Baunatal under pressure: Record deficit forces drastic austerity measures!

Baunatal under pressure: Record deficit forces drastic austerity measures!

In a tense financial situation, Mayor Henry Richter presents the budget for the years 2025 and 2026 in Baunatal. As NH24 , the large deficit post of EUR 38.4 million for 2025 and a forecast of 6.4 million euros in the city council (Stavo) was discussed placed. These sums are frightening and raising questions about future investments.

The causes of the critical budgetary situation are diverse. Inflation pressure, increasing costs in the social area and, last but not least, the historically high tariff degrees at the municipal level, many municipalities, even in Baunatal, hardly leave any scope to cope with their expenses. The President of the German City Day, Markus Lewe, points out that a decline in municipal investments from 2025 is in prospect. A lack of funding from the Federal Government exacerbates the situation, as well as planned savings and reforms

Henry Richter emphasizes that the city is forced to save in social areas and maintenance. The recommendations of the consulting company Schüllermann and Partner include the closure of sports facilities and the financial participation of clubs in the costs. Furthermore, the introduction of a tourism tax and parking fees is discussed to generate new income.

The investments for the coming years amount to a total of 21.8 million euros, which is a considerable amount for a city like Baunatal. Despite the tense financial situation, expenses for the renovation of daycare centers and the expansion of residential areas are planned, as well as hna reported. However, it remains questionable whether these measures are sufficient to stabilize the budget in the long term.