Goleniów County

Goleniowski County, with its seat in Goleniów, is an administrative unit located in northwestern Poland in the West Pomeranian Voivodeship, established in 1999 as part of the administrative reform. The county is inhabited by over 82,000 residents and includes municipalities such as Goleniów, Maszewo, Nowogard, and Stepnica, as well as several rural communes. It also encompasses the towns of Goleniów, Maszewo, Nowogard, and Stepnica. The county spans an area of 1,615.53 km² and covers the Goleniów Plain and the Goleniów Forest, making it a region rich in natural beauty. Its territory features numerous water bodies, including Lake Nowogardzkie and Lake Przybiernowskie. The county's economy has undergone significant transformation since 2011, when the unemployment rate was 17.9%, dropping to 5.3% in 2019, highlighting the improvement in residents' living conditions. It is also worth noting that the county has been the site of numerous historical administrative changes, with its own history dating back to the 1950s. Interestingly, Goleniowski County has seen initiatives such as an association advocating for a name change to Goleniów-Nowogard County, reflecting residents' desire to strengthen ties between municipalities. The region is also significant in terms of transportation, with Szczecin-Goleniów Airport and a well-developed network of national and regional roads. The county is also home to many volunteer fire departments, underscoring the local communities' involvement in the emergency response system. Architecturally, the region blends modernity with historical elements, making it an interesting destination not only for residents but also for tourists. The county borders seven other counties, and its proximity to Szczecin and coastal towns enhances the region's appeal. Culturally, Goleniowski County organizes various local events that promote tradition and community initiatives.