WIELKIE PORZĄDKI GIBAŁY. LECI JAK ZŁY. BRAKUJE 400 MILIONÓW

Kraków’s New Administration

Commentator Tomasz Borejza says Kraków’s new mayor, Łukasz Gibała, began reorganizing city government soon after taking office. The changes include closing departments created under his predecessor, Aleksander Miszalski. The city estimates the move will save about PLN 2.3 million annually by eliminating six director posts.

The video also describes personnel changes, including the departure of the student-rights ombudsman and directors of city units. Borejza criticizes a public-relations contract worth nearly PLN 310,000 gross and says further changes could affect mayoral appointees and the boards of municipal companies. He supports reducing the size of company management and supervisory boards, while arguing that appointments should be made through open competitions.

Budget Concerns

A major concern is a reported shortfall of nearly PLN 400 million in the city budget, particularly in funding for teachers’ pay, education, and public transport. Borejza notes that previous budget gaps were addressed through additional bond issues and questions whether the current administration has a sustainable solution.

Clean Transport Zone Debate

Debate over Kraków’s Clean Transport Zone (SCT) is ongoing. Deputy mayor Jan Hoffman says the city is working with lawyers and experts on changes that can withstand legal challenges.

Borejza describes competing risks: environmental groups could challenge substantial reductions to the zone, while opponents may continue pressing for changes or a referendum.

Political Disputes and Public Criticism

Borejza accuses some councillors and political appointees of obstructing the new administration. He cites an alleged reluctance to meet with Gibała and criticism of the mayor’s talks with PiS councillors. He argues that councillors should cooperate on city matters rather than turn meetings into political disputes.

The video also mentions criticism over a photo of the mayor’s dogs in his office, which Borejza treats as a minor controversy.

Other Cities

Beyond Kraków, Borejza discusses Częstochowa, where voters recalled the mayor and city council. The former mayor described the campaign against him as a campaign of “hate and slander.”

He also points to the prospect of a recall effort in Gliwice, presenting both developments as part of a wider political shake-up in Polish cities.

Presenter

Tomasz Borejza