SIA “Rīgas nami” board member Mārcis Budļevskis has announced his resignation, citing a persistent lack of strategic decision-making within the Riga municipality that hinders the company’s development. His departure follows the resignation of the company’s supervisory board—Andris Liepiņš and Ilze Bukulde—effective June 30, amid a crisis involving the closure of the Riga Central Market’s Meat Pavilion.
Why the board is stepping down
Mārcis Budļevskis, who manages real estate, development projects, and technical maintenance at the company, stated that the current cooperation model with the municipality makes it impossible to effectively lead development projects or take responsibility for results. He pointed to a lack of strategic decisions as the primary cause for this impasse. Despite these leadership changes, Budļevskis will remain in his position until July 31, 2026, to ensure operational continuity and the transition of ongoing processes.
The impact of the Meat Pavilion closure
The leadership crisis coincides with the suspension of operations at the Riga Central Market’s Meat Pavilion. The State Construction Control Bureau (BVKB) prohibited further use of the facility starting June 11, determining the structure no longer met safety requirements. In response, Riga City Council chairman Viesturs Kleinbergs has tasked the Riga Executive Director, Mr. Lange, with investigating the management actions taken by “Rīgas nami” regarding the pavilion’s condition.
Did You Know? Despite the leadership turmoil, “Rīgas nami” reported a 2025 turnover of 28,42 million euros, an increase from the previous year, and concluded the fiscal year with a 94 000 euro profit.
What happens next
A Riga City Council extraordinary meeting is scheduled for today at 16:30 to evaluate the operations of “Rīgas nami.” Regarding the displaced meat vendors, the company has already secured alternative tilling spaces in other pavilions. Plans are currently in place to relocate these traders to the former Vegetable Pavilion starting next year. This transition will require significant renovations, including upgrades to flooring, communications, and refrigeration systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Meat Pavilion closed?
The State Construction Control Bureau (BVKB) banned the pavilion’s use from June 11 because the building no longer meets safety standards.
When will the board members leave their posts?
The supervisory board (Andris Liepiņš and Ilze Bukulde) resigned effective June 30, while board member Mārcis Budļevskis will stay until July 31, 2026, to facilitate the transition.
What is happening to the meat traders?
Traders have been moved to other pavilions for now, with plans to permanently relocate them to the former Vegetable Pavilion next year following necessary technical renovations.
