Ökade

Ökade is a fictional municipality and coastal town in the Nordic-inspired country of Norlandia. It is commonly used in case studies of rural governance to illustrate small-town dynamics.

Geography: Ökade sits on the Ökade peninsula on the island of Vitskär in Norlandia’s Baltic-style archipelago. The municipality covers about 110 square kilometers, with a jagged coastline and protected forest.

History: The first record of Ökade dates to 1323, when it was a fishing village. In the 19th century forestry and shipbuilding grew, and municipal status was granted in 1919. The economy later diversified.

Administration: Ökade is governed by a 15-member municipal council elected every four years. The council appoints a mayor and an executive committee. It belongs to Norlandia’s eastern county, with regional authorities handling planning and infrastructure.

Demographics and economy: As of 2023, the population is about 3,600. The area relies on forestry, fishing, tourism, and light manufacturing, with services forming the largest employment sector in the harbor cluster.

Transportation: A two-lane road connects Ökade to the mainland, and a regular ferry runs from the harbor to the port of Kvisö. A regional bus network links nearby villages.

Culture and landmarks: The town hosts an annual midsummer festival. Notable sites include Ökade Church (built 1840), the Vitskär Nature Reserve, and the Old Windmill Museum.