Nawrocki Signs Pomeranian Metropolitan Act

On Thursday, July 2, President Karol Nawrocki signed legislation establishing a metropolitan union in the Pomeranian Voivodeship, which will unite 61 local governments and nearly 1.6 million residents.

Legislative Framework and Governance

The act mandates that the metropolitan union operate under a “double majority” principle, requiring the support of both a specific number of local government units and a corresponding share of the population for decision-making. Member municipalities will gain access to a shared metropolitan budget to coordinate regional functions.

Presidential Dialogue and Regional Balance

Nawrocki emphasized that the law was shaped through dialogue with local officials, incorporating specific protections for smaller municipalities. At least 40 percent of the funds designated for the union’s own tasks must be allocated to rural and urban municipalities that do not have the status of a city with district rights.

Investment in Innovation and Transport

The legislation requires that at least 5 percent of the metropolitan budget be dedicated to scientific research and cooperation with universities. The City of Gdańsk noted that a primary task will be integrating public transport to simplify travel across the Pomeranian region.

Financial Outlook for the Region

The metropolitan union is expected to have approximately 150 million PLN at its disposal in its first year, with that figure projected to rise to 500 million PLN annually over time. Most of these funds will be redirected from the central state budget to the local level.