Złotów County

Złotowski County, located in northern Poland within the Greater Poland Voivodeship, was established in 1999 as part of the administrative reform. Its seat is the town of Złotów, which plays an important role in the region. It is a county of considerable area, the third largest in Greater Poland, and at the same time the northernmost in the region. The county includes urban, urban-rural, and rural municipalities, including Złotów, Jastrowie, Krajenka, Okonek, Lipka, Tarnówka, and Zakrzewo. The population of the county, according to data from the end of 2019, was 69,433 inhabitants, with Statistics Poland (GUS) forecasts indicating a decline to 62,941 by 2035. Złotowski County has a rich history associated with numerous administrative changes. Between 1945 and 1999, the county changed its affiliation to various voivodeships several times, starting from Pomeranian, through Szczecin, Koszalin, up to Piła, before finally being assigned to Greater Poland. In 2002, the county had the highest unemployment rate in the Greater Poland Voivodeship, at 27%. As of September 2019, the county's economy was in a state of employment, with about 1.6 thousand registered unemployed, corresponding to an unemployment rate of 5%. The county borders five other counties: Piła, Wałcz, Drawsko, Szczecinek, Człuchów, and Sępólno. Beyond economic and demographic aspects, Złotów and its surroundings are a place with a rich cultural heritage, diverse traditions, and historic buildings, making it an interesting place not only to live but also to visit. It is worth noting the architecture of the towns, which combines modern elements with traditional styles, creating a unique landscape. Złotowski County, due to its location and rich history, has the potential for further economic and social development in the future.