sectors in municipal services and development.