Schwedt in Focus: Construction Planning, Finances, and Communication in February 2026

Growth and Clarity: Schwedt Builds and Plans

What was important this month

• ✅ Expansion of the Hafen Nord industrial area approved
• 💰 490,000 euros planned for the dredging of the Holzhafen
• 🏗️ Modernization of Berliner Straße with grant funds
• 📝 New regulation of the meeting management system for more transparency
• 🗣️ Public inquiries and residents' question time remained active

1. Urban Development: Growth in Hafen Nord

In February 2026, a milestone in urban development in Schwedt was reached: the expansion of the Hafen Nord industrial area was established. With a change in the land use plan and the drafting of the zoning plan, the city took a decisive step toward economic growth.

12.2 hectares of agricultural land will be converted into industrial building land. This process follows the requirements of the Building Use Ordinance (§ 9) and adheres to the environmental assessment under § 2 (4) of the Building Code (BauGB).

The process is not yet complete but will continue in further committees such as the Committee on Structural Change and the City Council Assembly. The land exchange, discussed in the non-public session, is another step in implementation.

In addition, the Urban Development Concept "Hafen Nord Expansion" (SVV/135/25) was prepared — a long-term plan that also considers the development of the Vierraden district.

2. Finances: Grants and Investments

February also focused on financial decisions. The dredging of the Holzhafen will be implemented at a cost of 490,000 euros, with 138,000 euros coming from grants and the rest from municipal budget funds. The work is scheduled to run from October 2026 to June 2027.

A further focus was the modernization of Berliner Straße with a budget of 258,900 euros, also supported by 138,000 euros in grants.

In addition, a special fund for infrastructure and climate neutrality was approved with 9.9 million euros. By the end of 2029, 50% of these funds must be used. The list of measures must be developed by June 25, 2026 — another step toward sustainable urban development.

The debate on the entertainment tax remained controversial. The amendment was rejected in the main committee with 3 yes, 3 no, and 2 abstentions.

3. Administration: Transparent Processes and Digital Support

In February, the administration focused on more transparency and digital support. The residents' question time continued to be a regular part of the local council meetings — in all eight city districts. Minutes were checked, and there were no objections to the records.

Meeting documentation was conducted via the Meeting Service System (SessionNet), a digital platform that accelerates and documents the process. The last change to the minutes took place on March 17, 2026 at 1:30 PM — an indicator of the active handling of the topics.

Additionally, the rules of procedure for the city council assembly were updated. For example, the introduction of an elders' committee is planned, which is intended to structure and make committee work more efficient.

4. Political Debates and Decision-Making Processes

Political debates remained quite exciting. The motion for a Children and Youth Charter (AN/022/25) was postponed, while an amendment to the rules of procedure (ÄA/024/26) was not recommended.

Final decisions will be made in the City Council Assembly on March 5, 2026. Until then, the political landscape in Schwedt/Oder remains exciting — with the participation of CDU, BvB Free Voters/Free Uckermärkers, The OPPOSITION, and non-factional city council members.

5. Public Engagement and Citizen Participation

Even though some agenda items were not discussed publicly, citizen participation remained lively. Public inquiries into topics such as the dredging of the Holzhafen and the modernization of Berliner Straße showed that residents are actively interested.

In the non-public session, for example, confirmations of minutes, contract award decisions, and the land exchange for Hafen Nord were discussed. Mayor Annekathrin Hoppe chaired the main committee meeting, supported by the finance administration and political factions.

Looking Beyond the Horizon: Urban Development and Financial Planning

The topics of urban development and financial planning are closely interlinked. The investments in infrastructure and climate neutrality demonstrate not only the city's commitment but also the necessity to combine long-term planning with limited resources.

The discussion on the entertainment tax also highlights the political tensions in handling financial resources. Here it becomes clear that the city depends on broad support in its calculations — a topic that will be further discussed in March.

Conclusion and Outlook

February 2026 in Schwedt/Oder was characterized by clear decisions in urban development, transparent administrative processes, and exciting political debates. The expansion of Hafen Nord, the investments in infrastructure, and the use of grant funds show that the city is betting on growth and sustainability.

In March, the final vote in the City Council Assembly will take place. Then, the last open questions on urban development and financial planning will be answered. Until then, Schwedt/Oder remains in motion — with clear goals and active citizen participation.

Stay tuned — and involved.