Venarey-Les Laumes’ Vision for 2026: Smart City Projects and Job Growth Amid National Economic Challenges

At a New Year's address to nearly 500 attendees in Venarey-Les Laumes, Mayor Patrick Molinoz outlined ambitious plans for the commune’s economic and urban development in 2026, despite France’s broader financial difficulties. Molinoz, who also presides over the community of communes of Pays d’Alésia and Seine, emphasized a forward-looking approach amid challenging conditions, declaring, "But the steeper the slope, the more I want to move forward."

Central to Venarey-Les Laumes’ strategy is the development of a smart and sustainable city, highlighted by the upcoming opening of the Mine (Maison de l’innovation numérique et écologique). Additionally, the municipality aims to convert all public lighting to LED with Siceco’s support, renovate sports facilities, construct a new wastewater treatment plant, repair roofs of three schools, and establish a new house for sports and community life.

Urban growth is also planned with a local urban planning plan (PLUi) designed to facilitate new housing developments. The restored port of the Canal de Bourgogne is being positioned to attract investors, including for a bakery-grocery.

Significantly, the Montbard-based company Métal Déployé Résistor is moving into a previously vacant building formerly owned by Vallourec Umbilicals, promising around 150 new local jobs, which is a key employment boost.

These local initiatives occur against a backdrop of national economic challenges. France’s economy has been described as relegated to a "second division" within Europe, with deteriorating public finances and a high debt burden projected at 2.3% of GDP in 2025—double Germany’s level. GDP per capita in France has fallen below the Eurozone average and is expected to lag behind Italy by 2026. Political fragmentation further complicates reforms, although France retains strengths in aerospace, luxury, and technology sectors.

Despite these challenges, France’s low inflation may support competitiveness, and its potential growth remains slightly above 1% annually. Venarey-Les Laumes’ local projects reflect a strategic attempt to seize growth opportunities while counterbalancing national economic headwinds.

While Mayor Molinoz reviewed his mandate and future projects during the speech, he did not announce his candidacy for the March municipal elections, citing legal constraints.

Venarey-Les Laumes’ focus on sustainable innovation, infrastructure upgrades, job creation, and urban planning represents a comprehensive vision to enhance local economic vitality amid France’s broader fiscal and economic pressures.