Wiktoria was one of the facilitators of a meeting dedicated to the care of houseplants. During the workshop, participants learned about proper watering, suitable soil selection, and the importance of adequate sunlight for plants. The educational meeting concluded with a quiz that tested the knowledge gained during the event.

The first day of the trip was dedicated to integration activities and team-building games that helped build relationships and teamwork. The second day focused on learning and development. Participants took part in workshops on writing official letters and documents, gaining practical knowledge useful for their future work in the Youth City Council.

The trip combined integration, education, and joint planning of future activities for the council.
 

The planned investment is intended to improve the transport system in this part of the city. The extension of Chrzanowskiego Street is expected to streamline traffic and make access to nearby areas easier. The project may also help reduce congestion on some local roads.

The opinions collected during the consultations will be analyzed by the city authorities. They will help in making further decisions regarding the implementation of the planned project.

https://konsultacje.um.ostrowiec.pl/konsultacje/konsultacja/konsultacje-spoleczne-dotyczace-zadania-pn-budowa-przedluzenia-ul-chrzanowskiego-od

The stand attracted a lot of interest, especially among the youngest participants. At the end of the event, members of the Youth City Council watched the traditional “Light to the Sky” together with the Mayor of the City, Artur Łakomiec. The organizers thanked everyone who visited the stand and supported this year’s WOŚP finale.

The meeting was also an opportunity to talk about literature and meet people who share a similar passion for poetry. The event created a space for the free exchange of thoughts, emotions, and artistic inspiration. The Youth Poetry Evening was organized on the initiative of the Youth City Council.

Applications to participate in the program are open until January 8, 2026. Participants will gain reliable knowledge about climate change and ways to adapt to it, as well as receive a set of educational materials. The program also includes a certificate of participation and catering during the meetings.

Residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, teachers, students, local leaders, and anyone interested in climate and environmental protection are invited to participate. The initiative is implemented as part of a project aimed at improving energy efficiency in public primary school and kindergarten buildings in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, co-financed by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan.

During the session, the council’s presidium was also elected. Marcel Langner was chosen as the Chairperson, while Maja Rafalska and Klaudia Pająk became Vice-Chairpersons.

At the beginning of the term, the young councillors received the “Manifesto of Young Residents of Ostrowiec” from the Mayor and the Chairperson of the previous term. The document is intended to serve as an important reference point for the actions undertaken by the new council.

The session of the commission — composed of Beata Duda, Head of the Department of Civil Affairs; Jan Bernard Malinowski, Head of the Department of Education and Social Affairs; and Magdalena Połetek from the Legal and Organizational Department of the City Hall — was chaired by Tomasz Gębka, Deputy Head of the Department of Planning and Development. The elections were conducted without objections, and young residents of Ostrowiec cast a total of 1,117 valid votes.

A total of 23 young people qualified for the Youth City Council — seven of them are primary school students. The new Council is as follows (listed in order of the number of votes received):

Marcel Langner
Zofia Walczak
Stanisław Lipka
Zuzanna Krawczyńska
Aleksandra Zioło
Maja Rafalska
Mateusz Jurasz
Klaudia Kosmala
Maja Kądziela
Klaudia Pająk
Anna Zajączkowska
Marcel Ciździel
Wiktoria Przepiórka
Zofia Ptasińska
Maja Sobańska
Ksawery Dukielski
Natalia Długosz
Maja Wysocka
Nadia Bocheńska
Zuzanna Dzik
Julia Kaczmarska
Weronika Kamińska
Krzysztof Trzaskowski
The reserve list includes: Karol Domagalski, Martyna Misiurska, Ada Mikos, Maksymilian Poziomek, Nela Łakomiec, Zofia Dublasiewicz, Maja Dębicka, Małgorzata Mazur, Natalia Baran, Aleksander Kurek, Kornelia Bochniak, Gabrysia Leśniak, Adam Tracz, Zuzanna Skwara, Roksana Wyżykowska, Lena Rej, and Kornel Leśniak.

Detailed voting results are available at:
https://mrm.um.ostrowiec.pl/wyniki

The Youth City Council of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski was established by Resolution No. LXXVIII/55/2023 of the City Council on 29 May 2023, and its first session took place on 7 December 2023. At that time, 23 young councillors took their oath of office and elected their leadership: Armando Malesza became Chairperson, while Aleksandra Kwapisz and Angela Mozal were elected Vice-Chairpersons. Despite personnel changes during the term, the Council maintained a high level of activity — holding a total of 10 sessions and adopting 35 resolutions, including this final one, which was especially meaningful as it summarized their entire period of work.

Participation in the survey is anonymous, and all responses will be analyzed in aggregate form, without any connection to specific individuals.

Your voice matters!
Completing the questionnaire takes only a few minutes, yet it can significantly contribute to decisions that will shape the future of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski for many years.

Don’t wait — take part in creating a strategy that is being developed for you and thanks to you!

Click here to complete the survey

or copy this link into your browser:
https://www.badania-ipc.pl/poll/index.php/376311/lang-pl

Voting for the second term of the Youth City Council is currently underway. A total of 40 students declared their willingness to serve — 21 from secondary schools and 19 from primary schools, with eight candidates seeking re-election. During the event at the Ostrowiec Culture Brewery, attendees had the opportunity to hear the young candidates’ proposals and the arguments they presented to encourage others to vote for them. All candidates emphasized that they want to work for the benefit of the city and its residents, especially their peers.

Voting began on 27 October and will continue until 12 November (via the website https://mrm.um.ostrowiec.pl/

Starting today (Monday, 27 October), young people aged 13 to 19 who study and live in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski can choose the candidates who will co-decide on important matters affecting the local community. As many as 40 candidates have applied for the second term of the Youth City Council, which demonstrates a high level of engagement among young people in the life of the city. Among them are 21 students from secondary schools and 19 from primary schools. The largest groups of candidates come from High School No. I (7 candidates) and High School No. II as well as Primary School No. 1 – each represented by 5 candidates. Eight candidates are seeking re-election.

Any student living in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski (including residents of the Student Dormitory) who is at least 13 years old and not yet 19 can take part in the vote, which is conducted online via the website:
???? https://mrm.um.ostrowiec.pl/

The aim of the workshops is to develop entrepreneurial attitudes among young residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski and to provide them with basic knowledge of entrepreneurship. The sessions are also designed to support students in making future educational and career choices.

The workshops conclude with a study visit to local entrepreneurs operating at the Center for Entrepreneurship and Career Activation at 26A Sandomierska Street.

During the classes, participants prepare Mini Business Plans – creative ideas for running a business in the city. The best projects will be presented next year during a formal final gala.
We’re keeping our fingers crossed for all participants!

#YouthCityCouncil #OstrowiecŚwiętokrzyski #Youth #JustDance #SilentDisco #Fun #Dance #WeTakeAction
Artur Łakomiec – Mayor of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski
Municipal Cultural Center in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski

#YouthCityCouncil #OstrowiecŚwiętokrzyski #Youth #BoardGames #Fun #Community #WeTakeAction
Artur Łakomiec – Mayor of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski
Municipal Cultural Center in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski

#YouthCityCouncil #OstrowiecŚwiętokrzyski #Youth #MafiaNight #Fun #Community #WeTakeAction
Artur Łakomiec – Mayor of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski
Municipal Cultural Center in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski

#YouthCityCouncil #OstrowiecŚwiętokrzyski #Youth #OutdoorCinema #Fun #MovieNight #WeTakeAction
Artur Łakomiec – Mayor of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski
Municipal Cultural Center in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski

#YouthCityCouncil #OstrowiecŚwiętokrzyski #Youth #Sport #BeachVolleyball #Fun #WeTakeAction
Artur Łakomiec – Mayor of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski
Municipal Cultural Center in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski

#YouthCityCouncil #OstrowiecŚwiętokrzyski #Youth #Fun #KaraokeNight #WeTakeAction
Artur Łakomiec – Mayor of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski
Municipal Cultural Center in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski

The event program includes both competition and entertainment parts.
Participants will have the opportunity to showcase their vocal skills in front of a jury and audience. After the competition, there will be open karaoke and shared fun with popular and well-loved songs.

 
BEACH VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT
July 12, 2025 (Saturday)

We invite you to take part in the 1st Ostrowiec Beach Volleyball Championships!
The tournament aims not only to foster healthy competition but, above all, to bring people together and promote fun and integration among local youth.

The event will take place on July 12, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM, at the GUTWIN Recreation Center.
Participants can look forward to prizes such as MRM-branded T-shirts, material prizes for 1st–3rd place, certificates, and small gifts for all teams.

Weather permitting, the event may conclude with a barbecue or bonfire.

 
MOVIE NIGHT – OUTDOOR CINEMA
July 26, 2025 (Saturday)

We invite you to an open-air movie night on July 26, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, in the courtyard of the Ostrowiec Culture Brewery.

Event schedule:

6:00 PM – Official opening and event briefing. We will also distribute themed items related to the films (details to be announced closer to the date). Two films are planned.
Viewers will have access to deckchairs, and those who prefer can bring their own blankets.
After the first film, there will be a 20–30 minute break to relax and discuss impressions with friends.
Screening of the second film.
The evening will conclude with a Kahoot quiz about the event and films shown.
The themed movie night will end at 10:00 PM.

 
MAFIA NIGHT
August 2, 2025 (Saturday)

The goal of this event is to bring participants together through a large-scale session of the game Mafia by Friz.
The main part of the evening will be based on special Mafia cards by Friz, used as the core of the game, along with additional custom challenges prepared by the organizers.

The meeting will begin with a welcome and explanation of the rules, followed by role drawing and gameplay.
The evening will also include group analysis sessions, voting rounds, and a final summary announcing the winners.

We want this event to remain open to everyone.
For those not participating in the Mafia game, there will be a separate board game and social area.

 
“BOARDING GAMES!” – BOARD GAME NIGHT
August 16, 2025 (Saturday)

The event titled “Boarding Games!” will take place in the multi-purpose hall and courtyard of the Ostrowiec Culture Brewery.

The space will be divided into two zones:

an indoor area – with tables for board games and catering,
an outdoor area – with deckchairs and blankets for relaxation between games.
Event schedule:

6:00 PM – Official opening.
The first 30 minutes will be devoted to introductions and presenting available games provided by “Kuferek z planszówkami”.
6:30–9:30 PM – Open gaming and integration.
10:00 PM – Official closing of the evening.
 
MUSIC NIGHT – JUST DANCE
August 28, 2025 (Thursday)

The music evening will take place in the courtyard of the Ostrowiec Culture Brewery.

Event schedule:

6:00 PM – Official opening and introduction.
Afterwards, we’ll begin the Just Dance session, projected on a large screen. Participants can dance solo, in pairs, or in groups, following the on-screen choreographies.
After about 1.5 hours, there will be a 20–30 minute break for participants to rest and share their impressions.
We’ll then continue dancing to more Just Dance tracks, with mini contests and movement-based games.
The dance evening will conclude at 10:00 PM.

This year, a total of PLN 1,222,222 has been allocated, with the maximum value of a single investment project set at PLN 488,888, and a non-investment project at PLN 122,222. Submissions will be accepted until May 19th, 2025.

“I encourage all residents to actively participate in the Participatory Budget process – both by submitting ideas and by voting for projects that can bring tangible benefits to the entire community of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski,”
emphasized the Mayor of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski.
The Participatory Budget is not only a tool for development, but also a way to foster an engaged and empowered civic society. All details regarding the rules, forms, and timeline can be found on the official website: boos.um.ostrowiec.pl.

Additional information is available at the Department of Planning and Development of the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski City Hall, ul. Jana Głogowskiego 3/5, rooms 106 and 101, or by phone at +48 41 267 22 00.

Why is it worth getting involved?
Because bike sharing is an ecological and practical mode of transport, successfully operating in many cities. Thanks to modern technologies such as mobile apps, GPS tracking, and self-service stations, using the system is simple and user-friendly.

The city bike system, commonly known as "bike sharing," offers short- or long-term public access to bicycles at low usage costs. In many cities, such systems have become an integral part of urban mobility, promoting active transport and contributing to sustainable urban development. Experiences from bike-sharing implementations across Poland show their increasing relevance in addressing modern transportation challenges, such as reducing emissions and improving urban quality of life.

In Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, cycling infrastructure has been continuously developed. Over 61 km of bike lanes have already been built along municipal, district, voivodeship, and national roads, with another 17 km currently under construction or in planning.

Soon, with support from the European Funds for Eastern Poland and European Funds for Świętokrzyskie, we will:

Construct 26 covered bike shelters across the city, offering space for 770 bicycles, located near municipal primary schools, district secondary schools, the hospital, sports facilities, the municipal cemetery, the city hall, and the county office.
Develop seven cyclist service points in various parts of the city, equipped with charging stations for e-bikes and mobile phones, repair stands, resting areas, and benches.
Now it’s time for the next step — a municipal bike rental system. Together with the road infrastructure already built, and the ongoing projects involving shelters and service stations, we aim — with your input — to establish a solid foundation for promoting sustainable transportation.

To tailor the system to the needs of residents, we’ve prepared a survey with several questions related to the types of bikes you'd like to use, rental durations, pricing, and overall preferences.

We invite you to fill out the survey and help us create a better cycling environment in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski!
???? https://konsultacje.um.ostrowiec.pl
Consultations will run from March 26 to April 11, 2025.

These consultations are conducted via the Residents' Portal, created as part of the "Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNewed" project.

The Vice Chair of the Council, Angela Mozal, together with Youth Assembly member Antoni Chudzicki, led a workshop focused on social media. Participants had the opportunity not only to gain practical knowledge but also to create their own video content, further developing their digital communication skills.

The event was also a great opportunity to exchange experiences and establish new connections with socially engaged youth from across the region.

The meeting focused on key topics such as combating disinformation, ecological awareness, and the opportunities the European Union offers to young people.

The program included:

discussions with local decision-makers,
interviews with experts,
workshops led by volunteers from the “Rozprawy o Europie” Association (ROE) and members of the Youth Assembly of the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship.
The event was organized as part of the project "The European Union from A to Z – the new generation", implemented by the Rozprawy o Europie Association in cooperation with the Youth Assembly of the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship, and funded through the Erasmus+ programme.

For the young council members, it was a valuable opportunity to gain new knowledge, exchange views, and strengthen their civic engagement in line with European values.

More Funds, More Opportunities
For this year’s edition, the maximum funding limits for submitted projects are:
✅ 488,888 PLN – for a single investment project,
✅ 122,222 PLN – for a single non-investment project.

This allows residents to propose both large-scale infrastructure projects and smaller social, cultural, or educational initiatives.

BOOŚ 2026 Schedule – Key Dates
???? April 1 – May 19, 2025 – Project submission
Residents can submit their project proposals, which will then undergo an evaluation process.

???? May 20 – August 18, 2025 – Evaluation and review of submitted projects
During this period, projects will be assessed based on formal, substantive, and technical criteria. The results of this evaluation, including justifications, will be published. Applicants will have the opportunity to appeal negative decisions, and after the appeals process, a lottery will determine the order of projects on the voting list.

???? August 21 – September 15, 2025 – Voting
Residents will decide which projects will be implemented. In addition to online voting, there will be an option to vote at four designated polling stations.

???? By September 30, 2025 – Announcement of results
A list of winning projects will be published, which will then proceed to implementation.

How to Stay Updated on BOOŚ 2026 and Where to Ask Questions?
Detailed information about the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Citizens’ Budget can be found on www.boos.um.ostrowiec.pl.

Residents can also obtain information by calling 41 26 72 200, where they can reach Tomasz Gębka, Deputy Head of the Department of Planning and Development and the BOOŚ Coordinator. Questions can also be sent via email to boos@um.ostrowiec.pl.

Mayor Encourages Active Participation
– Today, we are announcing the new edition of the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Citizens’ Budget 2026 and encourage all residents to take an active part in it – says Mayor Artur Łakomiec. – Soon, we will also launch procurement procedures related to the implementation of last year’s winning projects.

The Citizens’ Budget is a great opportunity for residents to influence the development of their city and implement initiatives that matter most to them. Don’t wait – submit your project and shape the future of Ostrowiec!

Prezydent zachęca do aktywnego udziału
– Dziś mówimy o nowej edycji Budżetu Obywatelskiego Ostrowca Świętokrzyskiego 2026 i zachęcamy wszystkich mieszkańców do aktywnego udziału – mówi Prezydent Artur Łakomiec. – Niebawem ogłosimy także postępowania przetargowe związane z realizacją zwycięskich projektów z ubiegłego roku.

Budżet Obywatelski to realna szansa dla mieszkańców, by mieć wpływ na rozwój miasta i zrealizować inicjatywy, które są dla nich najważniejsze. Nie czekaj – zgłoś swój projekt i decyduj o przyszłości Ostrowca!

The members of the Youth City Council not only actively participated in the fundraising efforts but also prepared a special booth with activities for children. The youngest participants enjoyed face painting and balloon twisting, bringing smiles and joy to the event.

Additionally, Councilor Klaudia Pająk assisted in counting and verifying the funds collected by volunteers at the main headquarters, ensuring the smooth operation of the event.

– We are delighted to be part of WOŚP and support such an important initiative. See you next year! – summed up the young council members.

Thanks to the dedication and positive energy of all participants, this year’s WOŚP Grand Finale in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski was once again filled with smiles, joy, and an incredible sense of solidarity.

Speed Friending is a social gathering where participants will have the chance to talk with many people on pre-prepared topics within a set time limit. It’s a fantastic way to make new connections, improve communication skills, and open up to new relationships at the beginning of the year.

Attendees will also enjoy a delicious treat provided by Kawiarnia Na Słodką Nutę.

Don’t miss this special opportunity! Join the event and start the year by meeting inspiring people.

???? When? January 16, 2025, at 4:00 PM
???? Where? Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski
???? Organizer: Youth City Council of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski

The results of this collaboration will soon be available on social media. The organizers promise that the wishes will be filled with warmth and joy, encouraging everyone to follow their profiles so as not to miss this special moment. Christmas in Ostrowiec is shaping up to be truly extraordinary!

The "Ostra Karta" is a modern solution in the form of a mobile phone app, enabling residents not only to save money but also to access a wide range of services and promotional offers prepared in collaboration with local partners. Users of the program can enjoy discounts at sports facilities, cultural institutions, local shops, and service points.

The city continues to expand the program by establishing partnerships with new businesses and broadening the list of available discounts and services. This initiative aligns with the city’s strategy to improve the quality of life for its residents and promote local businesses.

If you haven't joined the "Ostra Karta" program yet, there's still time! The program is available to all residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, and signing up is quick and easy. The benefits are waiting – both in your wallet and in greater access to the city's offerings.

The conference, held at the Ministry's building on Wspólna Street, served as a platform for exchanging experiences and summarizing the results of the program supported by the Norwegian Funds. Key agenda points included presentations of best practices, discussions on future directions for cooperation, and reflections on the main challenges in implementing local projects.

Anna Woś, who took part in thematic panels, emphasized the importance of bilateral international cooperation, particularly in the context of supporting sustainable development in medium-sized cities. Tomasz Gębka participated in discussions on modernizing local infrastructure and tackling poverty. The meeting with representatives from Sogndal was an opportunity to exchange insights on local development strategies and innovative solutions in municipal management.

During the event, the importance of Polish-Norwegian cooperation was highlighted, with specific projects cited as examples of tangible benefits for local communities. The meeting concluded with a symbolic adoption of a declaration to continue the partnership in future editions of the program, followed by a formal dinner where participants strengthened relationships and explored further cooperation opportunities.

Through participation in such initiatives, Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski has the opportunity to draw on the best international practices, enhancing local initiatives and creating a foundation for even greater collaboration in the future.

The contest results were announced on the Youth City Council’s Instagram, and the awards ceremony took place in an unforgettable atmosphere. Ten winners received fantastic gift cards and vouchers, which are sure to bring them a lot of joy. The organizers congratulated all the laureates and expressed hope that the contest will remain a memorable experience for both participants and spectators.

The exceptional nature of the contest would not have been possible without the support of local partners and sponsors, who funded the prizes and helped organize the event. The organizers emphasized the importance of supporting local initiatives and businesses that create the unique character of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski.

This is not the end of the Youth City Council’s activities – they are already planning more exciting initiatives. Everyone interested can look forward to new events that will once again bring the city’s residents together and inspire them to engage. See you at the next projects!

As part of the competition, participants submitted photos and videos showcasing their spooky costumes or ways of celebrating Halloween in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. Entries were marked with the hashtags #StrachMaStyl and #OstrowiecNaHalloween2024. From numerous submissions, the jury selected ten of the most original and creative entries, awarding their creators with vouchers, gift cards, and other attractive prizes sponsored by local partners.

The contest not only provided entertainment for participants and spectators but also supported local initiatives and entrepreneurs. Organizers emphasized that the quality of submissions was exceptionally high, exceeding their expectations in terms of creativity and effort.

The Youth City Council has announced that the success of this year’s contest is just the beginning, with plans to make similar events a regular part of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski's calendar of attractions. The Halloween Contest demonstrated that the city knows how to celebrate and bring the community together in creative and inspiring ways.

The competition began at 10:00 AM and ended at 2:00 PM. After tallying the results, awards were presented to the top anglers who showcased their skills and passion for the sport. 

The event concluded with an integration barbecue, where participants had the opportunity to chat, share experiences, and enjoy a pleasant time together. The organizers have already announced plans for future editions of this successful event.

The project was positively evaluated, and the funds provided by the Foundation for the Center of Local Europe will allow the youth of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski to enhance their language skills and organize workshops that promise to be a creative and integrative learning experience.

“We are very grateful to the Foundation for the Center of Local Europe for the opportunity to collaborate and for supporting the implementation of our initiative,” emphasized the young councilors in their summary.

This is yet another initiative by the Youth City Council that showcases the commitment of young people to the development of the local community. The workshops are shaping up to be an exciting and valuable educational endeavor!

Krzysztof Łyżyń's works take viewers on a journey through various perspectives of time and space, encouraging reflection on the transience of the world and the impact of time on our lives. The exhibition combines traditional techniques with a modern approach to form and content, creating a unique dialogue between the past and the future.

The 4th Dimension is a space perfectly aligned with the idea of intergenerational collaboration, promoting culture and art in an accessible way for everyone. The "Spacetimes" exhibition is open to all and invites a deeper dive into the artistic interpretations of time and space.

 During the conversation, the Mayor answered questions about investments in education, transport, and culture, as well as opportunities for young people in the city. The young councilors also inquired about plans to create spaces for youth initiatives and the development of recreational infrastructure.

The total cost of implementing the five winning projects will amount to 1,100,291 PLN. Additionally, with the remaining over 10,000 PLN, the city will carry out two smaller projects: 'White Saturday – Early Detection of Diabetes' and 'Social Integration in the Kolonia Robotnicza Neighborhood

These are the next public consultations, which, thanks to the implemented standards and methodology, are much more accessible to residents due to the online format.

The OstraKarta promotion also included radio spots broadcasted on Radio Ostrowiec and Radio Rekord, as well as information shared during live broadcasts and later in a television segment prepared by the Local Media Group. Promotional items related to the OstraKarta, such as pens, t-shirts, mugs with the slogan 'OstraKarta - Connecting People and Places,' and speaker-shaped keychains symbolizing something new and important in our city, were prepared for residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. These items were given out during the Ostrowiec Days as prizes for participating in the contest, as a thank-you for applying for the OstraKarta, and as an incentive to apply for one. Promotional activities are ongoing. In addition to posters at bus shelters, radio spots are being broadcast on Radio Ostrowiec, encouraging potential Program Partners to offer discounts or preferences for OstraKarta holders. These spots are recorded by current partners, serving as an excellent form of advertising for both the benefits of being a Partner and the promotion of their own businesses.

The voting will be organized from August 23, 2024, to September 15, 2024, both online and in person.

More information about the project and the drawing can be found on the website: boos.um.ostrowiec.pl

Voting will begin on August 23, 2024, and will end on September 15, 2024.

The youth summarized the event with a social media post that perfectly captures the emotions that accompanied it:

'We are happy with such a large turnout and hope you are satisfied with the entire day we spent together. This day and the wonderful new friendships will motivate us to organize more such events. See you soon

To achieve this, on September 15, 2022, a public procurement process was announced. The process involved the development and printing of a publication on the history of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski for the adult residents of the city. On October 4, 2022, the most favorable offer was selected.

As a result of the contract with the contractor, the Józef Gołuchowski Academy of Applied Sciences, a 580-page monograph of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski was produced, bound in a hard cover. A total of 500 copies were printed. Some of these copies were distributed to all libraries operating in the city, including school libraries, some were made available to residents during the book’s launch at the Municipal Public Library, another batch was given to City Council members, and several dozen copies were sent to provincial and national libraries. The remaining copies were distributed to residents interested in the city’s history.

Due to the high demand for the monograph, a decision was made to print an additional 2,000 copies. On February 19, 2024, an agreement was signed with the publishing agency 'Paj-Press' s.c., with a contract completion deadline set for March 29, 2024.

The reprinted copies are being gradually distributed to city residents using various methods, including during events related to the city’s history, through formal and informal groups involved in community engagement, and upon individual request from residents to the City Hall.

The Municipality prepared special booklet which is helpful for the partners and residentts of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski to register.

The Project was organised  as a part of European Youth Councils Congress. 

The Youth had a really good fun and lots of pleasure during the workshops conducted by Agnieszka Tercz- the Head of Association Education by interent”. She tried in very interesting way to present the solution how to make Europe the place in which everybody feels the  chance to  personal development. 

The Municipality of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, while implementing the project "Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski — City ReNEWal" co-financed by Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway under the EEA Financial Mechanism 2014-2021 and the Norwegian Financial Mechanism 2014-2021, as part of the task "Conducting educational and promotional activities for city stakeholders and developing and conducting a promotion process for solutions developed at the stage of implementing a new development path", has announced a tender for submitting offers for the provision of services  entitled: "Graphic design, typesetting, printing and delivery of an information brochure."

The Municipality's intention is to conceptualize and print an informational brochure that will summarize the activities of the Municipality of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski within the “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski - City ReNEWal” project.

The brochure will be a summary of the information contained in the already developed manual, which details the tasks carried out within the “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski - City ReNEWal” project. The manual in question will include all the activities undertaken under the project. It will present all the good practices acquired through the bilateral cooperation of the Municipality of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski with the Municipality of Sogndal. Furthermore, it will encompass the entire scope of work related to the establishment of the Youth City Council, new editions of the Civic Budget, social consultations, loyalty card, adaptation of spaces for people with disabilities, and most importantly, the building of the identity of the residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. As part of the latter task, a monograph of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, Baśnie Dawnego Ostrowca [Tales of Old Ostrowiec], and a comic book were published. 

The Municipality of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, while implementing the “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski - City ReNEWal” project with funding received from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway under the EEA Financial Mechanism 2014-2021 and the Norwegian Financial Mechanism, as part of the task I am an Ostrowiec Resident – Documenting and Reintroducing Elements of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Identity and as part of the proceedings for "Preparation of publication, graphics, printing and substantive development of content and concept (scenario) of a comic book for children and youth" developed a comic book for children and youth. 

The 40-page story narrates the joint "battle" of legendary creatures from Norway and Poland against the mythological "boneless" vampire, who finds himself at the center of an e-sports tournament held in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. The illustrations are colorful, surprising, and sometimes even scary, making one shudder while reading. 

Open workshops and lectures to educate people on the legal aspects of social media and the fundamentals of photography and videography were held during the months of February and March. The trainings were aimed at employees of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Municipality units, young people from primary and secondary schools and representatives of the Youth City Council for the purpose of cooperation with the Municipality in the presentation of products in new channels of communication and for residents of our city.

The participants of the training had the opportunity to learn the characteristics of the most important social media, i.e., Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn and TikTok. They learned the basic rules governing brand communication in social media, their advantages and disadvantages, as well as how to use promotional tools for achieving the established advertising goals.

The workshops were held under the guidance of an experienced trainer, a lecturer at the University of Silesia in Katowice, who deals with issues related to the broadly understood social media on a daily basis.

The training was organized by the City Hall of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski with funding from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway under the EEA Financial Mechanism 2014–2021 and the Norwegian Financial Mechanism 2014–2021. The meetings were divided so that the content was tailored to each target group. 

The conference began with presentations on the implementation of projects in Starachowice, Stalowa Wola and Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. The first to speak was Starachowice Vice Mayor Marcin Golębiowski, who presented selected aspects that have been implemented under the Local Development program. The presentation “Model Solutions to Difficult Challenges” (orig. Modelowe rozwiązania na trudne wyzwania) was given by Arleta Siwek, Head of the Stalowa Wola Local Activity Center. The head of the Planning and Development Department, Dominik Smoliński, spoke about the main assumptions of the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski project.

Grzegorz Kaczmarek, an expert of the Association of Polish Cities, presented the results of the study “City as a place to live — Youth's self-portrait” (orig. Miasto jako miejsce do życia — Młodzieży portret własny). In total, the Association of Polish Cities surveyed more than 30,000 students in the final year of secondary schools from Skarżysko Kamienna, Stalowa Wola and Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. The results of the survey were a great opportunity to discuss support for young people, the creation of civic and entrepreneurial attitudes and the problems of depopulation, which was attended by the Vice Mayor of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski and Starachowice, as well as the Head of the Department of the Stalowa [TO1] Wola Center for Local Activity.

After discussing the prepared presentations, the invited guests took part in a panel discussion about the need to adapt urban policies to the issues related to urban shrinkage processes. The panel was moderated by Deputy Head of the Planning and Development Department Tomasz Gębka. 

The conference concluded with a joint presentation by three Youth City Councils. Stanislaw Krasowski from Stalowa Wola talked about the difficulties the Youth City Council encountered while working on joint projects. Klaudia Chamera and Olga Cukierska from Starachowice talked about innovative methods used to involve young people in the local community. Liva and Emma from Norway cited the benefits of collaboration among young community leaders. Armando Malesza and Julia Skowron of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski summed up several months of activities of the Youth City Council of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. 

The conference was attended by representatives of cities that have implemented activities under the “Local Development” program and their partners from Norwegian cities.

Nearly 100 local government officials from Poland and Norway met in the Norwegian city of Bergen to discuss effective outreach to residents, clear communication and the role of artificial intelligence. 

This meeting was an excellent opportunity to learn, exchange views and build relationships between Polish and Norwegian partners. Thanks to such initiatives, our cities can develop even more effectively! 

Julita Perlik, an inspector of the Investment Department in charge of the implementation of the task concerning the brine graduation towers on the Ogrody estate, was also present at the conference. 

“I sincerely thank the contractor who undertook this task. At the same time, I am very happy to have signed the contract for this investment, because soon the residents will be able to use the brine graduation towers, which are extremely beneficial for health and relaxation. This investment will certainly bring many positive effects to our community.” — said Vice Mayor Artur Łakomiec.

During the conference, a contract was signed with the contractor for the design-and-build investment of a brine graduation tower with power and water connections on the Ogrody estate. This is the project that won the most points (6212) during the last edition of the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Civic Budget.

“I would like to thank the residents for their tremendous involvement in the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Civic Budget. It is also worth noting that this project did not come out of nowhere, it was weeks of discussions with residents about their needs. I hope that brine graduation towers will be built not only in the Ogrody estate and Stawki estate, but also in other locations of our city.” — Joanna Pikus, proposer of the project, noted at the conference.

Brine graduation towers have a positive effect on mood and mental health, have a relaxing effect and reduce stress. Sea salt in the brine has relaxing properties and has a positive effect on emotional balance. It is also worth noting that brine graduation towers help treat respiratory diseases, and brine itself has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects.

The brine graduation tower on the Ogrody estate will be a wooden structure with a minimum height of 3.0 meters and a minimum diameter of 2.2 meters. It will have a built-in brine tank, and will also be equipped with a circulation pump mounted in the tank and a full brine distribution system, as well as a control and automation cabinet. The planned brine graduation tower will have a system for automatic replenishment of the water in the tank, so there will be no need to monitor the brine level.

Thanks to the fact that the graduation tower will be illuminated with warm white light, residents will also be able to use it in the evenings. 

These projects were submitted in the last edition of the Civic Budget. 

Tomasz Gębka, Deputy Head of the Department of Planning and Development of the City Hall of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski was appointed coordinator of the Civic Budget.

A Civic Budget Election Committee has also been established, which will oversee the proper conduct of voting for projects to be implemented as part of the civic budget.

The ordinance signed at the press conference announced a schedule for the next steps of the civic budget:

by 31 March 2024 — announcing information about the schedule of public consultations of the civic budget and conduct an information and promotional campaign for the civic budget.

1 April 2024 – 19 May 2024 — deadline for applicants to submit projects for implementation under the civic budget.

20 May 2024 – 16 August 2024 — project verification consisting of formal, substantive and technical evaluation. Making public the results of project evaluation with justification. Consideration by the Panel of appeals against negative evaluation of projects. Conducting a random drawing of projects, which will determine the order of projects on the voting lists.

23 August 2024 – 15 September 2023 — vote on projects submitted for implementation under the civic budget.

by 30 September 2024 — announcing the results of the vote.

For detailed information on the Civic Budget of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski visit: https://boos.um.ostrowiec.pl/

The plaques have been placed, among other locations, in the City Park, where 7 facilities have been installed (an inclusive set, a carousel, two arched swings, an inclusive swing, a bike (gym), an upper pull-up bar (gym) + waste segregation bin and an educational picnic table. These facilities will be used for the joint integration of people with disabilities, including children moving in wheelchairs, for shared play with peers who do not have such limitations. 

The Senior Council will have a consultative, advisory, and initiative character. It will consist of representatives of older persons and entities working for older persons, especially representatives of non-governmental organizations and entities running universities for the elderly. When creating the senior council, the city council will give it a statute specifying, among other things,

1.       the procedure and criteria for selecting its members,

2.       the principles and procedures of its operation,

3.       the length of its term, with the term not exceeding the term of the municipal council in the area where this council operates,

4.       the rules for terminating the mandate, and recalling its members.

The Senior Council will be able to submit a proposal to authorized entities to initiate legislative initiatives. The procedure for submitting a proposal to initiate legislative initiatives is specified in the Ostrowiec Municipality statute. The administrative and office support for the Senior Council will be provided by the city office. The costs of servicing the Senior Council will be covered by the city office.

Members of the university for the elderly expressed appreciation for this initiative and are willing to participate in its creation. The next step will be consultations, including with the Neighborhood Clubs of Active Seniors. 

We are a new organization. We want to organize a surprise for the youth, namely a disco. We have prepared 2000 tickets available for purchase at the City Cultural Center. We invite young people aged 13-21 - says Armando Malesza, the chairman of the YCC.

Another initiative is the joint implementation of open workshops called “W pułapce myśli” ("Trapped in Thought"). The Poviat Family Support Center in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, along with partners such as: the Local Development Center, the Psychological-Pedagogical Counseling Center in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, and the Youth City Council of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, is organizing psychological and educational workshops for children and youth entitled “W pułapce myśli.” Initially scheduled for February 2, 2024, due to high interest, the workshops were moved to a larger hall on February 5, 2024. 

On the following streets: Karola Szymanowskiego, Armii Krajowej, Marii Dąbrowskiej – intersection with Wspólna Street, Marii Dąbrowskiej — intersection with Marii Konopnickiej Street and Wspólna — intersection with Mikołaja Kopernika Street, sidewalks and pedestrian crossings will be adapted to the needs of people with disabilities, enhancing the safety of these areas. Additionally, parking spaces for individuals with special needs will be provided in their vicinity. Within the city, playgrounds have already been equipped with facilities for people with disabilities. These have been placed in the following locations: Gutwin Recreation Center, Market Square in Denkowo, F. Chopina Street, Ogrody Estate on E. Dziewulskiego Street, S. Wyspiańskiego Street, the Fabryczny Park, and Marshal Józef Piłsudski City Park. Construction work has been or will be carried out in four buildings, along with the purchase of equipment to improve accessibility. 

- “It is high time for architectural barriers preventing individuals with disabilities from using public utility facilities to disappear from public spaces. I would like to see investments like these consistently implemented in our city. Therefore, with the completion of works in PP11 and PP19, we are now adapting PP12 and the building housing the Local Social Welfare Center (MOPS)," declares Vice Mayor Artur Łakomiec.

- “In our kindergarten, among other things, the external staircase at the main entrance was modernized, the sidewalk was reconstructed, and most importantly, an external lift for people with disabilities was installed”, recounts Aneta Stachurska, director of Public Kindergarten No. 19. These are very important investments for both the children with disability certificates attending our facility and their parents. 

- We have four months left to settle the project based on Norwegian funds, admits Dominik Smoliński, head of the Planning and Development Department of the Municipal Office in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. Two final agreements related to investment and renovation expenditures concerning the accessibility of public facilities for people with disabilities have just been signed. We are obliged to submit a report for 2023 by January 21 of this year. With this report, we make financial settlement for the entire year. What lies ahead is the closing of agreements related to the accessibility of public spaces.  We have resolved proceedings related to training and workshops for the City Youth Council, city residents and City Hall employees regarding copyright issues. Together with the partner city of Songdal, a comic book will be prepared in Polish and English. We are planning a concluding conference with the participation of experts from the Association of Polish Cities for March. 

It is also important to remember that construction and equipment works are systematically carried out in the building of the Center for Continuing Education (orig. Centrum Kształcenia Ustawicznego), where the Ostrowiec Integrator of Education and Entrepreneurs (orig. Ostrowiecki Integrator Edukacji i Przedsiębiorczych) is being established. The integrator will feature zones such as electronics, robotics, mechatronics and 3D printing, educational CNC with software, e-sports, game development, coding, small kids, sewing, environmental, entrepreneurship, VR, DIY, as well as crazy ideas and inventions, and rooms for hairdressing, multimedia, language courses, training, and reintegration. 

The local government is also counting on positive information from the Ministry of Funds and Regional Policy about increasing the project funding by up to PLN 3 million.

As a result of the discussions, 6 committees were formed, each consisting of 6 members. These committees cover Social Affairs, Media and Promotion, Culture, Education and Cooperation with Local Governments, Sports and Tourism, Infrastructure and Ecology, Recreation and International Cooperation, says Armando Malesza, Chairman of the Youth City Council of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski.

The session was followed by a press conference, at which Armando Malesza announced a surprise for the young residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – a disco party scheduled for 9 February 2024 in the MOSiR hall.

For now, the council members did not reveal too many details. Angela Mozal said the event will likely start at 6 PM and is expected to host 2,000 - 3,000 people aged 13-21. It will be a great opportunity to integrate and have fun together. 

"Every initiative by and for the youth holds significance and we should appreciate it. Of course, the active participation of our institutions, namely the Municipal Cultural Center, and the City Sports and Leisure Center (MOSiR), is crucial. Our institutions will ensure safety. While we regret not being able to attend the event due to age restrictions, we will undoubtedly show our support” – concluded Artur Łakomiec, Vice Mayor of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. 

The monograph is the result of several months of collaborative effort. It presents the history of the city up to the year 1990, with subsequent years outlined in the form of a chronicle. It comprises a total of 10 chapters and includes an extensive photographic documentation.

On 10 November 2022, a meeting with the authors of the monograph was organized at the Municipal Public Library, aiming to promote this, eagerly awaited by the local community, initiative which is part of the Ostrowca Świętokrzyskiego "Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal" project, funded by Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway under the EEA Financial Mechanism 2014-2021 and the Norwegian Financial Mechanism.

First of all, we want to equip history and social studies teachers with these copies so that they can use this material in the teaching process and disseminate it, allowing future generations of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski residents to identify with our city," said Artur Łakomiec, Vice President of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, during the meeting.

A total of 500 copies of the monograph were published.

In the next item on the agenda, Chairwoman of the City Council Irena Renduda-Dudek addressed the assembly:  "Dear Youth Councilors, the most important thing is that you are representatives of your youth communities, your voters, and the voices of these individuals you will represent in sessions. I have no doubt that you will carry out the duty arising from the oath taken with dignity, integrity, and honesty. Congratulations on your election, and we, the members of the City Council, are ready to cooperate with you. Your fresh perspective on many issues will facilitate our decision-making."

Next, Vice Mayor Artur Łakomiec spoke: "I am delighted with the extraordinary opportunity that today's inauguration of the Youth City Council of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski represents. This is a historic moment that attests to your readiness to engage in the affairs of our city and your willingness to lead these changes."

During the proceedings, the elected youth members took the oath and became full-fledged members of the Youth City Council. During the first meeting, the Council unanimously elected Armando Malesza as the Chairman, and Angela Mozal and Aleksandra Kwapisz as Vice Chairwomen. The Youth Council Chairman did not hide his satisfaction with the entrusted role: "It is a very responsible function; there will be a lot of work, a lot of diligence and honesty, but I look to the future with the best outlook. As councilors, we want to listen to the youth of Ostrowiec because, let's not deceive ourselves, we are the future of this city; we will be here in a few, a dozen years to work, live, develop our passions. Therefore, we primarily want to listen to the youth," he said shortly after being sworn in.

"Your task will not be easy. It will require determination, cooperation, as well as the ability to listen and understand the needs of different social groups. However, I am confident that you will successfully meet these challenges. Your diversity, creativity, and ability to cooperate are key elements that will allow you to effectively represent the youth of Ostrowiec," – Vice Mayor Artur Łakomiec addressed the Youth Councilors.  

“Some of the investments have already been completed, and some are underway. We strive to make Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski a city that is friendly to everyone, and we do not forget about people with disabilities. The investments being made in our city will certainly make life easier for people with mobility impairments, as well as contribute to the integration of the Ostrowiec community.” — stated the Vice-Mayor during the conference.

The Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Commune is carrying out three major tasks related to improving the situation of public place accessibility for people with disabilities.

1.      Adapting sidewalks and pedestrian crossings to meet the needs of people with disabilities and making these places safer.

The scope of the investment project covers:

- construction of 2 parking spaces at ul. Karola Szymanowskiego for people with special needs 

with concrete pavers, along with the modification of existing sidewalks and pedestrian accesses, lowering the curb, providing lighting for pedestrian crossings, and vertical and horizontal signage,

- designation of 2 parking spaces at ul. Armii Krajowej for people with special needs 

on the existing parking bay at residential block no. 13, designation of on parking space for persons with special needs located on the existing parking bay with an asphalt-concrete surface at residential block no. 31, construction of vertical and horizontal signage, construction of a new pedestrian crossing at residential block no. 37, along with lowering the curb, modification of existing sidewalks and pedestrian accesses, as well as construction of vertical and horizontal signage and providing lighting for the pedestrian crossing.

- modification of existing pedestrian crossings, along with modification of existing sidewalks and pedestrian accesses at ul. Marii Dąbrowskiej.

- modification of existing pedestrian crossings, along with modification of existing sidewalks and pedestrian accesses, construction of vertical and horizontal sinage and providing additional lighting for pedestrian crossings at ul. Marii Dąbrowskiej — intersection with ul. Marii Konopnickiej.

- modification of existing pedestrian crossings along with modification of existing sidewalks and pedestrian accesses, construction of vertical and horizontal signage and providing lighting of pedestrian crossings at ul. Wspólna — intersection with ul. Mikołaja Kopernika.

In addition, tactile pavers will be laid at pedestrian crossings for the 

visually impaired, and pedestrian crossings will be illuminated with neutral color LED street lamps dedicated to this purpose.

2.      Adaptation of playgrounds to the needs of people with disabilities.

The youngest residents of our city, will be able to use the retrofitted playgrounds in the following locations:

1)      Gutwin Recreation Center — one device (inclusive carousel);

2)      Market Square in Denkowo — two devices (inclusive set, arch swing) + waste segregation bin;

3)      ul. F. Chopina — one device (inclusive swing) + waste segregation bin;

4)      Fabryczny Park — four devices (inclusive set, carousel, arch swing, inclusive swing) + waste segregation bin and educational picnic table;

5)       Marshal Józef Piłsudski City Park — seven devices (inclusive set, carousel, two arch swings, integration swing, exercise bicycle (fitness equipment), cable machine (fitness equipment) + waste segregation bin and educational picnic table;

6)      Ogrody estate at ul. E. Dziewulskiego — five devices (inclusive set, carousel, arch swing, inclusive swing, cable machine (fitness equipment) + waste segregation bin and educational picnic table;

7)      ul. S. Wyspiańskiego — three devices (inclusive set, carousel, inclusive swing) + waste segregation bin and educational picnic table.

The above locations were selected through consultations with the housing estate councils — the consultations were carried out by the Head of the Planning and Development Department Dominik Smoliński and his deputy Tomasz Gębka, as well as Vice Chairwoman of the City Council Joanna Pikus.

3.      Increasing accessibility for people with special needs in public buildings belonging to the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Commune.

As part of the aforementioned investment project, civil works and the purchase of equipment to improve access to public buildings belonging to the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Commune were commissioned.

The task includes four buildings: Public Kindergarten No. 11 — ul. Wspólna 20, Public Kindergarten No. 12 — Słoneczne estate 5, Public Kindergarten No. 19 — Ogrody estate 20, and the building that houses the headquarters of the Municipal Social Welfare Center at ul. Świętokrzyska 22.

Scope of the order:

1) Public Kindergarten No. 11

-              modification of exterior stairs and ramp for the disabled at the main entrance to the building,

-              exterior door replacement,

-              installation of an air curtain,

2) Public Kindergarten No. 12

-              modification of exterior stairs and ramp for the disabled at the main entrance,

-              modification of the bathroom for the disabled,

-              construction of guiding paths with a typhlographic board,

-              replacement of fire doors in the stairwell,

-              supply and installation of an induction loop,

3) Public Kindergarten No. 19

-              upgrading the exterior stairs at the main entrance,

-              modification of the sidewalk,

-              installation of an exterior lift for the disabled,

4)           the Municipal Social Welfare Center building

-              renovation of the exterior stairs at the main entrance,

-              upgrading the bathroom for the disabled located on the first floor of the building,

-              guiding paths with a typhlographic board on the first floor of the building,

-              supply and installation of an induction loop.

In the Public Kindergarten No. 11 building, the works have been completed. Site cleanup and completion of as-built documentation is underway. A lift for the disabled will be installed at Public Kindergarten No. 19. Work will also soon begin at Public Kindergarten No. 12 and the Municipal Social Welfare Center building.

The subject of the agreement will include the execution of construction works, delivery, installation of equipment and furnishings for the reconstruction and expansion of the building of education, science and culture, together with the change of use of part of the building for educational and office purposes for the Ostrowiec Education and Entrepreneurship Integrator. The building in question is located at ul. Sandomierska 26A in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. It currently also houses the Centrum Kształcenia Ustawicznego (Eng. Continuous Education Center).

The Integrator will house, among others:

- ELECTRONICS, ROBOTICS, MECHATRONICS AND 3D PRINTING ZONE

- CNC TEACHING ZONE WITH SOFTWARE 

- OPEN ZONE 

- MULTIFUNCTIONAL ROOM - E-SPORT, GAME DEVELOPMENT AND CODING ZONE, CONFERENCE ROOM

- SMALL KIDS ZONE

- DIY ZONE AS WELL AS CRAZY IDEAS AND INVENTIONS ZONE

- SEWING ZONE

- ENVIRONMENTAL ZONE

- ENTREPRENEURSHIP ZONE

- MULTIMEDIA ZONE

- HAIRDRESSING ROOM

- LANGUAGE ROOM

- TRAINING ROOM

- REINTEGRATION ROOM

- VR ZONE

On 16 October 2023, the most favorable bid for the investment was selected. The contractor is a consortium of companies consisting of:

Leader: Termobud A. J. Kowal Sp. z o.o.

Partner no. 1: Instytut Technologii Zabytków Sp. z o.o., Sp. K.

Partner no. 2: Mrs. Małgorzata Misiukanis conducting business under the name MARGOT - TOP Małgorzata Misiukanis

The agreement was signed on behalf of the investor by Vice Mayor Artur Łakomiec, and on behalf of the contractor by Mr. Wojciech Delmaczyński President of the Board of Termobud and Leader of the Consortium.

The newly elected council members will serve a two-year term, with the first session likely to take place between November and December. 

Five youth council members attend primary schools – PSP 3, PSP 4, PSP 5, PSP 14, and Zespół Edukacyjny Dwunastka, while the rest represent secondary schools.

The highest turnout was recorded at the Stanisław Staszic High School,  with 165 votes, accounting for 15% of all votes. Following in the vote count were Władysław Broniewski High School with 149 votes and Joachim Chreptowicz High School with 125 votes.

"Youth councillors will primarily be involved in reviewing all resolutions concerning young people, participating in the preparation of strategic documents for the youth, and monitoring the implementation of documents that the 'adult' City Council will adopt for processing. We want the representatives of the Youth City Council to promote self-government, shape democratic and patriotic attitudes, which are very close to our municipality. I would also like the Youth Council to decide on the initiatives it will undertake, but I would like them to actively engage in promoting the adoption of animals from shelters and temporary homes," – stated Artur Łakomiec during the conference. 

Below, we provide the list of members of the Youth City Council of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski:

1. Stanisław Lipka
2. Marcel Langner
3. Angela Mozal
4. Maja Rafalska
5. Alan Turek
6. Armando Malesza
7. Wiktoria Przepiórka
8. Julia Szymańska
9. Aleksandra Kwapisz
10. Zofia Ptasińska
11. Jakub Dychała
12. Ksawery Dukielski
13. Klaudia Pająk
14. Anna Głazek
15. Filip Rachwał
16. Julia Kaczmarska
17. Julia Skowron
18. Oliwia Gondek
19. Amelia Siemieniuch
20. Martyna Kacała
21. Marcela Mozal
22. Laura Podgórny
23. Zofia Ciechanowska

1. Driving Training Center SMILE, represented by Mr. Łukasz Orłowski and Mr. Grzegorz Płaża -  Aleja 3 Maja 4, offering: -5% discount on all services for individual customers,

-10% discount for household members using the services simultaneously.

2. Eko-Clima, represented by Mr. Rafał Kołowajtys - ul. Jesionowa 16, providing: -10% discount on installation, purchase, and service of air conditioning, and

-5% discount on installation, purchase, and service of heat pumps.

3. Driving Training Center Monte-Carlo, represented by Mr. Norbert Kamoda - ul. Al. Jana Pawła II 45, offering: -5% discount on driving license courses for categories B, B+E, C, C+E.

4. Lider Taxi, represented by Mr. Emil Piputa – President of Lider Taxi Group Sp. z o.o. and Mr. Jakub Styczeń - Ul. Sandomierska 26, providing: -10% discount for every customer on each ride, upon presenting the Ostrowiec Resident Card.

5. GRAVITACJA, represented by Mr. Partyk Mroczkowski - Os. Ogrody 3, offering: -5% discount on all items, excluding alcohol.

6. Healthy Lifestyle by Agnieszka Milewska, represented by Ms. Agnieszka Milewska - ul. Targowa 21, providing: -20% discount on the base price for non-invasive examination of vitamin, mineral, heavy metal levels, and oxidative stress in cells. The discount cannot be combined with other promotions; and -10% discount on all other services.

7. KSERO-wnik, represented by Mr. Marcin Perczak - ul. Rosłońskiego 2, offering: -5% discount on the following services: copying, printing, laminating, binding. The discount applies to services above PLN 20.00.

Additionally, municipal companies offer discounts for Ostrowiec residents in various venues such as:

•             Centre for the Tradition of Metallurgy: Normal ticket PLN 25, discounted ticket PLN 20 – with "OstraKarta" PLN 17.

•            Etiuda Cinema – an additional 2 PLN discount with "OstraKarta" for each ticket

•             Zone of Discovery of Imagination and Activity: Normal ticket 12 PLN, discounted ticket 10 PLN – with "OstraKarta" 9 PLN.

•             Swimming Pool: 10% off the price of a swimming pass.

10% off the sauna entry fee.

10% off the gym entry fee run by MOSiR.

"I am pleased that our base of companies offering discounts to our residents is constantly expanding. Now, as part of the OstraKarta program, I invite companies, institutions, associations, and foundations of any size and sector to collaborate, offering residents discounts, benefits, or preferential access to their goods and services," – stated Vice Mayor Artur Łakomiec during the conference. 

"As of now, we have issued 3927 cards, and the number of established accounts is as high as 4475,” – added Vice President Łakomiec.

More information about "OstraKarta" can be found by clicking on the link: https://ostrakarta.um.ostrowiec.pl. 

1.       Polna Laundry represented by Mr. Łukasz Dzik – ul. Polna 7b, suite 13U, which offers: 10% off all textile laundry services, except for carpet cleaning.

2.       Remax Steel Real Estate Agency represented by Mr. Łukasz Dzik -  ul. Polna 7b, suite 11U, which offers: - free consultations and price quotations for property sales, and

2.
10% discount on the final invoice for property sales, purchases, and rentals.

3.       FIGURA Body Modeling Studio represented by Monika and Piotr Zięba -  ul. 11 Listopada, which offers: 15% discount on the use of the Fitness Zone.

4.       Fikoland represented by Anna Mazur and Izabela Dąbrowska - Ogrody 28, which offers: - 10% discount on children's entertainment for kids under 12.

5.       Adam's Apple - fruits, vegetables, homemade preserves, represented by Adam Mackiewicz - Ogrody 26a, which offers: - 5% discount on all purchases.

6.       KSB Real Estate Agency represented by Sebastian Banaczek -  ul. Denkowska 8, which offers: 15% discount on each issued invoice, free assistance in assessing the legal status of properties, free consultation regarding property sales.

Additionally, municipal companies also offer City discounts that residents of Ostrowiec can enjoy:

• Centre for the Tradition of Metallurgy: Normal ticket PLN 25, discounted ticket PLN 20 – with "OstraKarta" PLN 17.

• Etiuda Cinema – an additional 2 PLN discount with "OstraKarta" for each ticket

• Zone of Discovery of Imagination and Activity: Normal ticket 12 PLN, discounted ticket 10 PLN – with "OstraKarta" 9 PLN.

• Swimming Pool: 10% off the price of a swimming pass.

10% off the sauna entry fee.

10% off the gym entry fee run by MOSiR.

"We are pleased that our base of companies and institutions offering discounts to our residents is constantly expanding. You can see the full list of discounts on the website ostrakarta.um.ostrowiec.pl, which you can also access through the resident portal and the city's website. I would like to remind you that, among other things, the OstraKarta entitles its holders to discounts at the cinema, the Centre for the Tradition of Metallurgy, SOWA, and on swimming passes. I would also like to invite all locally operating businesses to participate in our program. Details on how to become a partner are available on the Ostra Karta website," said Vice President Artur Łakomiec during the conference.

"You can obtain the card by downloading an application on your phone called 'ostrakarta.' At the moment, over 4,100 cards have been issued,"  added Vice President Łakomiec.

"I am extremely pleased to be a part of this program. As President already mentioned, this initiative is mutually beneficial, allowing residents to enjoy discounts on products and services while giving us, as entrepreneurs, a valuable tool for promoting our businesses and acquiring new customers," said Monika Zięba from the FIGURA Body Modeling Studio.

"I represent the healthier side since we sell fruits and vegetables in Ogrody 26a. I hope residents will use OstraKarta when shopping in our store," said Adam Mackiewicz, one of the partners of OstraKarta.

We invite both small family businesses and large corporations to join the Ostrowiec Resident Card program "OstraKarta." All that is needed is to offer services or other attractions for the residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. Our collaboration is based on principles of voluntariness and partnership.

More information about "OstraKarta" can be found by clicking on the link: https://ostrakarta.um.ostrowiec.pl .

These playground enhancements are being implemented at the following locations:

1.         Playground at Gutwin Recreation Center – 1 device (inclusive carousel);

2.         Playground at the Market Square in Denkowo - 2 devices (inclusive set, arc swing) + waste segregation bin;

3.         Playground on F. Chopina Street – 1 device (inclusive swing) + waste segregation bin,

4.         Playground in Fabryczny Park – 4 devices (inclusive set, carousel, arch swing, inclusive swing) + waste segregation bin and educational picnic table;

5.         Playground in the Marshal Józef Piłsudski City Park – 7 devices (inclusive set, carousel, two arch swings, integration swing, bicycle (fitness equipment), pull-down machine (fitness equipment) + waste segregation bin and educational picnic table;

6.         Playground in the Ogrody Estate on E. Dziewulskiego Street – 5 devices (inclusive set, carousel, arch swing, inclusive swing, pull-down machine (fitness equipment) + waste segregation bin and educational picnic table;

7.         Playground on S. Wyspiańskiego Street – 3 devices (inclusive set, carousel, inclusive swing) + waste segregation bin and educational picnic table.

As a result of the procurement procedure, Grupa Magic Garden Sp. z o.o., ul. Dworcowa 52/54, 88-100 Inowrocław, which submitted the most favorable offer, was selected as the Contractor. The contract with the Contractor was concluded on 26 May 2023. 

The total value of the aforementioned investment is PLN 881,340.51 gross.

"Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski– City ReNEWal" benefits from funding received from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway under the EEA Financial Mechanism 2014-2021 and the Norwegian Financial Mechanism 2014-2021. The project aims to improve the lives of residents of all ages by achieving various changes in the city’s socio-economic development, and in the sphere of local public administration.

The previous record for participation was set in the 2015 edition, with slightly over 4,000 people voting. This year's edition significantly surpassed that record, with 6,162 participants (approximately 10% of the eligible population, regardless of age). The majority, nearly 1,000 people, voted on the first and last days, and the daily average was approximately 450 voters.

The voting process was continuously monitored and randomly verified, including phone verification of online voters.  Votes from the same IP address were also reviewed, and the system prevented duplicate votes. The commission found no major irregularities, although there were some errors in the provided birth dates, which were likely input mistakes by the voters. Interestingly, the majority of voters were women, making up 57% of the total, and a significant majority voted via their mobile phone browsers, accounting for 75% of the votes.

Enabling young people to participate in the Civic Budget has proven to be a success, as the statistics show. A total of 25% of all voters were 25 years old or younger, and 7 proposals included in the voting process were submitted by minors. 

Vice-Mayor Artur Łakomiec expressed his gratitude to all the proposal submitters and voters during a press conference presenting the budget results. He invited everyone to review the results while emphasizing that even projects that did not win but achieved significant results deserve at least partial implementation. 

The project with the highest number of votes was Project No. 20, "Brine Graduation Towers in the Ogrody and Stawki estates”, receiving as many as 6,212 points. The next in line was the development of the area by the pond in Częstocice, followed by the project involving the construction of a traffic training area in the Koszary estate. The last project accepted for implementation was social integration in the "Kolonia Robotnicza" estate.

The full list of results can be found at www.boos.um.ostrowiec.pl and by clicking the link HERE 

On 26 September 2023, after a brief welcome by Sogndal Municipality representatives, entire group embarked on a walking tour of Sogndal city. This walk provided an excellent opportunity to become acquainted with the city's infrastructure, particularly those facilities dedicated to recreation and relaxation. Next, the group visited the Cultural Center, where they learned about the cultural offerings of Sogndal, including cinema, theater, and the library. They were also introduced to a new project – Sogndal Municipality is preparing a special space for young people to spend their leisure time. The group then proceeded to the "Science Center,” a place dedicated to promoting science and inspiring observation. The building is divided into several zones and stands as a great example of cooperation between private business and the local government. The last item on the day's agenda was a visit to the "pumptrack,” a specialized bike track. This visit allowed for the exchange of insights, as a similar track was opened in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski a few months ago. 

The following day began with a meeting with an employee from Sogndal Municipality's City Hall, a personal development trainer responsible for implementing positive standards among the municipality's staff. Trust, cooperation beyond divisions, and building good relations between the local government and residents are the main objectives guiding all Sogndal Municipality employees. Subsequently, the delegation took a walk through the educational campus of Sogndal, a place that combines sports, business, and educational infrastructure. This visit also offered a great opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Sogndal Municipality as the delegation toured the fjord – the second-largest in the world and the longest in Europe. On the same day, the group also visited a local fruit farm, a company specializing in the cultivation and supply of fresh juices and cider. This visit provided an excellent chance to learn about local traditions, production and sales regulations for such products. The meeting concluded with dinner at an ecological farm, combined with a tour to acquaint participants with the principles of ecological production.

This was another visit under the project “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal”, which took place a few weeks after the visit of the Norwegian delegation to Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. It served as a summary of the Norwegians' visit to Poland and provided another opportunity for the exchange of experiences and solutions applied in Sogndal in the fields of recreation, education, culture, sports, and entrepreneurship. Mutual declarations of cooperation and joint development of the course of further visits and new ventures, in accordance with bilateral agreement No. 1/2022 dated 31 May 2022, became an important element.

The attendees were presented with a program synthesis for evaluation, along with the opportunity to submit their amendments, suggestions, and elements that were not included in the document.  The meetings were also an opportunity to present their views on the job market in Ostrowiec and the economic situation. Young people shared their ideas, observations, and interesting proposals regarding the socio-economic development of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, including the issue of the outflow of educated young people from the city, with entrepreneurs and professionals.

Entrepreneurs and representatives of business support institutions presented their perspectives on the situation in Ostrowiec and compared it to other regions of the country. Interesting discussions emerged, demonstrating that young people are interested in the local job market and are aware of the challenges and problems they face. On the other hand, they had the opportunity to understand the viewpoints of those who have been operating in the local market for years.

Entrepreneurs pointed out issues that need to be resolved to ensure continued development of local entrepreneurship, especially in the SME sector, which constitutes 96% of businesses in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. Some of the issues highlighted were the unclear and complex state tax policy, rising business operation costs, a shortage of qualified employees, and the unregulated legal status of young workers.

A representative of the Ostrowiec CECH also participated, emphasizing the importance of organizations that bring local entrepreneurs together. Such organizations provide support and assistance to entrepreneurs, especially those entering the market and starting businesses. They also serve as a group that can collaborate with local authorities to assess infrastructure, investment, and legal ideas that promote the development of Ostrowiec's entrepreneurship. A particularly important aspect is an appropriate education system that considers the local labor market's needs and adequately prepares young people for their roles as employees or future entrepreneurs.

The consultations proved to be a highly substantive meeting, and many interesting insights will be included in the improved and extended version of the OPWP project.

The recruitment for candidates started on September 11 and will continue until September 25.  Any individual who has turned 13 years old but has not reached 19 years old on the day of the elections, resides in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, and is pursuing education can be a candidate for the council. You can submit your candidacy electronically through the platform for the Youth City Council of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski: mrm.um.ostrowiec.pl. Along with your application, you need to attach a list of support signed by at least 20 individuals between the ages of 13 and 21 who live in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. Today, at 1 PM, there will be a training and informational meeting for interested students and their guardians at the Ostrowiecki Browar Kultury.  Information about this event has been sent to all educational institutions located in the city. - The Youth City Council is not just a playground for council members; the youth's voice is highly significant. It is a priority for the city to ensure that young people want to stay here and return to the city after completing their studies. The goal is for young people to freely express their needs and closely collaborate with both the City Council and the municipal administration, as emphasized by Vice Mayor Artur Łakomiec.

Starting from September 4, 2023, you can register for the 2nd edition of the Academy for Young Entrepreneurs! The number of spots is limited, so those interested in participating in thew Academy for Young Entrepreneurs should register as soon as possible! The Academy is organized by the Local Development Center, and the Academy of Applied Sciences is the project executor. 

IMPORTANT: The recruitment for the project is conducted by the Academy of Applied Sciences.

The recruitment documents can be found at the following link:  https://goluchowski.edu.pl/akademia-mlodego-przedsiebiorcy 

For more information, please refer to the poster below. Join us!

The document can be downloaded at the following link: HERE

We also encourage you to submit your comments and suggestions regarding the project through the online form available at the following link: HERE

We are waiting for your applications and comments in the following period:  September 4-11, 2023. 

The program is being prepared as part of the "Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal" project.

In the presence of a delegation from the partner city of Sogndal, a summary of the halfway point of activities within the project “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski — City ReNEWal” was conducted last week. The project is being carried out by the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski local government, funded by a grant of EUR 2,974,766 from Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway under the EEA Funds. The project aims to improve the lives of residents of all ages by achieving various changes in the city’s socio-economic development, and in the sphere of local public administration.

There are numerous initiated and already completed tasks within the scope of the “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski — City ReNEWal” project. Based on these funds, the development of the Ostrowiec Entrepreneurship Support Program is planned, alongside the establishment of the Ostrowiec Education and Entrepreneurial Integrator, including the acquisition of necessary equipment (the design phase has been completed, and the task is now in the contractor selection phase). The completion of the Modern Junior Academy by the partner institution PCK and the municipality, along with equipment procurement, has been accomplished. Additionally, an Educational-Entrepreneurial Program for the Ostrowiec Education and Entrepreneurial Integrator and a School Development Program have been prepared. The first stage of the Young Entrepreneur Academy has been concluded. The ongoing task involves fostering entrepreneurial attitudes among adult residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. The creation of an Ecological Education Program for the city of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski has been finalized. By the end of October 2023, playgrounds will be equipped with facilities for use by people with disabilities, and educational stations for waste segregation will be installed.   In September, an air quality measurement device is set to be installed on the City Hall building, providing Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski residents with access to air quality information.  The needs of Ostrowiec residents regarding the development of cycling transportation within the city were identified through social consultations. The implementation of the component “I am an Ostrowiec Resident – Documenting and Reintroducing Elements of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Identity” is currently underway. “Ostrowiec Legends” have been published, including a city monograph and a comic. Norwegian funds have contributed to the creation of OstraKarta, the Resident’s Portal (encompassing activities such as participatory budgeting, consultations, service centers, Youth City Council, Resident Card, Transport Card, among others), as well as the expansion of the city's server room. 

Tender procedures are also in progress for tasks related to accessibility in public utility buildings (PP No. 11, PP No. 12, PP No. 19, Social Welfare Center) and public spaces (Armii Krajowej, Szymanowskiego, Dąbrowskiej, Kopernika). This is only a portion of the tasks within the “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski — City ReNEWal” project.

- We highly value our collaboration with our Norwegian partner, the Songdal municipality, stated Deputy Mayor Artur Łakomiec during the concluding conference.  Our numerous online discussions coupled with knowledge exchange are meticulously analyzed by us.  We observe, admire, and learn, as Songdal is a city where 40 percent of residents are young individuals. 

During the task realization meeting from the Norwegian side, Ingrid Kristiansen and Torkjel Solbraa from the Development Department of the Songdal Municipality shared their insights. Progress of the project was discussed by  Dominik Smoliński, Head of the Planning and Development Department of the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski City Hall, Łukasz Kot and Ewa Mochul-Zwolińska from the Local Development Center, Beata Barska-Jagiełło from PCK, as well as Artur Majcher, Head of the Investment Department of the City Hall, and participants of the Youth City Council Academy. 

Expressions of gratitude to the Norwegian guests were extended by Agnieszka Rogalińska, President of the Local Development Center. 

The project “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal” is financed by EEA and Norway Grants and the state budget for the years 2014 – 2021. The current value of the project is PLN 20,816,281.00, with funding of PLN 17,267,478.94. 

We invite you to check out the audiobook: “Baśnie i legendy dawnego Ostrowca” (“Fairytales and Legends of old Ostrowiec”) by Wojciech Kotasiak. 

Tales and Legends of Old Ostrowiec - Baśnie i legendy dawnego Ostrowca

Chapter 1: Baśń o Bolku z Ostrowa

Chapter 2: Baśń o dwóch braciach  

Chapter 3: Dobry uczynek Benedykta

Chapter 4: Królewski pierścień 

Chapter 5: Historia o czerwonym kurze

Chapter 6: Kuźnik Bartłomiej

Chapter 7: Powstańczy proporzec

Chapter 8: Baśń o pięknej Elżbietce

Chapter 9: Tajemniczy gość

Chapter 10: Dziwna przygoda Juliana

Janusz Wojciech Kotasiak was born in 1938 in Jeleniec, but was raised and educated in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. He was an art historian and graduated in museology from the University of Warsaw. Long-time director of the Historical and Archaeological Museum in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski and Chairman of the City Council for two terms.

In March 2020, the City Council, where he had served for so many years, awarded him the title of Honorary Citizen of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. Janusz Wojciech Kotasiak was the co-author of the historical monograph of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski from 1991 and the editor of the subsequent jubilee edition from 1997. In 2006, he wrote the aforementioned "Baśnie i legendy dawnego Ostrowca” [Tales and Legends of Old Ostrowiec], which was illustrated by Tadeusz Szypowski, an artist from Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski.

The meeting was attended on behalf of the Mayor by Chairwoman of the City Council, Irena Renduda-Dudek, Deputy Head of the Planning and Development Department, Tomasz Gębka, Councilman Andrzej Broda on behalf of the Poviat Starosty in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, Wojciech Kotasiak's daughter – Monika Kotasiak-Wójcik – along with her family, as well as by friends and acquaintances of the author, and all those interested in the meeting. 

We highly value your input and would like to extend a warm invitation for you to actively participate in these consultations. Our goal is to ensure that the new recreational oasis aligns with the needs and expectations of the local community.

We encourage your active engagement in the social consultations and kindly ask you to spread this message to maximize the opportunity for as many individuals as possible to share their opinions.  Together, we can create a magical place for relaxation.

The consultations will be held from 25 July to 6 August 2023. Information about the consultations and the questionnaire can be found on the website of the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski City Hall https://konsultacje.um.ostrowiec.pl/ 

Let's join forces to create a place that will please locals and attract tourists from afar!

There is just over a week left to submit your ideas for the renewed concept of the Civic Budget of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. Over the past month, the city government has been trying to convince residents that it is worth realizing their ideas for the city in this way. - “Applications can still be submitted in paper form by downloading the appropriate form from the website boos.um.ostrowiec.pl or by creating a personalized account at the same address and filling out the application online”, as emphasized by Tomasz Gębka, the Deputy Head of the Planning and Development Department at the City Office and the Coordinator of the Civic Budget. The online submission functionality seems to be very attractive because you can save your project as a draft before sending it and make changes at any time. However, it is important to remember that the final deadline is at the end of July. Regardless of whether you submit the application electronically or in paper form, you need to attach 20 signatures of individuals who support your idea. At present, most of the draft applications are saved on the platform, and in the last week, reminders will be sent to those who prepared them, emphasizing that to be considered for voting, they must be finally submitted, either through the website or in paper form at the City Hall.

We can now submit applications for the 2024 Civic Budget of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski.  A total of 750,000 Polish zlotys will be allocated for residents' ideas. The proposals can cover both investment and non-investment projects. One way to submit your ideas is through the special website https://boos.um.ostrowiec.pl. Applications for the Civic Budget can be submitted both electronically and in paper form. For electronic submission, you need to create an account on the website boos.um.ostrowiec.pl, which will allow you to prepare a complete application and send it through the platform. There is also the option of submitting a paper application. You can download the form from the same website, fill it out, and send it to the city office or submit it in person at the Client Service Office. The application period is 31 days,  ending on July 31 at 23:59, according to Vice Mayor Dominik Smoliński, who provided this information a day before the budget launch. The maximum amounts vary depending on the type of project.

The entire Civic Budget for 2024 is 750,000 zlotys, with a maximum value of 300,000 zlotys for one investment project and 75,000 zlotys for one non-investment project. Residents can submit any number of applications to the Civic Budget as long as they meet all the conditions outlined in the resolution. 

The visit was the first of three planned under the “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski — City ReNEWal” project. The trip was an opportunity for a number of effective meetings with, among others, the authorities and representatives of the Sogndal Municipality, an opportunity to exchange experiences and observe the solutions used in the city of Sogndal in the fields of education, sports culture and business development. Mutual declarations of cooperation and joint development of the course of further visits and new ventures, including the visit of Sogndal representatives to Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, in accordance with bilateral agreement No. 1/2022 dated 31 May 2022, became an important element. 

The delegation had the opportunity to visit the campus and the university operating in the Municipality. The sports infrastructure in the town of Sogndal was toured. Campus Sogndal is a great combination of business, sports and education within a single joint campus. During their 2-day stay in Sogndal, they visited several schools and kindergartens, learned about the education system as well as the methods of working with people at risk of social exclusion. 

Between June 19th and 21st, 2023, training meetings regarding the Civic Budget (Budżet Obywatelski) were organized in most educational institutions in Ostrowiec. These meetings aimed to present the functionalities of the website www.boos.um.ostrowiec.pl, which is used for submitting proposals and voting for projects to be included in the Ostrowiec participatory budget.

The trainings were conducted to highlight two important new features that have been added to the Civic Budget: the option of online voting and the opportunity for minors to fully participate in the program with the consent of their parents or legal guardians.

Each meeting featured a presentation showing examples of civic budget implementations and step-by-step instructions on how to set up an account on the website and how to later submit the application itself.

Co-determination of public funds is an important part of acquiring civic competence among local communities. The locally implemented civic budget project is part of a larger campaign to bring residents closer to local government issues. To this end, the resident portal www.portal.um.ostrowiec.plhas been launched, which also includes other functionalities such as a consultation section for submissions/interventions to City Hall, the Youth City Council, among others.

The trainings were initiated with a meeting with trios from school councils along with their supervisors, which was conducted by Deputy Mayor Dominik Smolinski, and were carried out at the schools by Deputy Head of the Planning and Development Department Tomasz Gebka and Planning and Development Department Inspector Adrian Murdza.

These requirements are outlined in the Statute of the Youth City Council of the City of Ostrowiec Swietokrzyski, which sets out the necessary rules for the operation of the Youth City Council, including:

• the tasks carried out by the Youth City Council,
• the number, procedure and criteria for the election of Councilors of the Youth City Council,
• the rights and duties of the Councilor of the Youth City Council,
• the rules for convening sessions, commissions and the election of the Presidium, 
• rules for the appointment and dismissal of the supervisor, 
• matters related to the service of the Youth City Council and reimbursement of costs of participation 
  in meetings and events.

The draft Statute of the Youth Council of the City of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski was subjected to consultations (open meetings, collection of oral comments, collection of comments in paper and electronic form) with residents, including student governments of educational institutions from the city and non-governmental organizations operating in the municipality.

The new edition of the civic budget envisages an increased pool of funds (PLN 750,000.00), carrying out the entire consultation mode, among other things, electronically via a dedicated platform, and allowing minors to actively participate with the consent of their parents or guardians. The rules were subjected to consultations with residents (open meetings, collection of oral comments, collection of comments in paper and electronic form). The organization of the civic budget in the formula proposed in the Resolution of the City Council should lead to an increase in interest in this form of participation, an increase in the number of voters and applications that will be allowed in the vote. It will also enable people of all ages to co-determine the development of the city and contribute to a better awareness of the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Commune's own tasks among the city's residents.

Employees of the Department of Planning and Development have been working since the beginning of 2023 to get the city's youth involved. During the meeting, teenagers actively asked questions and led discussions in which they proposed original solutions for the upcoming participatory process. The turnout of young people at the meeting was surprising. It turns out that Ostrowiec's youth want to have an impact on the future of their little homeland and see the potential in introducing civic solutions in the city.

Deputy Mayor of the City of Ostrowiec Swietokrzyski Artur Łakomiec spoke about the idea of getting young residents involved.

Getting young people involved in discussions about the form of the Civic Budget will bring fresh and bold ideas to the program. Thanks to the increase in the budget, we are greatly expanding the possibilities in this regard. I think there will be many positive surprises in the current edition of the Civic Budget, which I wish for myself and for you," said the vice mayor. 

During the meeting, three operational youth groups emerged. The first, with the help of an instructor from the Bureau of Artistic Exhibitions Ms. Agnieszka Gawot, will design advertising and informational materials. The second group will prepare video footage and record radio programmes. The third group, meanwhile, is made up of students from school student councils, who, in cooperation with their council supervisors, will organize informational meetings during teacher-parent meetings at their schools. The youngsters proposed to work together with City Hall staff to prepare posters for bus stops, badges, flyers with instructions on how to submit a project, a civic budget logo, design a sweatshirt with the BOOŚ logo for people promoting the budget and project applicants, instructional videos that would be broadcast on public transportation buses, social media and television. 

The trip began with a visit to the "Magia Karmelu in Kielce where, during the workshop, the participants had the opportunity to witness the traditional and unchanged method of creating caramel products that have been practiced for centuries. They learned about the entire process, starting from pouring hot caramel onto a stone table, shaping and coloring the sweets, to packaging the final product. Each caramel is a small handicraft with a unique flavor and a unique design. 

At the end of the workshop, all the participants made their own large lollipop and received a "Diploma of Caramel Maker". The workshop was a perfect combination of learning and fun.

Then, at the Leonardo da Vinci Science Center in Podzamcze, the participants saw the multimedia exhibition "Man-an Extraordinary Machine," which made them aware of how complex and demanding the human body is. Engaging stations set up at the center allowed the participants to learn through personal experiences and draw conclusions. 

At the end of the exhausting day, the participants headed to the Da Vinci restaurant located in the 17th century Manor House of the Chęciny Starostes, which is surrounded by ponds and a beautiful Italian garden, as well as the Jan III Sobieski Triumphal Gate. In such a picturesque natural setting, they enjoyed a meal before heading back home. 

The trip was a prize for winning first place in the Ostrowiec Festival of Creativity and was organized within the framework of the Academy of Modern Junior which is part of the “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal” project benefiting from a grant of EUR 2,974,766 received from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway under the EEA Funds.

The trip was organized by the Space for Social and Cultural Initiatives Association, which is a partner for the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski City Hall in the project "Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal." Within the framework of this project, the association is carrying out a project entitled Youth City Council Academy.

“Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal” benefits from a grant of EUR 2,974,766 received from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway under the EEA grants. The project aims to improve the lives of residents of all ages by achieving various changes in the city’s socio-economic development, and in the sphere of local public administration.

The study tour was intended for participants of the Youth City Council Academy and chaperones. The purpose of the trip was to meet with the active Youth City Council of Gdynia. The site was chosen based on the recommendations of 3 independent experts, who indicated the Youth City Council in Gdynia as a good example of a well-functioning council.

In Gdynia, Janek, Karol, Kuba and Damian, together with Mrs. Zofia Gawlik, gave us an extremely kind and warm reception, presented their most important assumptions, told us what their tasks look like the behind-the-scenes. Of course, there was no shortage of questions from the extremely ambitious group from Ostrowiec Swietokrzyski, Youth City Council Academy participants until the very end of the meeting asked the youth from Gdynia both about organizational matters concerning the Council, but also about their most interesting experiences. Any topics raised at the meeting were already the main topic of conversation to be heard among the youth during the trip itself. Important conclusions from the conversation with representatives of the Gdynia Youth City Council include that members of the Youth City Council must study in the city (they do not have to be residents of the city), that it is worth to react to what is happening in society locally and take initiatives, and that it is extremely important to have a well-thought-out communication plan in order to always be able to reach each student individually in each school.

The meeting was complemented by a workshop block, during which an extremely important problem that can be encountered when undertaking any kind of initiative – a decrease in motivation – was raised. Among other things, the young people were able to learn about the need to be able to delegate tasks, to focus on quality rather than quantity of initiatives and to focus on concrete actions, and that crises are inevitable, but they should not be feared, and a solution should always be sought.

During the trip, the young people also had time to strengthen ties and get to know each other even better while visiting, among other things: the Gdynia Aquarium and Orłowski Cliff, or the beautiful city of Gdańsk.

On April 20-22, 2023, a study tour to Gdynia was organized as part of the project entitled "Youth City Council Academy" which is part of the project "Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal. The trip was organized by the Space for Social and Cultural Initiatives Association, which is a partner for the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski City Hall in the project "Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal." Within the framework of this project, the association is carrying out a project entitled Youth City Council Academy. 

The event was attended by Deputy Mayor Artur Łakomiec on behalf of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Mayor Jarosław Górczyński.

- “It is impossible to point out the best performance here. All those who performed on stage today and participated in the workshop are winners. What is important is not what material things you won at this festival, but what you learned during the year of training, namely creativity and cooperation. The ability to work as a team is important from the perspective of the pandemic and isolation for our children. I offer my congratulations and thanks to the organizers, children, teachers and parents.” - said Deputy Mayor Artur Łakomiec.

During the festival, the stage of the multifunctional hall of the Ostrowiec Culture Brewery hosted 16 teams coming from 8 elementary schools – a total of 166 students from Ostrowiec elementary schools and 26 supervisors. Each team had to present scenes lasting 6 minutes, in which acting skills were not enough. Participants were tasked with preparing costumes and stage decorations on their own. In addition, each group was given a special surprise task, which required the youngsters' cooperation skills and creativity. The unlimited imagination of the pupils of the Ostrowiec elementary schools once again did not disappoint and the audience witnessed colorful and original performances.

The event was co-financed by the so-called Norwegian funds under the project “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski - miasta OdNowa,” coordinated by Deputy Mayor of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, Dominik Smolinski.

- “Classes were conducted primarily in creativity using equipment that we also managed to purchase last year. These included robots, sewing machines, and all sorts of gadgets to stimulate creativity in children and young people.”- noted Deputy Mayor Dominik Smolinski.

Beata Barska-Jagiello – coordinator of the event from the District Branch of the Polish Red Cross in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – also commented on the event:

-”The Ostrowiec Festival of Creativity” was a fantastic journey into the depths of children's imagination, a major event oriented towards creative solutions, the creation of innovative projects and the development of many different competencies among both students and teachers. Thanks to today's presentations, we were able to see that in Ostrowiec’s schools, in addition to the implementation of the core curriculum, teachers also take on other challenges and care about stimulating creative thinking and creativity as a 21st century competence, and place great emphasis on the independence of the young person. Even at first glance, it is clear that today's presentations are the results of many days of work by the entire team, rather than a one-time activity. The preparation of this project allowed the youths to integrate, come together as a team, and strengthened their belief that together they can achieve a lot.” - 

All “actors” were rewarded with gifts, while the winners of the first place as a prize will go on a trip to the Leonardo da Vinci Center in Podzamcze, and the second and third places will take part in the Pizzerman Junior workshops, which will be held at Góralska Bacówka. The school that won first place in two age groups (grades I-III and grades IV-VIII) turned out to be Public Elementary School No. 14.

“Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski - miasta OdNowa” (in English: “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal”) benefits from a grant of EUR 2,974,766 received from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway under the EEA grants. The project aims to improve the lives of residents of all ages by achieving various changes in the city’s socio-economic development, and in the sphere of local public administration.

During the meeting, the youngsters showered the guests with dozens of questions on the subject of the functioning of local government. Chairwoman Irena Renduda – Dudek talked about how to maintain discipline at sessions, while chairman Mariusz Pasternak taught patience and presented the foundation of local government work, which is first and foremost to serve the people, the residents you represent. The youngsters' questions also addressed the stress of responsibility and decision-making. Councilwoman Agnieszka Rogalinska described her experience here. Many of the questions that followed were about elections and the functioning of the Youth City Council. It is worth mentioning at this point that both the new edition of the Civic Budget and the Youth City Council were initiated last year by Mayor Jarosław Górczynski.

“Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski - miasta OdNowa” (in English: “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal”) benefits from a grant of EUR 2,974,766 received from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway under the EEA grants. The project aims to improve the lives of residents of all ages by achieving various changes in the city’s socio-economic development, and in the sphere of local public administration.

The event was attended by Deputy Mayor Artur Łakomiec on behalf of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Mayor Jarosław Górczyński.

“Involving young people in discussions on the development of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski is an important initiative. One day we will hand over to the younger generation the decision-making process regarding the future of our city. Their voice is an important signal to us about proposals for changes friendly to the youth of Ostrowiec,” said the Deputy Mayor.

This time, young Ostrowians debated around the thesis “Ostrowiec Swietokrzyski – a good place to live and a reason to return.” Such a thesis caught the attention of an audience of more than 100 people gathered in the multifunctional hall of the Ostrowiec Culture Brewery. Participants in workshops organized as part of the project played the role of speakers. The proposition side consisted of: Izabela Kaszuba (14th State Primary School Counselor), Wiktoria Przepiórka (5th State Primary School), Julia Szymańska (1st High School), Armando Malesza (Stanisław Konarski High School), Mateusz Wziątek (3rd THM School Complex). The opposition side consisted of: Martyna Kacała (3rd THM School Complex), Łukasz Łoboda (1st School Complex), Mieczysław Piwowarski (retired), Weronika Warelis (5th State Primary School) and Aleksandra Kwapisz (1st High School).

The oxford debate was aimed at increasing knowledge around a given topic. The concluded debate showed directions for development so that Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski can become a good place for most to live and a reason to return. According to the experts, the best speaker in the debate was Armando Malesza from the Stanisław Konarski Private High School. The debate was led by Ms. Anna Pytlakowska in the role of marshal, accompanied by Klaudia Pająk (1st STate Primary School) in the role of secretary.

“Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski - miasta OdNowa” (in English: “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal”) benefits from a grant of EUR 2,974,766 received from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway under the EEA grants. The project aims to improve the lives of residents of all ages by achieving various changes in the city’s socio-economic development, and in the sphere of local public administration.

The social consultations regarding the development of methodologies and standards for conducting social consultations, as well as the Regulations of the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Civic Budget, are now behind us. The Citizens' Budget will return to the public life of our city this year. The meeting with the residents of Ostrowiec, organized by the City Office, took place in the building of the Social Activity Zone at the Ostrowiecki Browar Kultury. The Civic Budget has received significant attention and involvement from the residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski in the past. The current principles of the Civic Budget involve the participation of Ostrowiec residents in identifying investment tasks in the urban space and so-called "soft tasks" related to culture and sports, among others. This year, it was decided to involve the city's residents in designing the next edition of the Civic Budget. During the discussions, many suggestions were made about the future of the project. These included proposals for creating an averaged price list as assistance for applicants, which would include, for example, the cost estimation for installing a single street lamp or building a sidewalk segment. Requests were made for the creation of a map divided into municipal and county areas, to designate lands suitable for investment. Suggestions included dividing the budget into youth and green categories and allowing one person to submit two proposals, one for an investment project and one for a non-investment project. There was also a need expressed for authorial supervision over the applicant's project. These consultations took place within the "Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal" project, funded through the Financial Mechanism EOG 2014-2021.

The consultations were conducted in small groups, which provided an opportunity for each participant to present his or her opinion and had a very positive effect on the level of discussion. The workshops were conducted by employees of ATMOTERM S.A., a company commissioned by the Municipality to prepare the Program in question, and employees of the City Hall in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. A total of 63 people participated in the workshops.

We would like to thank all workshop participants for sharing their experience and substantive knowledge. Commitment, creative approach to the issues discussed and willingness to cooperate allowed to collect extensive substantive material, which will enable the preparation of a coherent and innovative Environmental Education Program for our city, including a schedule of activities and scenarios, no longer of lessons, as originally envisaged, but of school projects. 

The city's Environmental Education Program will be prepared by the end of June this year. 

Part of the workshops to help create the document "Methodology and standards for conducting the process of social consultation in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski" is behind us. The stationary workshops were held in two rounds – the first was for young people involved in the Youth City Council Academy. The other, in turn, was held for the rest of the city's residents. 

The document, which is being developed as part of the “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski — the City Renewed” project, is to define standards for conducting public consultations with residents, such as in the framework of the city's development strategy, civic budget, or other important investments carried out by the municipal government. It is also an excellent opportunity to involve the residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski in the functioning of the city.

“We want, to involve residents in the life of the city, in co-determination, in expressing opinions on issues we want to discuss with them. I already strongly encourage each of you to participate in the consultations and give us your feedback. I believe that by acting together, strategically and consistently, we can ensure the further development of our city,” says Mayor of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, Jaroslaw Gorczyński."

The city government, in an effort to facilitate access for residents, will also allow consultations to be conducted online. 

We are preparing to launch a special website where such online consultations can also take place, including on the Civic Budget. In order to prepare well for this, we are holding a series of meetings with the residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, who will help us create standards for conducting this type of consultations," said Deputy Head of the Planning and Development Department of the City hall in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Tomasz Gębka.

On March 7, 2023, online meetings were held with representatives of NGOs, as well as with residents of the city of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. 

Once the working version of the document “Methodology and standards for conducting the process of social consultation in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski” has been developed, it will also be subject to consultation with residents. 

The Youth City Council Academy was launched on February 18, 2023. We have 30 wonderful students of schools in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski on board. They are united by their motivation to act and their willingness to devote every next free Saturday to development. Until the end of March, we will meet regularly to perfectly prepare candidates to run in the elections. The Academy was officially opened by special guests; Deputy Mayor of the city Dominik Smoliński, Deputy Head of the Planning and Development Department Tomasz Gębka and coordinator of the project Katarzyna Cukierska. Already during the first conversation, specific directions for the Youth City Council’s actions were given. A very interesting discussion revolved around young people's motivations as to why they joined the project. After the first meeting of young people with representatives of the local government of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, our guests are impressed with the participants of the Academy and the students say that they want to take part in meetings with such guests and in such discussions more often.  There will be many more reasons to meet and talk. More Oxford-style debates as well as meetings with experts and inspiring people are ahead of us. If you are interested in participating in the project, please contact the Association Space for Social and Cultural Initiatives (Stowarzyszenie Przestrzeń Inicjatyw Społeczno-Kulturalnych PISK) via email stowarzyszeniepisk@gmail.com or directly with coordinator Katarzyna Cukierska at 663959888. We encourage you to follow our FB profile https://www.facebook.com/MRMOdNowa, where information from the life of the Academy is posted on a regular basis. 

And what is in store for us in the near future?

• Next workshops within the Academy are scheduled for next Saturday, this time on the topic of interpersonal communication.
• We are waiting until Thursday to receive applications from high school students to participate in the workshop and the Oxford-style debate. The next debate will be held on March 1, 2023 at 10:00 am at Technikum Hutniczo Mechaniczne (the Metallurgical and Mechanical Technical School), at ul. Sandomierska 2.
• Workshops on the Oxford-style debate for adult residents of our city are planned for March 3 and 4 – we are waiting for applications. An Oxford-style debate with participation of adults will be held on March 6 at the cultural center in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski “Ostrowiecki Browar Kultury”. 
• We are waiting for submissions for the intergenerational debate until March 28. Preparatory workshops will be held on March 31 and April 1. Without wasting time, we would like to already invite you to the intergenerational debate. The final Oxford-style debate will be held on April 4, 2023 at the cultural center in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski “Ostrowiecki Browar Kultury”. 

In the building of the educational and pre-school complex Zespół Edukacyjno-Przedszkolny Szkoły z Pasją im. Elżbiety Sołtys, an Oxford debate took place as part of the Youth City Council Academy, implemented under the project “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski — the City Renewed", co-financed by Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway under the EEA grants. It marks the launch of a series of four debates, with the participants of the first being elementary school students, the second — high school students, the third — adults, while the fourth will be an intergenerational debate. Their role is to prepare the younger generation of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski citizens for the Youth City Council elections. Eighteen elementary school students took part in the first debate. Its thesis was contained in the sentence: "The development of civil society depends on the youth."

The first debate was attended by Deputy Mayor Artur Łakomiec on behalf of the Mayor of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Jarosław Górczynski.

“I am glad to be here with you. Today's debate is a valuable experience that should be applied to our daily lives. It has always been my view in private and public life that it is not the argument of strength that matters, but the strength of the argument. In recent years, the political space has lacked precisely this element of dialogue and solid argumentation. Therefore, I wish the participants in the debate, on behalf of the Mayor and myself, a fruitful discussion within the framework of the Youth City Council Academy,” the Deputy Mayor said at the meeting.

Civic workshops were held in twenty-two schools in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski by the end of December 2022. This first stage was the beginning of building a strong foundation for the Youth Council of the City of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. Usually, each school reported more students willing to attend than the fifteen anticipated spots for the workshop. Methods of active work with students were used during the sessions. Educational games were used to train the process of cooperation, decision-making and construction of substantive statements. The methodology was directed at strengthening the young person's sense of influence on the reality around us.

Enrollment for the final stage of the Youth City Council Academy will begin soon. After the winter break, thirty candidates for the Youth City Council will receive further training. The students' interest exceeded the organizers' expectations. Elections for the Youth City Council will be held later this school year.

The “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski — the City Renewed” project (orig. Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski — miasta OdNowa), implemented as part of the “Local Development” Program, envisages strategic, integrated and comprehensive management of the city, aimed at improving the situation of its residents in such areas as broadly understood education, environmental protection and support for the local job market and entrepreneurship. The project will also aim to raise the level of competence, quality of provided services and responsibility of the local administration, contributing to building trust of the residents towards local authorities as institutions administering local development.

On the basis of social surveys among the residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, the “Methodology and standards for conducting the process of social consultation in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski” will be developed. In this way, the city will stimulate active and engaged residents who will co-decide on key issues for the self-government community. Such an informed community will also have the advantage of more involved cooperation with the City Hall.

"Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski - miasta OdNowa” (in English: “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal”) benefits from a grant of EUR 2,974,766 received from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway under the EEA grants. The project aims to improve the lives of residents of all ages by achieving various changes in the city’s socio-economic development, and in the local sphere.

The goal of the overall project is:

– developing creativity and creative thinking,

– training in teamwork and effective communication,

– developing skills and abilities in the sciences and humanities,

– developing the ability to present own work and that of the whole team,

– improving teachers' competences in terms of innovations and creative methods

Creativity is not the domain of a select few, marked geniuses. Everyone has that element in them. Everyone has the potential to create new things. However, not many have the courage to think differently, which is why I am glad that such workshops to stimulate creativity are held in our city – says Mayor Jarosław Górczyński. 

The workshop are a perfect introduction to the development of creativity in Ostrowiec-based schools. It turned out that participation in the project “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – miasto OdNowa” (in English: “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal") financed from the funds of the EEA Financial Mechanism 2014-2021, implemented in partnership with the Leader – the Municipality of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – the project “Modern Junior Academy” is not only a large dose of knowledge but also great fun.

Topics for StartUp Faculty (elementary school students):

• The basics of entrepreneurship
• Being entrepreneurial=being a leader
• Smart spending of pocket money, or how to manage money
• Setting and achieving goals
• Creative thinking and action
• Effective communication – understand and be understood
• I – an active citizen
• Interpersonal communication

Total: 24 45-minute lessons

Topics for LevelUp Faculty (high school students):

• Information in business
• Business plan
• Business networking
• Setting up a sole proprietorship
• Building a brand in the modern economy
• Legal forms of business
• Strategy in business
• Promotion and advertising in business

Total: 24 45-minute lessons

As part of the Academy for Young Entrepreneurs, there will be three meetings at each Faculty with business theoreticians and practitioners of a total of 6 45-minute lessons (2 45-minute lessons per meeting per Faculty).

Topics of meetings at the StartUp Faculty:

• It started with an idea
• Are family pictures safer than a family business?
• Perhaps money doesn't make happiness, but makes it easier to open a business

Topics of meetings at the LevelUp Faculty:

• Opportunities and threats in the local and global markets
• Business destined to innovate
• Socially responsible business

The Academy for Young Entrepreneurs will include study visits to local entrepreneurs and technology/science and technology parks. Each student will take part in one visit to an entrepreneur (within Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski) and one field trip visit to a technology park.

Activities organized under the Academy are extracurricular and free of charge. Each Faculty will have 30 students. A total of 60 students will participate in the first edition. Each of them will receive teaching materials, including a student book, where credits from classes will be entered. Students will learn in groups of 10 (3 groups in each Faculty). Each student, in order to graduate from the Academy, will be required to write a graduate thesis. The best graduate theses will be awarded.

Two editions of the Academy for Young Entrepreneurs are planned: for the 2022/2023 academic year and the 2023/2024 academic year. The first edition will begin in December 2022 and end in June 2023, and the second edition will begin in September/October 2023 and end in February/March 2024.

The Inauguration Ceremony for the 2022/2023 academic year of the Academy for Young Entrepreneurs was held on December 5, 2022. On behalf of the Host – President of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Jarosław Górczyński, the Inauguration was opened by Vice President Dominik Smoliński. He presented the most important assumptions for the implementation of the task and pointed out the importance of educating young people about the economy and entrepreneurship. The floor was then taken by Staroste Marzena Dębniak, who thanked for the inclusion of young people studying in the public high schools in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski in the task being carried out. Director of the Center for Local Development Agnieszka Rogalińska, who coordinates the implementation of the task, pointed out how important creative thinking, going beyond the beaten path and realizing one's dreams are in the development of young people. She also thanked the staff of the Investor and Entrepreneurship Services Department for their efforts in preparing and implementing the Academy for Young Entrepreneurs. The last to speak was Agnieszka Winiarczyk, Chancellor of the Józef Gołuchowski Academy of Applied Sciences [Akademia Nauk Stosowanych im. Józefa Gołuchowskiego], who is the Contractor of the activities to be carried out within the framework of the Academy. She assured that they will do their best to make the classes attractive to students and contribute to their development.

After speeches by the Host and invited guests, Vice President Dominik Smoliński solemnly declared the 2022/2023 academic year of the Academy for Young Entrepreneurs open. Then, together with Staroste Marzena Dębniak, he presented the students with their student books.

In the following part, the floor was taken by Dominika Lipka, project coordinator on behalf of the Academy of Applied Sciences, who briefly presented information on the workshops and lectures that will be conducted as part of the Academy for Young Entrepreneurs. After this speech, it was time to deliver the keynote lecture, titled “From startup to super-unicorn: model success of a US company using Elon Musk's SpaceX as an example”, by dr Przemysław Furgacz, PhD. It was a very interesting end to the inauguration of the Academy for Young Entrepreneurs.

We wish good luck to all the students of the Academy for Young Entrepreneurs!

Accordingly, five debates were held on 8-9 November 2022 with various groups of stakeholders, who discussed the current, as well as the future shape and scope of environmental education in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski.

The debates were attended by a total of 136 people – representatives of the following groups of stakeholders of the Environmental Education Program, who are taking, or may take in the future, actions to shape pro-environmental attitudes of the residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, i.e.:

• principals of educational institutions – kindergartens, primary school and secondary schools,
• school environmental education coordinators;
• primary school teachers of grades 4-8, secondary school teachers, university lecturers;
• representatives of NGOs, youth leaders from secondary schools, media representatives;
• representatives of municipal and district units, as well as representatives of multifamily property managers;
• kindergarten teachers, primary school teachers of grades 1-3.

The discussion covered the following topics: the scope of environmental education carried out in the city, educational methods and channels, the preparation of urban space for shaping pro-environmental attitudes of the residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski and the eco-educational potential of our city.

We would like to thank you for attending the meetings in such large numbers and engaging in discussions, which testify to your concern for the state of the environment. Your vote will allow us to make an accurate diagnosis, which will consequently have a significant impact on what environmental education in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski will look like in the coming years.

In connection with the ongoing work on the preparation of the document titled “Environmental Education Program for the city of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski until 2030”, as part of the implementation of the task titled: “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal” implemented within the framework of the Local Development Program, from the funds of the MF EEA 2014-2021, on the basis of contract No. 15/2021/RL, a survey of the environmental awareness of teachers, including awareness of the responsibility for shaping pro-environmental attitudes among children and young people, has been conducted recently. 

 The state of teachers' environmental awareness was analyzed by four thematic blocks: protection of the atmosphere, protection and sustainable management of water resources, rational waste management, and protection of biodiversity and ecosystem services.

The survey was conducted by a professional team of employees of ATMOTERM SA. which is working on the preparation of the aforementioned Program on behalf of the Municipality.

The survey took the form of a 15-minute, individual and completely anonymous meeting with teachers of educational institutions in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, i.e. eight public kindergartens, eight public elementary schools, high school Liceum Ogólnokształcące nr I im. Stanisława Staszica in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, high school Liceum Ogólnokształcące nr III im. Władysława Broniewskiego in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski as well as lecturers of the university Akademia Nauk Stosowanych im. Józefa Gołuchowskiego in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski.

The group of teachers included in the survey was diverse in terms of subject taught, teaching level and professional experience. In total, more than 100 people were covered by the survey.

The meetings were very positively evaluated by our Contractor. The consultants were warmly welcomed in the educational institutions in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, and they were impressed by the openness, willingness to cooperate and commitment of the management and teachers. In addition, the content value of the meetings was highly rated. The conclusions of this survey will provide excellent material for the development of the city's eco-education potential and a schedule for effective environmental education activities.

We would like to thank the directors of the educational institutions in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, as well as the rector of the university Akademia Nauk Stosowanych im. Józefa Gołuchowskiego in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski for making the survey possible, and the teaching staff and lecturers for their willingness to participate in the survey in question.

As part of the work on preparing the Environmental Education Program for the city of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski until 2030, the Municipality of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski has launched a survey of environmental awareness of residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, including young people over the age of 12.

The study, in the form of paper surveys, was launched on September 25, 2022, during an environmental event titled “CZY DALEKO NAM DO EKO?” (Eng.: "ARE WE FAR FROM BEING ECO?”), which aimed to make residents of our city aware that their daily consumer choices and lifestyles affect the state of the environment around us, and that living in the spirit of ECO is easier than we think.

Together with residents, we want to reflect on our attitudes and approach towards environmentally friendly behavior. We want to do an “ecological examination of conscience”, do we actually care about our environment, or perhaps convenience, imprudence or lack of faith in the sense of our independent action is an excuse for the fact that we do very little or almost nothing?

The large turnout at the event and the active participation of residents – children, young people as well as seniors, are encouraging. We are not indifferent to the state of the environment and want to know how we can take care of it.

Residents were eager to fill out a survey on environmental awareness. During the event, we managed to collect nearly 100 surveys. The online survey began on September 30, and more than 700 residents have completed the survey.

Developed surveys of environmental awareness of residents of our city will allow to prepare a schedule of effective and diverse educational activities within the framework of the Environmental Education Program.

The survey conducted as part of the task titled: “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – Miasta OdNowa” (Eng. Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal) implemented within the framework of the Local Development Program, with funds from EEA Grants for 2014–2021, under agreement no. 15/2021/RL.

The first meeting dealt with activities involving the preparation and implementation of educational programs for young people in the field of shaping entrepreneurial attitudes. The meeting was attended by Deputy Mayor of the City of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Dominik Smoliński, principals of schools in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, representatives of Centrum Rozwoju Lokalnego (Eng. Center for Local Development) and employees of the City Hall, Department of Promotion and Public Communication. On the Norwegian side: Ingrid Steine Bortne Sogn- Councillor of the Sogndal City Council, Frederic Jarstadmarkenfrom responsible for implementing programs related to the development of entrepreneurship among children and young people. During the meeting, Polish representatives gave 3 presentations on the subject of taking action to build entrepreneurial attitudes among young residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. The first presentation was given by the Center for Local Development on the outline of the activities it has undertaken and will undertake in the near future in the scope of its statutory activities. It is worth noting that the projects implemented by this unit are carried out under the Norwegian Funds. Another presentation focused on the activities that Publiczna Szkoła Podstawowa nr 14 (Eng. Public Elementary School No. 14) undertakes in the development of economic competence and logical thinking in children and young people. During the presentation, reference was made to the school's flagship math competitions held on a regular basis, organized jointly with the Warsaw University of Technology. The school has also established cooperation with the National Bank of Poland.  Thanks to the implemented program, children are learning to navigate the financial world safely and freely. The last to present from the Polish side was the high school – Zespół Szkół nr 1 (Eng. School Complex No. 1).  The institution places a strong focus on shaping entrepreneurial attitudes among its students.

After presenting the projects implemented by schools in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, the Norwegian side presented its activities in the field of entrepreneurship development. The presentations included a number of practical activities undertaken by the youth, including, for example, sewing eco-friendly bags and selling them, as well as ski racks. Young people often achieve their goals and their ideas have practical applications. A major and important event is the organization of job fairs and meetings between young people and entrepreneurs.

During the second meeting, which focused on modern teaching methods, the Norwegian side developed and presented to principals and representatives of elementary schools in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski the concept of developing local identity among young people through the Minecraft Education platform. The next steps that had been taken to implement this project among the children of Sogndal were presented. It was agreed that this educational game in the form of a competition among children and young people from public and non-public schools will also be organized in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. The Polish side asked a lot of technical questions concerning also other innovations presented.

Moreover, representatives of Sogndal presented a project they are just beginning to implement, involving the study of reading skills among young people, using modern diagnostic methods (laser eye movement analysis). Through their research, they want to strengthen children's ability to read quickly with comprehension.

Sogndal is putting a lot of effort into developing competence among teachers, but also providing them with the right electronic equipment and modern software.

It was also emphasized that children from Sogndal participated in a collaborative book writing project. In connection with this, a proposal was made to talk about the possibility of jointly carrying out part of the “Miasta OD Nowa” project (Eng. "City ReNEWal") concerning the creation of a comic book about the local history.

On the Polish side, all participants present (mainly school principals) presented innovative teaching methods implemented in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, including formative teaching, using augmented reality, youth debates.

Its task is to support people interested in running their own business, by providing, among other things, information on:

• obtaining funds for starting a business,
• how to correctly fill out applications for business funding (applicable in PUP (Eng. District Employment Agency) and when applying for EU funds),
• setting up a one-person business.

Scope of support offered by the Consultation Office:

• Consultations for those interested in starting their own business on setting up and running their own company, the possibility of obtaining start-up funds, as well as assistance in preparing business plans
• A series of training courses aimed at 4 groups of people wishing to run their own business – those interested are asked to submit an application form (download) and read the recruitment regulations (download) for the following courses:

Doświadczeni na Swoim (Eng. Experienced in Self-employment) (people aged 50+) people who find it difficult to find their way in the labor market – 7 editions x 10 people – 70 people;

Młodzi na Swoim (Eng. Young in Self-employment) (people up to 29 years old) – 7 editions x 10 people – 70 people;

Młodzi Rodzice na Swoim (Eng. Young Parents in Self-employment) (for people who want to return to the labor market after a break related to raising a child – for people between 30 and 49 years of age) – 7 editions x 10 people – 70 people;

Seniorzy na Swoim (Eng. Seniors in Self-employment) (for retirees who want to be active and realize themselves professionally also in retirement) – 7 editions x 10 people – 70 people.

• Promotion of the idea of entrepreneurship and running one’s own business entitled “Ostrowczanin na swoim” (Eng. Residents of Ostrowiec in Self-employment) among adult residents of the city of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski.

Information on the rules of using the offer of the Consultation Office for Future Entrepreneurs can be found in the Regulations of the Consultation Office for Future Entrepreneurs.

Questions about the functioning of the Consultation Office for Future Entrepreneurs can also be asked by phone – 41 248 03 70 or by e-mail – sekretariat@crl.ostrowiec.pl.

The Educational & Entrepreneurial Program for the Ostrowiec Integrator of Education and Entrepreneurs is designed to determine what functions the Integrator should perform. Based on the program, modern educational activities will be carried out in the Integrator from the moment of its creation. The School Development Program will include the vision of the educational system in Ostrowiec, based on the diagnosis of needs and expectations of students, teachers, parents, local business which is important for the commune development, taking into account the local social and economic potential. The program should indicate directions and plans for reorganization of the network of primary and secondary schools as well as kindergartens in the commune and the proposed offer of extracurricular and out-of-school activities adequate to the requirements of education and expectations of the labor market, especially those related to specializations of the city and the region.

Both documents will be preceded by the preparation of an educational diagnosis. The purpose of elaboration is to diagnose the situation of education in the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski commune and to identify the most important challenges and potentials for its development. To prepare it, desk research analysis will be used and research will be conducted to determine the state of primary and secondary education in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, to identify key problems and challenges of the sector. The analysis of the foundational data will include an examination of municipal and national data and cross-sectional analyses of expectations about the competencies a school should develop in students.

On September 5, 2022, the first inauguration meeting was held with the Team responsible on the Contractor’s side for the implementation of the task. They discussed how to implement the service in accordance with the approved schedule, defined the information base that will form the basis for further analytical and diagnostic work, and agreed on the principles for involving social partners. Also the scope of social research – quantitative and qualitative – that will be carried out to prepare an educational diagnosis was presented.

President of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Jarosław Górczyński commented on the initiative.

Young people who receive support and tools for community service feel a greater sense of belonging and identification with the city. Through the creation of the Youth City Council, we want to show young people that their voice is heard and we count with their opinion, and recent years have shown us that young people in our city want to get involved in city life and be publicly active. The Youth City Council is a strong representation of young people from Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski and a bridge between their needs and the municipal self-government.

Councillors of the Youth City Council will be able to give opinions on city projects, participate in youth projects and obtain funding under the Norwegian Funds.

The project under discussion consists of the following stages:

Informational meetings in every public and non-public primary and secondary school in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. This will give every student a chance to participate in the project.

Citizenship workshops also held at each school. During these workshops, young people will learn why their voice is very important and what steps they can take to make it heard in the city. Within the framework of debates according to the Oxford principle, young residents will gain knowledge and skills on how to translate the identification of urban space problems into real actions to counter them, with tangible results. The workshops will take place between September 2022 and March 2023.

Four major Oxford-style debates in 2023 with mixed participation of youth and adult residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. Discussions will be inspired by topics chosen directly by residents. During the discussions, participants will have an opportunity to prove themselves as speakers or to participate in the debate as the audience.

Two meetings with inspiring people from Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski.

This is not the only recent project addressed to the younger part of the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski community. The low-cost rental housing program of Ostrowieckie Towarzystwo Budownictwa Społecznego (Eng. Social Housing Association in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski) is to be continued in its current or similar format. Under the program, a tenant cannot be denied tenancy as long as they pay their rent and do not cause social problems.  Another project – Ostrowiecki Integrator Edukacji i Przedsiębiorczych (Eng. Ostrowiec Integrator of Education and Entrepreneurs) – is to help young people decide to start their own business and support them in the first period of running it. Moreover, the announced revitalization of the Ostrowiec Market Square is a response to the expectations of young people for a modern, atmospheric meeting place.

Also the following attended the conference: President of Stowarzyszenie Inicjatyw Społeczno – Gospodarczych (Eng. Association of Socio-Economic Initiatives) Katarzyna Cukierska, Vice-Chairman of the Youth Assembly of the Świętokrzyskie Voivodship Maciej Kwiatkowski and representatives of the youth from Ostrowiec: Eliza Bugajska, Weronika Młynek and Dominika Chmielewska.

“Youth City Council Academy” is implemented within the framework of the project “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – miasta OdNowa” (Eng. Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal) benefiting from funding worth EUR 2,974,766 received from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway under the EEA grants.

The project aims to improve the lives of residents of all ages by achieving various changes in the city's socio-economic development, and in the sphere of local public administration.

The agreement was concluded under the task entitled: “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski — the City Renewed” implemented within the framework of the Local Development Program, with funds from EEA Grants for 2014–2021.

The Environmental Education Program will be a strategic document of the commune to coordinate and plan effective activities and forms of environmental education aimed at different groups of residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. The surveys and analysis performed as part of the program will help resolve which educational activities are effective and the effectiveness of which is only apparent. The Environmental Education Program will identify broadly defined educational (including small-scale investments in eco-education infrastructure), organizational and informational activities that are optimal in terms of cost and efficiency. In addition, the program will involve a wide range of stakeholders in environmental education, who will act in a dual role, i.e., as entities to whom educational activities are directed, but also as entities conducting such activities.

The development and implementation of the program will serve to raise the level of environmental awareness of the residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski in terms of the relationship between the quality of human life and the state of the surrounding environment, including the impact of residents’ daily activities on the quality of this environment.

The Environmental Education Program for the city of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, drawn up under the agreement, is to define the goals and forms of environmental education for the residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, taking into account the specificity of the region, local identity and cultural tradition.

On 12 August 2022, the first working meeting was held online with the Team responsible on the Contractor’s side for the implementation of the task. The schedule for the first stage of work on the Environmental Education Program was discussed, as well as the main implementing assumptions.

In the first stage of work on the document, the following activities were planned:

• diagnosis of the state of ecological awareness of the residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski — quantitative study (PAPI and/or CAWI) on a minimum sample of 300 people (residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski), taking into account the following age groups: adolescents aged 12–15 and 16–19, and adults aged 20–35, 36–55 and over 56;
• diagnosis of the state of environmental awareness (divided into four thematic blocks: protection of the atmosphere, protection and sustainable management of water resources, rational waste management and protection of biodiversity and ecosystem services) and awareness of the responsibility for shaping pro-environmental attitudes by teachers, lecturers, trainers — qualitative study (IDI) on a minimum sample of 100 people;
• analysis of the scope of environmental education and educational methods and channels used by various entities in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, with particular emphasis on educational institutions and NGOs — 5 public debates using representative groups of selected stakeholders,
• analysis with the development of the preparation of urban space for the formation of pro-environmental attitudes of residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski,
• analysis of the facilities of educational institutions for environmental education,
• to determine the eco-educational potential of the city of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski.

One of the tasks implemented within the framework of the project Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal benefiting from funding worth EUR 2,974,766 received from Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway under the EEA grants, is the Youth City Council. The project aims to improve the lives of residents of all ages by achieving various changes in the city’s socio-economic development, and in the sphere of local public administration. This is not the only recent project addressed to the younger part of the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski community. One such initiative is the Ostrowiec Integrator of Education and Entrepreneurs, which focuses on helping young people make decisions about starting their own business and providing support during the initial stages of entrepreneurship.

This is one of the tasks outlined as part of the project "Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal," implemented by the Municipality of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. It is worth noting that our local government ranked fourth out of 29 winners in the "Local Development" program, receiving over 15 million PLN from the "Norwegian Funds." The total value of the project being implemented in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski is nearly PLN 19 million. - "The main goal of the OstraKarta program is to encourage residents to use the services of municipal units, city-owned companies, and local entrepreneurs by participating in the Municipal Loyalty Program," explains Mayor Jarosław Górczyński. Partners who participate in this initiative will enable their customers to receive discounts on the services they offer. The "OstraKarta" system will include municipal units and companies, including the Municipal Cultural Center, BWA, the City Library, as well as facilities of the Municipal Center for Sports and Recreation and MZK (Municipal Communication Company). It is important to know that participation in the program is free and voluntary. City residents can join the program at any time during its duration. To obtain a card that allows participation in the program, you need to complete a declaration, then present an identity document and confirm the card's receipt. Additionally, a mobile application will be made available to residents.

– We are lucky enough to be able to carry out this task, having been awarded the so-called Norwegian funding, says Mayor Jarosław Górczyński. More than PLN 11 million will work for the benefit of our city. Of this, PLN 500,000 will be used to retrofit playgrounds to include accessible equipment.

– This is a project financed by the mechanism of the European Economic Area, i.e. within the framework of the so-called Norwegian project, says Deputy Mayor Dominik Smoliński. One of the main elements we emphasize are consultations with residents. The first of the meetings is held with representatives of the following housing estates: Częstocice, Hutnicze and Ludwików and aims to identify the place(s) where playgrounds will be retrofitted to include accessible play equipment, such as inclusive carousels and swings, but also sets comprising accessible elements. Knowing how many people with disabilities we have in each housing estate, we tried to select areas to meet real needs.

The place within the estate where the accessible equipment may be installed must meet a number of guidelines: public area, easy to access and reach, parking spaces, large safety zones, an area that guarantees safe use of equipment, versatility, integration of children.

Twenty pieces of equipment will be installed in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski (totaling around PLN 500,000), of which four: an inclusive set, an arc swing, an inclusive carousel and an inclusive swing will certainly be installed in the Park Fabryczny.

-        development of Environmental Education Program

-        development of accessibility audits of public buildings and public spaces in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski

-        development of documentation in the scope of land development together with the notification of intention to carry out construction works in the scope of equipping playgrounds with equipment for disabled persons

-        implementation of OstraKarta - a loyalty card for city residents

-        development of information and promotional materials regarding the Development Strategy of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski and ways to influence its implementation

-        expansion of the city's server room.

On May 31, during the Conference on III phase of the "Local Development" Programme projects' implementation and bilateral cooperation organized by the Ministry of Development Funds and Regional Policy, President of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Jarosław Górczyński and Arnstein Menes, President of Sogndal, signed a Partnership Agreement covering the scope of cooperation between the represented cities.

The Partnership Agreement is a part of a larger project implemented by Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski and financed by the European Economic Area under the Local Development Program.

As emphasized by the President of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – It was nice to learn during the conference that Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski and Sogndal were the first cities to sign their partnership agreement. Together, we will implement innovative activities under the project: Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – Miasta OdNowa (Eng. Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal). It is worth keeping fingers crossed for good cooperation, because the plans are ambitious, and the effect of cooperation will be noticeable to our residents.

The main assumptions of the cities' cooperation can be divided into the following three areas:

According to the principle “nothing about them without them”, from the very beginning young people have a great influence on the shape and implementation of the entire project entitled “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City ReNEWal”, starting with the public consultations organized by the Mayor of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Jarosław Górczyński back in 2019.

Taking into account the involvement of young people in the creation of the project and at the same time caring about their entry into the labor market, I decided to invite volunteers to cooperate in the implementation of the task which is the Academy of the Youth City Council. On the one hand, 5 volunteers who expressed interest in this type of cooperation will have the opportunity to learn project management with me and, on the other hand, they will have an invaluable advisory role in the communication with the target group which is young people. They themselves will no longer have the opportunity to run for the Youth Council due to the fact that they intend to go to university, but they want to have an impact on what is happening in their city.

The meeting of volunteers of the Youth City Council in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski

On the 25th of May 2022 in Zespół Edukacyjno-Przedszkolny “Szkoła z Pasją” (School and Kindergarten Complex “School with Passion”), the first meeting of volunteers of the Youth Council of the City of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski took place. The meeting was organized of PISK Association. The volunteers: Dominika Chmielewska, Natalia Majchrzyk, Weronika Młynek, Eliza Bugajska and Natalia Tworóg exchanged ideas and discussed the work plan for the next months, which will eventually lead to the creation of the Youth City Council. The volunteers were acquainted with the activities planned within the project. The scope of the volunteering agreement and the rules of cooperation between the volunteers and the coordinator were discussed. The meeting will result in the creation of a communication plan that will involve the use of social media to spread this social initiative among young people. The next meeting will be held in mid-June.

In terms of public participation, standards and forms of participation and public consultation with residents will be developed. Best practices in accessibility (including architectural accessibility) and socialization of management will be implemented.

A very important element of cooperation with the Norwegian Commune of Sogndal will be the implementation of good practices in the field of ecological activities, building ecological attitudes, development of public spaces with the use of green and blue infrastructure, routes, and bicycle paths in cooperation with NGOs.

• By the end of this year, the Contractor will prepare the construction documentation for the part of the project related to Ostrowiecki Integrator Edukacji i Przedsiębiorczych (Ostrowiec Integrator of Education and Entrepreneurs). The plan is to prepare more than a dozen rooms and halls with children and youth, as well as entrepreneurial people, in mind. They will be equipped with the Education Integrator devices from the realm of information and communication technology and robotics. There will also be virtual reality rooms, as well as rooms dedicated to e-sports. The Ostrowiec Integrator of Education and Entrepreneurs is a place where young people from Ostrowiec will be able to learn the secrets of being an entrepreneur, try to start their own start-up, obtain relevant competencies.
• For the purpose of conducting classes in municipal elementary school by the project partner – the Polish Red Cross, a contractor was selected to provide equipment in the form of modular natural science labs, microscopes, educational robots with accessories and teaching materials, tablets and sewing machinesby theend of June .
• A new website is now in use to keep you up to date with project activities.

Bids will soon be opened in two proceedings conducted by the Local Development Center for:

-        the development and consultation of the Ostrowiec Entrepreneurship Support Programme for 2021-2025 with an outlook to 2030 + and

-        the Development of an Educational & Entrepreneurial Program for the Ostrowiec Integrator of Education and Entrepreneurs and School Development Program

As part of the first program, the contractor will develop a diagnosis of the state of entrepreneurship in the city, indicate the biggest problems and barriers, analyze the city authorities' activities so far for the development of entrepreneurship and specify the priorities, specific goals and tasks that the city must set in order to meet the vision and goals set in the newly formulated municipal development strategy for 2021 - 2030 and the tasks set for implementation in the time horizon of the local and institutional development plan. For the purpose of preparing the document, social surveys will be carried out among employers and entrepreneurs in order to diagnose actions necessary to be implemented by 2030 for the development of the commune. This program will be the first document of this type of strategic importance functioning in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski.

The second task is to diagnose the situation of education in the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski commune in order to identify the most important challenges and potentials for its development. The contractor will use desk research analysis and conduct own research to determine the state of primary and secondary education in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, identify key problems and challenges of the sector. The analysis of the foundational data will include an examination of municipal and national data and cross-sectional analyses of expectations about the competencies a school should develop in students. Moreover, the School Development Program will be prepared, including the vision of the educational system in Ostrowiec, based on the diagnosis of needs and expectations of students, teachers, parents, local business which is important for the commune development, taking into account the local social and economic potential. The program shall indicate directions and plans for reorganization of the network of primary and secondary schools as well as kindergartens in the municipality and the proposed offer of extracurricular and out-of-school activities adequate to the requirements of education and expectations of the labor market, especially those related to specializations of the city and the region.

The final element of these tasks will be the preparation of the Educational & Entrepreneurial Program for the Ostrowiec Integrator of Education and Entrepreneurs, which is to define all possible functions of the integrator, directions of the integrator's activities for the years 2023 - 2032, together with the indication of the integrator's workrooms, a list of necessary equipment and the offer of classes (including lesson scenarios). The program is to be the basis for applying for external funds (national, European) for the implementation of educational activities for children and young people, to define the principles of use of the integrator by the stakeholders, including the entrepreneurial persons, to indicate the methods and tools of influence of the integrator for animating the development of entrepreneurship in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, contain drafts of regulations, agreement templates or a list of equipment, software and other aids needed to run in the integrator.

The above measures are to be completed by the contractors within 270 days of signing the agreement.

This is the first in a series of workshops for teachers and students aimed at:

— developing creativity and creative thinking,

— training in teamwork and effective communication,

— developing skills and abilities in the sciences and humanities,

— developing the ability to present own work and that of the whole team,

— improving teachers' competences in terms of innovations and creative methods

The workshop, attended by 168 teachers from Ostrowiec-based education establishments was hosted by Anna Markowicz, Deputy Director of Destination Imagination Poland Foundation. The workshop was a creative warm-up for the development of creativity in Ostrowiec-based schools. Participants learned about tools for measuring creativity, ways to stimulate cognitive curiosity, breaking down barriers to thinking and acting, and basic techniques and tools to stimulate creative thinking. It turned out that participation in the training is not only a large dose of knowledge but also great fun.

The plans include an entrepreneurship support program, development of bicycle infrastructure, implementation of a communal environmental education program, a resident’s portal, a digital archive, the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Integrator of Education and Entrepreneurship (org. Ostrowiecki Integrator Edukacji i Przedsiębiorczości), the “Ostrowiec Card” (orig. “Ostra Karta”), a loyalty program for the city’s residents, and a number of other projects.

— We are launching the “City Renewed” program, a major project, which involved about 1,000 people during the consultation stage. 255 cities had the opportunity to apply for the Norway Grants funds. In the first ranking of 55 cities, our city ranked fifth. In the final stage, Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski ranked 4th out of 29 cities. A very well-prepared documentation and great possibilities were our advantage at that point — said the Mayor of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Jarosław Górczyński.

The conference featured presentations showing what the funds raised will be used for. The entire project concerns a number of different areas, which were presented by the participants of the project responsible for their respective areas, the so-called partners.

The way to success, which the “Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski — the City Renewed” (orig. Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski — Miasto OdNowa) project is, was described by the Deputy Head of the Planning and Development Department Jolanta Pora.

Deputy Mayor of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Dominik Smoliński informed about plans to establish the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Integrator of Education and Entrepreneurship (org. Ostrowiecki Integrator Edukacji i Przedsiębiorczości), which will be located in the building of the Center for Continuing Education (orig. Centrum Kształcenia Ustawicznego) at ul. Sandomierska Street. Available 7 days a week, this facility, among its features, will host classes in robotics, programming and computer game development. The Center for Continuing Education will also continue to function there. The Deputy Mayor also spoke about the Technical Assistance Operational Program (orig. Program Operacyjny Pomocy Technicznej) involving the development of pilot project documentation for the functional reconstruction of public areas in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski in order to increase their attractiveness to residents with the use of green and blue infrastructure.

Local Development Center staff: Head of LDC Agnieszka Rogalińska and Senior Specialist for Investor and Entrepreneurship Services Łukasz Kot presented the entrepreneurship support program.

Head of the Poviat Family Assistance Center Joanna Pikus and Head of City Hall Investment Department Artur Majcher will be responsible for investments in improving accessibility for the disabled.

Head of the Department Mariusz Kałuża and Inspector Edyta Macias from the Ecology Department of the City Hall in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski will supervise the environmental education program.

Kamil Stelmasik and Sebastian Majewski from the Ostrower Association have the task of developing bicycle infrastructure and popularizing the culture of this means of transport.

The Polish Red Cross, headed by Beata Barska, will implement the “Modern Junior Academy” (orig. Akademia Współczesnego Juniora) program.

Katarzyna Cukierska, the Space for Social and Cultural Initiatives Association (orig. Przestrzeń Inicjatyw Społeczno-Kulturalnych), will take care of the appointment of the Youth City Council.

This year’s high school graduates: Weronika Młynek and Eliza Bugajska talked about the program “I am a resident of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski” (org. Jestem ostrowczaninem), which aims to build the identity of the city’s residents. The program includes a digital archive containing historical photos of the city and a comic book interweaving the city’s history with contemporary times.

Head of the IT Department Robert Pasternak and Deputy Head of the Planning and Development Department of the City hall in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Tomasz Gębka, among their tasks, will create an application for the residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski which will help to arrange official matters and inform about the events in the city. There are also plans to create the “Ostrowiec Card” (orig. Ostra Karta) — a loyalty program for the residents of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski.

Andrzej Kryj, MP, participating in the conference, congratulated Mayor Jarosław Górczyński on obtaining funds, having competent employees and the projects to be implemented. Wiesława Kwiatkowska and Grzegorz Kaczmarek, advisors from the Association of Polish Cities, assured of their assistance on an as needed basis.

Meeting participants:

On behalf of the Municipality of Sogndal:

Aina Thomassen – Coordinator from the Municipality of Sogndal,

Torkjel Solbraa – employee of the Municipality of Sogndal responsible for public participation,

Elisabet Orrestod Nils – Engineer at the Municipality of Sogndal responsible for infrastructure development at recreation sites,

Peter Areas – President of the “Sogn” cycling association,

Inger Auestad – Professor at Western University for Science.

On behalf of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Municipality:

Dominik Smoliński – Deputy Mayor,

Tomasz Gębka – Deputy Head of Planning and Development Department

Jolanta Pora – Deputy Head of Planning and Development Department

Anna Woś – Chief Specialist for Promotion in in the Planning and Development Department, Promotion and Public Communication Office

Adrian Murdza – Inspector in the Planning and Development Department, Promotion and Public Communication Office

Kamil Stelmiasik – representative of "Ostrower” Cycling Association based in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski

Mariusz Kałuża – Head of Ecology, Department of Ecology and Infrastructure Office of the City Hall

Edyta Macias – Inspector at the Ecology and Infrastructure Department of the City Hall

Grzegorz Kaczmarek, Wiesława Kwiatkowska – advisors Association of Polish Cities

The meeting was interpreted by: Mrs. Sonia Darzycka and Mr. Paweł Kozłowski from PBT Company based in Kraków.

The third meeting of the project: "Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – miasta OdNowa” [Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City Anew] was opened by Tomasz Gębka who then passed the floor to Aina Thomassen, who introduced the first panellist Torkjel Solbraa. Torkjel presented the Municipality's assumptions in relation to Sustainable Development, as well as the activities that are being implemented within the framework of this development. The municipality is making efforts to increase the environmental awareness of its residents. Torkjel said that Norway is complying with the obligations of the Paris Agreement under which it plans to reduce emissions to 50% by 2020 and to 90% in 2030. The councillors of Municipality of Sogndal have passed a resolution that the municipality will be zero-emission by 2030.

During the presentation, Torkjel answered questions about the involvement of NGOs in environmental activities in Sogndal.

In relation to Torkjen's presentation, the Deputy Mayor Dominik Smoliński presented tasks related to environmental protection and care for air quality in the Municipality that the Municipality of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski is implementing. He mentioned the replacement of coal furnaces with ecological ones, as well as funding for photovoltaics and heat pumps. The Deputy Mayor also informed about the project titled "Ekologiczny Transport Miejski w Ostrowcu Świętokrzyskim” [Ecological Urban Transport in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski]. The project involves the purchase of low-emission buses, including diesel, hybrid and electric ones, construction of a new depot for the Municipal Transport Company and bicycle paths.

After the Deputy Mayor presented the scope of the Green Urban Transport activities, Elisabet Orrestad Nils, who is in charge of infrastructure development in recreation and leisure areas in the Municipality of Sogndal, took the floor. The activities she undertakes as part of her mandate consist of corresponding with residents regarding the infrastructure needs of the recreation area, encouraging volunteering, and establishing close working relationships with NGOs. 

Another panellist at the meeting was Inger Auestad – Professor of Applied Science, who gave a talk on green urban infrastructure. She reported on the dangers of “urban sprawl" resulting in increased transportation and thus increased emissions. She argued the importance of urban green infrastructure planning.

In response to Inger's lecture, Deputy Mayor Dominik Smoliński presented plans related to changing the appearance of the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Market Square into a more friendly and ecological one.

Peter Andreas Strom spoke on the benefits of cycling as well as on ways to encourage cycling. He presented numerous bicycle routes that are located in Municipality of Sogndal, talked about the activities of the association, and encouraged participants to take up this type of recreation.

The last panellist was Kamil Stelmasik, who presented the activities of „Ostrower” Cycling Association operating in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski.

Dominik Smoliński referred to Kamil and Peter's speech and presented the idea of creating a pump truck in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski.  

The 2 hour meeting was summarized by Aina Thomassen.  It was agreed that the cooperation between the municipalities will be based on the activities that were discussed during the 3 meetings and within which we will undertake further cooperation.

Meeting participants:

On behalf of the Municipality of Sogndal:

Aina Thomassen – Coordinator from the Municipality of Sogndal,

Bente Mossige Ask – the Municipality of Sogndal, responsible for digitalisation activities

Sigrid Olmheim – Planning Department of the Municipality of Sogndal

Tordis Kristine Soevde – representative of the council for people with disabilities

Birte Barsnes Froyd – Western University representative for scientific affairs

On behalf of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Municipality:

Dominik Smoliński – Deputy Mayor of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski

Jolanta Pora – Deputy Head of Planning and Development Department

Tomasz Gębka – Deputy Head of Planning and Development Department

Anna Woś – Inspector in the Planning and Development Department, Promotion and Public Communication Office

Adrian Murdza – Inspector in the Planning and Development Department, Promotion and Public Communication Office

Jan Bernard Malinowski – Head of Department of Education and Social Affairs

Katarzyna Cukierska – President of Przestrzeń Inicjatyw Społeczno-Kulturalnych Association

Grzegorz Kaczmarek, Wiesława Kwiatkowska – advisors Association of Polish Cities

The meeting was interpreted by: Mrs. Sonia Darzycka and Mr. Paweł Kozłowski from PBT Company based in Kraków.

The meeting was opened by Mr. Tomasz Gębka who welcomed the participants, after which the floor was given to Mrs. Bente Mossig Ask who presented the innovative teaching through Minecraft in the Municipality of Sogndal. Bente talked about “Sogndal 2050” competition to design an urban space that students from schools in the municipality participated in.

In response to Bente Ask's presentation, Beata Barska, a representative of the Polish Red Cross, informed about the activities planned in connection with the implementation of the project "Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – miasta OdNowa” [Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski – City Anew], and concerning educational and entrepreneurial activities for young people aimed at stimulating and developing their creativity.

The next speaker was Tordis Kristine Soevde – the city council representative for people with disabilities. Her presentation focused primarily on implementing activities to involve people with disabilities in the life of the city. The organizational structures related to the functioning of the council were discussed, as well as the initiatives taken to adapt the urban space for people with disabilities. Mrs. Soevde answered numerous questions relating to assistance to people with disabilities and the state's systemic support in this area.

Torkjel Solbraa spoke on the topic of public participation and involvement of residents in the social life of the city. In his speech, he presented initiatives taken to encourage residents to co-create the city, as well as activities related to improving communication between the municipality and its residents.

Adrian Murdza – Supervisor in the Planning and Development Department – addressed Torkjel's presentation. He asked questions about innovative channels of communication between the city and the residents.

Another issue discussed during the meeting was volunteer work and its role in society. Birte Barsnes Froyd – a volunteer with the Association for People with Disabilities – spoke on this issue. Birte reported on the activities of the associations operating in Norway and their funding.

The 2-hour meeting was summarized by Tomasz Gębka and Aina Thomassen.  The parties agreed on the date of the next meeting, as well as its subject matter.

Meeting participants:

On behalf of the Municipality of Sogndal:

Bjarnhild Samland – Assistant to the Head of Education,

Frode Olav Haara – responsible for implementation of projects related to development of entrepreneurship among children and youth, representative of the Western Norwegian University,

Ingunn Marie Myren – representative of Sogndal Middle School,

Bente Ask – responsible for innovative teaching through Minecraft,

Holger Aasen – representative of the "Young Entrepreneur” organization,

Maria Kastad Brum – Secretary of the Municipality of Sogndal,

Aina Thomassen – Coordinator from the Municipality of Sogndal,

Torkjel Solbraa – responsible for public participation in the Municipality of Sogndal

On behalf of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Municipality:

Dominik Smoliński – Deputy Mayor,

Jolanta Pora – Deputy Head of Planning and Development Department

Tomasz Gębka – Deputy Head of Planning and Development Department

Anna Woś – Inspector in the Planning and Development Department, Promotion and Public Communication Office

Adrian Murdza – Inspector in the Planning and Development Department, Promotion and Public Communication Office

Jan Bernard Malinowski – Head of Department of Education and Social Affairs

Agnieszka Basa – Inspector in the Department of Education and Social Affairs

Mariusz Łata – Head of Department of Education, Health and Social Affairs

Monika Wiączek – Headmaster of Public Primary School No. 7

Katarzyna Goworek – Headmaster of Public Primary School No. 14

Katarzyna Cukierska – President of Przestrzeń Inicjatyw Społeczno-Kulturalnych Association

Zbigniew Wesołowski – Chief Specialist for Entrepreneurship and Economic Promotion

Agnieszka Rogalińska – Director of the Centre for Local Development

Łukasz Kot – Manager at the Centre for Local Development

Ewa Mochul-Zwolińska – Head of NGOs Affairs

Grzegorz Kaczmarek, Wiesława Kwiatkowska – advisors Association of Polish Cities

The meeting was interpreted by: Mrs. Sonia Darzycka and Mr. Paweł Kozłowski from PBT Company based in Kraków.

The meeting was opened by Tomasz Gębka and Dominik Smoliński, who welcomed the participants, after which the floor was given to Mrs. Bjarnhild Samland, who presented the Norwegian education system, including the curriculum of Norwegian schools.

The next speaker was a representative from the Western Norway University. His presentation focused mainly on the implementation of the project titled: "Knowledge-Based Entrepreneurship Development" which involved establishing cooperation with schools in Sweden and Denmark. The aim of the project was also to establish cooperation with the rest of the Scandinavian countries and to implement good practices in the field of entrepreneurship education and the development of entrepreneurial attitudes among children and young people. Based on the research and international collaboration, a scientific publication was produced.

Jan Bernard Malinowski, Head of the Education Department of the City Hall and Mariusz Łata, Head of the Education, Health and Social Department of the Starosty of Ostrowiec, spoke about the Polish education system and the municipal education.

A speech on the issues of inspiring and training young people in finance and banking was given by Holger Aassen, a representative of the "Young entrepreneur” organization which implements a series of projects involving meetings between young people and entrepreneurs, as well as a series of workshops aimed at stimulating creativity among young people, as well as learning entrepreneurial attitudes.

Agnieszka Rogalińska, Director of the Centre for Local Development, showed in her presentation the profile of the Centre’s activities, after which Łukasz Kot, an employee of the unit, presented the initiatives undertaken as part of the Centre’s statutory activities in the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski Municipality.

Marie Kastaad Brum presented briefly the activities and initiatives of the Youth City Council of the Municipality of Sogndal.

Katarzyna Cukierska, the President of PISK Association, also spoke on the topic of the Youth City Council, referring to the initiatives taken by the Association with the aim of encouraging young people to take an active part in the social life of the city.

Numerous activities to stimulate entrepreneurial attitudes have been undertaken by local schools, including the Public Primary School No. 7, as reported by Monika Wiączek, Headmaster of the School No. 7.

The 2-hour meeting was summarized by Tomasz Gębka.  The parties agreed on the date of the next meeting, as well as topics of particular interest to the meeting participants that have not yet been discussed, i.e. cities designing in Minecraft activities.