Nowy Sącz officials move to liquidate three municipal kindergartens

The Nowy Sącz City Council has passed intent resolutions to begin the process of liquidating three public kindergartens: Municipal Kindergarten No. 3 on Szujskiego Street, No. 7 on Krakowska Street, and No. 18 on Sucharskiego Street. The city administration proposes that these facilities cease operations by August 31, 2027.

Local authorities justify the reorganization by citing demographic shifts, specifically a declining birth rate, and the existence of approximately 180 vacant spots across municipal facilities. Officials argue that maintaining underutilized infrastructure leads to rising operational costs and that adjusting the network is necessary for rational public spending.

The decision has met significant opposition from parents and local residents, who attended council sessions to protest. Critics argue that closing neighborhood facilities will create logistical hardships for families, particularly those without private vehicles. While one proposal to liquidate a kindergarten in the Wólki district was withdrawn following discussions regarding local housing developments and demographic potential, the remaining three closures remain on the agenda.