Penza Governor Reports on Municipal Development at Federation Council Meeting

Governor of Penza Oblast Oleg Melnichenko, who also serves as secretary of the regional branch of United Russia, presented a report on the development of municipal territories at a meeting of the Council for Local Self-Government under the Federation Council. The session was chaired by Andrey Shevchenko, head of the Federation Council Committee on Federal Structure, Regional Policy, Local Self-Government and Northern Affairs.

The discussion focused on government support measures aimed at increasing the revenue base and investment attractiveness of municipalities, as well as on creating a comfortable urban environment and overcoming legal barriers that hinder effective territorial development. Melnichenko highlighted successful practices from his region and outlined the main challenges in the socio-economic development of municipal areas.

According to the regional government press service, Melnichenko emphasized the effectiveness of state support in building social, engineering and road infrastructure in populated areas, which in turn stimulates housing construction. Under the "Stimulus" program from 2021 to 2024, more than 20 engineering and road projects were completed in Penza and the satellite city of Sputnik, enabling the construction of about one million square meters of housing.

"The 'Stimulus' program was completed in 2024. It is probably necessary to return to this program because it has truly proven itself in terms of developing key populated areas," Melnichenko proposed. He also reported on the renewal of communal infrastructure in municipalities, including water supply systems, gas networks and elevator equipment.

Melnichenko further detailed the region's participation in the "Formation of a Comfortable Urban Environment" program under the national project "Infrastructure for Life." During its implementation, more than 700 public spaces have been improved across Penza Oblast. Additionally, since 2021, the region has carried out nine major renovation projects thanks to victories in an all-Russian competition for urban projects.

Following the meeting, a set of recommendations was developed to enhance participation in national, federal and regional projects in order to improve citizens' quality of life and strengthen local budget revenues through increased investment.