The population increase places demands on infrastructure development.
According to the latest SCB figures, the municipality's population has grown by an impressive 780 people in just the first quarter of 2024. This surge marks the highest growth rate in all of Sweden.
Skellefteå welcomed a total of 1,368 new residents in 2024, with 794 coming from within Sweden and a notable 574 arriving from abroad. This influx, while exciting, presents challenges for the municipality.
Evelina Fahlesson (S), municipal commissioner, acknowledges the need for integration.
–The increase in international migration is a stimulating challenge that will enrich our Skellefteå, she says.
– We organize themed events and relocation days to ensure newcomers feel welcome. This effort includes collaboration with the local business community.
Looking ahead, fostering a welcoming community is crucial.
– It's important for existing residents to remain open-minded so that newcomers can truly become part of Skellefteå, Fahlesson emphasizes.
This record-breaking population increase puts strain on the development of infrastructure and essential societal functions. Fahlesson expresses frustration:
– Cooperation with the national parliament hasn't been effective. Finding a comparable Swedish city proved impossible, so we've looked across the Atlantic.
Reno, Nevada: An unlikely comparison.
–There's no city in Sweden going through a similar expansion, Fahlesson explains.
– We've drawn a parallel with Reno, Nevada, which boasts the world's largest battery factory. While not a direct comparison, it highlights our unique situation. The challenge lies in getting the government to understand Skellefteå's specific needs. Despite written communications and meetings, we haven't received a response yet.
Skellefteå's growth is a double-edged sword. While the influx of new residents brings a valuable workforce and boosts tax revenue, it also strains housing availability. Inflation further complicates matters, driving up construction costs for essential projects, such as schools in Boliden and Skelleftehamn.
Meeting housing demands remains a challenge. Ongoing construction projects haven't kept pace with population growth. However, the municipality is taking action.
Skebo, the municipality's housing company, has received significant investment (5.3 billion kronor over five years) to tackle this issue.
This ambitious project represents a quarter of all public housing construction nationwide.
Fahlesson emphasizes the importance of housing as a social right:
– We have a huge responsibility to ensure functional housing for those who choose Skellefteå.
Emigration exists alongside the influx. Despite the population boom, some residents are leaving Skellefteå.
The latest quarterly report indicates 507 departures. Fahlesson suggests higher education opportunities as a potential reason and acknowledges the need for development in this area.
– Of course, everyone who has left is welcome back, she concludes.