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Description
Jarosław is in the 11th place (out of 122), as a city that experiences a very strong loss of function and has a very unfavorable social and economic situation. Jarosław is also struggling with a great problem of depopulation and migration to larger cities, and the problem is particularly acute among young people. Therefore society in the city is getting older. Moreover, the unemployment rate in the city is higher than the voivodship average. Besides of that, city is polluted. WHO classified Jarosław in the infamous 20th place out of the 50 most polluted cities in the entire EU, being the most polluted city in Podkarpacie. There are many activities that aim to address these challenges. In relation to the environmental, spatial, social, economic dimension and improving the quality of life it is planned to build new transfer center with a green roof, buy the first zero-emission bus, buy the first recycling machine, conducting a pro-environmental campaign, organization of the Jarosław Fair and Economic Fair, making an Investor Service Point, building an IT Management Center, introducting a Jarosław City Card. Importent invest.: thermomodernization of Primary School No. 11 and the implementation of ed. activities in the field of energy efficiency for students of 3PSs: investment will consist in both reducing the energy demand of the building, as well as improving the efficiency of the heating system, energy efficiency of built-in lighting, a renewable energy element in the form of a photovoltaic cell battery).It is planned to achieve a significant boost in local development for many years to come, among others by improving natural environment, the quality of residents’ lives and stimulating local entrepreneurship. All the inhabitants of the city will be the beneficiaries. The other group of beneficiaries will be local decision-makers, who, thanks to the project, will acquire knowledge how to plan long-term effective development with the wide participation of residents.
Summary of project results
In the area of the environment, the key problem was the poor condition of the natural environment, caused mainly by air pollution, which was at one of the highest levels in Europe and came mainly from so-called low emissions. This was caused by the unfavourable structure of fuels used in outdated heating systems and insufficient use of renewable energy sources. Too much traffic on the roads was also visible, causing noise and pollution values to be exceeded. In this respect the town also had some untapped development potential. The town is situated on a picturesque hill on the San River, and there is also a route called the Gateway to the Bieszczady Mountains in the immediate vicinity. The San River may be a place of active and healthy outdoor recreation e.g. through the development of an innovative model of cycling and kayaking tourism.
In the demographic/social area the most important problem was the ageing of the population and depopulation of the town, mainly through the outflow of young people to bigger centres in search of work and better development prospects. Endogenous potentials in this respect were large workplaces located in the town, an extensive education system and the SHSTE in Jarosław. All this could result in a large influx of people working and learning in the town, from which, thanks to the developed offer of communal housing and improved quality of life, new residents might potentially find themselves. There was also great potential for a society that is more willing to engage in local initiatives than in other cities.
In economic terms, the town''s biggest problems were, on the one hand, the insufficient number of job offers and low wages, resulting in a lack of prospects for young people. On the other hand, from the point of view of entrepreneurs on the labour market, there were insufficiently well qualified staff willing to take up work. The main problems also included too weak a development of local entrepreneurship. One of the most important endogenous potentials of the town is its geographical location in the vicinity of the state border and on the A4 motorway, which in future, among other things, in the case of Ukraine''s accession to the European Union, may have a positive impact on economic development, for example, by the increased demand for investment areas close to the border and through international economic exchange.
In the spatial dimension of the town, the main problems were the decreasing number of building sites for residential and commercial construction. There were also no prepared plots of land and appropriate legal instruments which would encourage young people to settle in the town. There was potential for urban plots which, with an appropriate municipal building policy, could be transformed into building plots.
In the dimension of intelligent city management, the main problem was the insufficient application of modern technologies in city management, both in terms of the quality of life of the residents and in terms of institutional/strategic management. The potential in this respect was the SHSTE in Jarosław with courses in this field, i.e. Automation and Practical Electronics and Computer Science, students of which can support the digital transformation of the town.
In the cultural dimension, the main problem was the lack of a single, leading and recognisable brand of the town. The potential, however, was the heritage and merchant traditions of the town and the related Jarosław Fair.
In the funding dimension of the town, the main problem was the low growth rate of tax revenues, additionally compounded by the situation of the Covid-19 epidemic. The potential was a comprehensive vision of the town''s development as part of the preparation of the Local and Institutional Development Plan, taking into account external funding sources (identified using the Project Funding Sources Database).
However, thanks to the high level of civil society and the planning of adequate actions and the use of appropriate tools, it was possible to smoothly reverse these negative trends.
In the environmental dimension, adaptation to climate change, improvement of the state of the air in the town and, above all, reversal of the negative habits of the inhabitants related to pollution of the urban environment were crucial. The problem mainly concerned the use of unsuitable fuels and outdated heaters.
In the economic dimension, the key challenge was to use the internal and external potential of the town for economic development. The town should take a realistic approach to its chances of economic development, and therefore the vicinity of the dynamically developing Voivodship city of Rzeszów was a very big challenge but also a potential.
In the social dimension, the challenge was to improve the inhabitants'' living comfort and increase their involvement in the town''s creation.
In the spatial dimension, the key challenge was to adapt the public space infrastructure to the needs of the residents. Above all, in terms of broadly understood accessibility, which includes not only the disabled, but also mothers with children and the elderly.
It was not without an impact on the current situation of small and medium-sized towns that the problem of a global epidemiological threat remains serious and is growing in strength. That time it was COVID-19, but scientists agreed that similar epidemics might recur in the future. The pandemic, in just a few months, destroyed the global economic order which had been built up over the years and very quickly led to an economic slowdown and huge indebtedness on the part of countries. This, in turn, could result in a huge crisis. Paradoxically, however, this situation might prove to be salutary for small and medium-sized towns, because it would change people''s thinking about the economy, work and life. Overnight, because of the priority for our health and safety, we had been forced to change the way we work to remote working. It soon became clear that with proper preparation, learning and working online proved to be possible and as effective as traditional forms. This was the potential of small and medium-sized towns, because people who decided to live in such conditions would be willing to settle outside the big cities. The prerequisite for this would be, above all, digital preparation of the town, a good state of the natural environment, high living comfort, safety and an extensive offer of ''free time''. The consequences of this pandemic might be that cities such as Jarosław are increasingly being chosen as a place for a good and healthy life.
The second equally important phenomenon observed and the related trend was global climate change caused by human activity. For many years, this problem had been underestimated, and it had a significant negative impact not only on human health, but also on enormous economic damage. Environmental issues are not just philanthropic whims, but real financial and health impacts. We could not therefore expect environmental change to affect only the largest and richest cities, and in this respect society as a whole should feel a shared responsibility. The role of local and regional authorities in this regard is to promote pro-environmental attitudes through green-blue investments and to educate and inform citizens.
In response to the above challenges, with the strong involvement of the local community, the use of the SMART method and the tool of the project''s logical matrix, coherent and complementary objectives were set for the whole project, consisting of objectives dedicated to the Institutional Development Plan and the Local Development Plan. In order to plan a successful local development, the necessary institutional foundations need to be worked out, therefore showing the role of IDP in this place is essential.
Project Purchase of an electric bus - one brand new, low-floor public transport bus powered by electricity was purchased.
Project Purchase of a recycling machine - a recycling machine was delivered and installed in the place indicated by the beneficiary in accordance with the concluded agreement together with the equipment.
Project Jarosławskie Wiszące Ogrody - Transfer Center - a shelter was built with a steel structure covered with a green roof at the Railway Station in Jarosław.
Project Construction of a Transfer Center - was carried out in the scope of hardening parking spaces.
Project: Adaptation of inventoried municipal public utility buildings in terms of the requirements of the Accessibility + programme - an elevator for people with disabilities was constructed in Primary School No. 11 and typhlographic signage was performed in 4 educational buildings and the furniture of the City Hall office was adapted to the needs of people with disabilities (including lowering the counter and lowering the right side of the reception desk of the Information Point).
The Great Yaroslavl Fair Project - during the implementation , 2 editions of the Mini Fair and the Great Yaroslavl Fair were held.
In 2022, the Mini Fair was organized on June 1, 2022 and the Great Yaroslavl Fair on August 25-28, 2022. The equipment was purchased.
The Mini Fair was held on 1 June 2023 and the Great Yaroslavl Fair on 24-27 August 2023. Contracts were signed with artists and reenactment groups who led the opening procession of the Fair, performed concerts on stage, conducted workshops and shows during the Fairs. In 2022 and 2023, the production of promotional materials was also commissioned: 7 banners, 50 posters and 1000 leaflets. Airtime was purchased on the radio (a programme about the tourist and cultural values of the Municipality of Jarosław, including the Great Jarosław Fair; 10 20-second invitations to the event) and on TVP Rzeszów television (film material Get to know Podkarpackie - "Great Jarosław Fair" in 6 episodes - each about 10 minutes long). Two sponsored articles were published in the weekly Zycie Podkarpackie (an article announcing and an article summarising the Great Jarosław Fair). A promotional film was prepared - a report from the Fair.
In order to promote the event as a cyclical event, the development and production of an original box game referring to the tradition of fairs was ordered. The subject of the order was received.
Taking into account the post-tender savings identified in the project, it was decided to purchase equipment (a coin set, a pottery wheel, a clay mixer with equipment), which will be used in the organization of subsequent editions of the fairs.
Project Improving the investment offer of the city of Jarosław
Gadgets promoting the city of Jarosław and the Norwegian funds were made. Elements of the exhibition stand were also purchased. A promotional film for the investment areas of the city was created. Two meetings with entrepreneurs were also organized: 20.03.2024 and 15.04.2024. The principles of joining the Jarosław City Card as a partner were discussed and the real estate sector in the city, crisis management issues, social assistance and the most needed investments.
Project Operation of the Investor Acquisition and Service Point
In accordance with Order No. 473/2022 of the Mayor of the City of Jarosław of October 26, 2022 on amendments to the Organizational Regulations of the Jarosław City Office, the Investor Service Point was established as part of the current Strategy and Fund Acquisition Office. The tasks of the Strategy, Fundraising and Investor Service Office in the scope of investor service in the city.
As of June 1, 2023, an employee was hired for the Investor Service Point.
As of February 19, 2024, a second employee was hired for the Investor Service Point.
Project Creation of the Jarosław City Card - a limited one-stage competition was announced for the Implementation of the Jarosław City Card system together with a MultiSiteCMS portal as the system of the Virtual City of Jarosław. In accordance with the concluded agreement, the Contractor implemented the system on a production server, made the final version of the System available for download and free use by System Users and provided the Ordering Party with system documentation, source codes and necessary equipment on 29.03.2024.
20 portable computers were also purchased for city units to support the functionality of the city card.
Project Training and study visits for public administration employees
Employees of the Jarosław City Office participated in training organized by external institutions in the scope of PZP, accessibility, meetings of the Experience Exchange Network (SWD) organized by the Association of Polish Cities: Entrepreneurial City, Digital City, Climate Neutral City, Green City, Human resources in cities and in the network for leaders. A study visit was organized in Ostróda, during which representatives of the UMJ familiarized themselves with all aspects related to public transport, and in particular with the implementation of the electronic ticket sales system. Employees of the office participated in training organized by the Ministry of Funds and Regional Policy in cooperation with the Association of Polish Cities for beneficiaries of the Local Development Program.
A study visit was organized in Piła, in connection with the organization of the Piła Christmas Fair.
Additionally, as part of the project, training was planned and implemented based on concluded agreements in the following areas: Institutional development – part 1 – 20 people, Cooperation and internal communication, part 2 - – 10 people; Soft skills – part 3 – 10 people; Management, financial management, risk management – part 4 – 8 people: Digital accessibility – part 5 – 60 people; Project management – part 6 – 6 people; Investments in historic buildings, low-emission transport, environmental protection, telecommunications infrastructure – part 7 – 10 people.
Project Improving accessibility in the city - a competition in the field of accessibility was organized.
Project Creation of an Investor Acquisition and Service Point
Project Creation of the IT City Management Center – SMART CITY Jarosław
The reconstruction and renovation were carried out, along with the change of use of some of the rooms of the former MZK administrative building at 1 Zamkowa Street in Jarosław for the purpose of creating the Investor Acquisition and Service Point and the IT City Management Center with monitoring. The following equipment and supplies were also ordered for the rebuilt building: interactive monitors, furniture and household appliances for the break room, computer equipment – portable computers with software, mobile stand, internal dispenser and key depository, wireless network controller, internal network access point, network switch and internal wireless network access point, hybrid communication system, network devices and UPS, servers, arrays, UTM devices and system software, multifunction printers, alarm system, access control system and wireless fire alarm system and typhlographic marking. The video monitoring system was expanded. The technical design of the telecommunications connection to the MZK building was prepared. Equipment and supplies for the main building were also purchased in connection with the establishment of ICZM: portable computers, printers, furniture and office equipment.
Project Preparation of design documentation for municipal public utility buildings in terms of accessibility
Audits of architectural, digital and information and communication accessibility for people with special needs for municipal public utility buildings in terms of accessibility were commissioned and received.
Project Development of social housing construction A Housing Development Program was developed in Jarosław as part of the task Development of a housing policy development plan together with designation of areas for social housing construction.
Project Educational and information campaign on low emissions, urban greenery, waste recycling, renewable energy sources, thermal modernization, etc.
As part of the implementation of the task, the Ecological Education Strategy in the Municipality of Jarosław for 2024-2030 was developed as a tool for conducting ecological education in the Municipality of Jarosław, educational activities were carried out in all primary schools and kindergartens for which the Municipality of Jarosław is the managing body (lectures, competitions, games), an ecological picnic for 5,000 primary school students was organized and conducted on 21.03.2024, as well as two-day workshops for 4 groups of students from grades IV-VI, 15 people each. An information and educational campaign was also conducted in the media based on materials prepared by the Contractor.
Project Operation of the IT Center for City Management and the Jarosław City Card
By order of the Mayor of the City of Jarosław, as of 1 December 2021, the IT Center for City Management was established within the City Office. An IT specialist was employed who is responsible for coordinating the digital transformation of the entire city and developing the Jarosław City Card. He is responsible for the ongoing support of the ICZM and JKM.
A Coordinator for the IT Center for City Management was employed in November 2022, who continued his work until the end of the project.
Project Educational activities - conducted in parallel with the Great Jarosław Fair. Representatives of the cities took part in meetings moderated by representatives of the Association of Polish Cities, the main theme of which was Events as a tool for supporting entrepreneurship in cities (2022) and Creating a tourist product based on local resources - Development and promotion of the tourist product in the context of the challenges of sustainable tourism (2023).
The project "JarosLove – z miłości ludzi" was a significant initiative that aimed to address key social, cultural, and environmental challenges while fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility. The project achieved remarkable outcomes across multiple domains, benefiting a wide range of stakeholders. Below is a detailed analysis of the results, outcomes, and impacts, as well as an exploration of the primary beneficiaries.
Key Results of the JarosLove Project:
Community Engagement and Social Integration
The project’s primary objective was to strengthen social bonds within the community of Jarosław and surrounding areas. Through a series of workshops, events, and participatory activities, the initiative succeeded in:
- Engaging residents in various project activities, including cultural festivals, environmental activities and skill-building workshops.
- Promoting social inclusion by involving marginalized groups, such as seniors, people with disabilities, and economically disadvantaged families.
- Creating a platform for intergenerational dialogue, where younger and older residents could share experiences and learn from each other, thereby fostering mutual respect and understanding.
Cultural Revitalization
One of the project’s standout achievements was the preservation and promotion of local heritage. By focusing on Jarosław’s rich cultural traditions, the project:
- Organized four major cultural festivals that showcased local music, art, and cuisine, attracting visitors from across the region.
- Supported local artists and artisans by providing them with opportunities to exhibit and sell their work, leading to increased visibility and economic benefits.
- Documented and shared oral histories and traditions, ensuring that the community’s intangible cultural heritage is preserved for future generations.
Environmental Sustainability
Environmental conservation was another core focus of the JarosLove project. Key environmental outcomes included:
- The establishment of two urban green spaces, providing residents with areas for recreation and relaxation while enhancing local biodiversity.
- Hosting educational workshops on topics such as recycling, composting, and sustainable living, which reached over 500 participants.
Economic Empowerment
The project also had a notable impact on the local economy by:
- Supporting small businesses through the creation of the Jarosław City which gives the opportunity to promote local companies among residents for free.
- Entrepreneurship lessons conducted in schools, giving the city''s youngest residents the opportunity to develop entrepreneurial skills
- Increasing tourism to Jarosław through enhanced cultural and environmental attractions.
Impacts on Specific Beneficiaries:
1. Local Residents
The primary beneficiaries of the JarosLove project were the residents of Jarosław and nearby areas. The project’s focus on community-building activities brought neighbors together, reducing feelings of isolation and enhancing overall well-being.
Seniors took advantage of the attractions of the fairs, which were an opportunity for them to integrate and "go out to people".
Youth were engaged through skill-building activities and volunteering opportunities, empowering them to contribute positively to their community.
Families found new spaces and events to enjoy together, strengthening family bonds and creating lasting memories.
People with disabilities - specific facilities and awareness-raising activities were financed in the project.
2. Local Artists and Entrepreneurs
Artists, craftsmen, and small business owners were significant beneficiaries of the project. By providing platforms for exposure and sales, the project boosted their economic prospects and encouraged innovation within the community.
3. Educational Institutions
Local schools and university were also key beneficiaries. The project collaborated with these institutions to:
- Integrate environmental education into their curricula.
- Offer internships and volunteer opportunities for students, providing them with practical experience and a chance to contribute to meaningful initiatives.
- The Rector of PANS had the opportunity to exchange experiences with Norwegian partner during a study visit to Norway.
4. Visitors and Tourists
While primarily focused on local residents, the project also benefited visitors by:
- Creating vibrant cultural and natural attractions that enhanced the appeal of Jarosław as a travel destination.
- Providing engaging experiences that highlighted the unique identity and heritage of the region.
5. Cultural institutions
- They as project partners significantly strengthened their potential and acquired new skills during the implementation of project tasks.
- The experience and purchased equipment will be used to carry out further activities in the future.
- They also had the opportunity to promote their activities, among others, by participating in the Jarosław City Card Program.
6. City hall employees, employees of municipal units, teachers
- They as project partners significantly strengthened their potential and acquired new skills during the implementation of project tasks.
- They participated in numerous training courses strengthening institutional potential and soft skills.
The JarosLove project laid a strong foundation for sustained positive change in the community. Key aspects of its long-term impact include:
1. Strengthened Community Networks: The relationships built during the project continue to inspire collaboration and mutual support among residents.
2. Enhanced Cultural Identity: By celebrating local traditions, the project instilled pride in the community’s heritage, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
3. Ongoing Environmental Benefits: The green spaces and environmental awareness initiatives established during the project will continue to benefit residents and the local ecosystem.
4. Economic Growth: The skills and opportunities provided to local entrepreneurs and artists have created a ripple effect, contributing to sustained economic development.
The "JarosLove – z miłości ludzi" project achieved impressive results, addressing critical social, cultural, and environmental needs while fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose among its beneficiaries. From empowering individuals to revitalizing the community as a whole, the initiative stands as a testament to the transformative power of collective action and love for people. By engaging a diverse range of stakeholders and focusing on sustainability, the project has left a lasting legacy that will continue to enrich the lives of Jarosław’s residents and beyond.
Summary of bilateral results
On 30.06.2022, a partnership agreement was signed.A study visit of the partner city delegation to Jarosław took place on 24-28.08.2022, with 8 people participating. They took part in the Great Jarosław Fair and participated in a conference organized as part of educational activities for cities. The scope of further cooperation was determined. There was also an exchange of experiences on the functioning of both communes. A study visit was prepared to Nordre Follo Komune, which took place on 9-15.10.2022. Many common challenges were noticed despite the distance separating the two cities. In accordance with the assumptions of the Local Development Program, the focus was on: natural environment, society, heritage/local entrepreneurship, institutional development and the support system for people with disabilities. In addition, the functioning of local private companies, the operation of the public transport company (equipped with electric buses), Dagbo - an institution supporting people with disabilities, a higher vocational school were presented. There was also a visit to KS.Next study visit to Norway took place on 9-16.06.2023. The Beneficiary gave a presentation on the use of cultural heritage in building the city''s tourist attractiveness, the use of merchant traditions in organizing the Fairs. The focus was also on the problems of people with disabilities, the elderly and young people. Representatives of PSONI started talks with representatives of Empo AS - a workplace for people with intellectual disabilities on the importance of professional activity in building a sense of value, personal development and achieving economic independence. Talks on the possibilities of cooperation were also started.On 21-27.08.2023, a study visit of the delegation of the partner city to Jarosław took place, it was attended by 8 people. They took part in the Great Yaroslavl Fair, participated in a conference carried out as part of educational activities for cities.