A policeman defies black statistics: The economy is the engine of development

The town of Poličnik in Zadar County, Croatia, has defied national economic trends with its robust industrial growth, positioning itself among the most developed municipalities in the country despite having fewer than 5,000 residents. While many towns in Dalmatia rely heavily on tourism, Poličnik has focused on developing business zones and fostering local industry. According to Davor Lončar, the mayor of Poličnik, the municipality would have been one of the poorest in Croatia without its emphasis on economic development. The recent opening of a fourth business zone marks another milestone in this strategy. This new zone will host 13 businesses employing approximately 250 people, adding to the existing 136 registered companies in the area that already employ 1,777 workers. Lončar emphasized that the stability of the municipal budget over the years has largely depended on these business zones. He noted that the municipality's original budget amounts to around seven million euros annually, excluding subsidies, support programs, and European Union funds. This self-sufficiency has allowed Poličnik to avoid reliance on external financial aid, making it a model for other municipalities in Croatia. The success of Poličnik has even prompted discussions about the number of municipalities in the country, with some suggesting that too many exist. However, Lončar argued that had Poličnik not been autonomous, it might not have achieved such development. The development model in Poličnik includes a comprehensive approach that integrates essential services with economic activity. According to Ivan Šipić, the minister of demographics and settlement, the town offers everything from kindergartens and schools to workplaces all in one place. This integrated approach has made Poličnik an attractive example for other regions looking to replicate similar strategies. In addition to creating jobs, the municipality has also focused on improving living conditions for its elderly population. Construction of a new home for 68 senior citizens is currently underway, addressing the needs of the aging demographic. Infrastructure improvements are also central to Poličnik’s development plans. Minister Oleg Butković announced that work on expanding the existing state road leading to Zadar is nearing completion. This project involves building four lanes on the current two-lane road, which is crucial not just for Poličnik but also for the broader region, particularly Zadar. The expansion aims to enhance connectivity and facilitate easier movement of goods and people, further supporting the local economy. Mayor Lončar, who has served eight terms and spent 32 years in office, has consistently pursued policies aimed at sustainable development. His long tenure has allowed for consistent planning and implementation of projects that benefit both current and future generations. Despite his extended time in power, Lončar has maintained a constructive and forward-thinking approach, ensuring that each initiative contributes positively to the community. Reflecting on his career, he expressed satisfaction with the achievements made so far, acknowledging that he never anticipated reaching such levels of success.