Budget war erupts in Bergisch Gladbach as CDU clashes with SPD and Greens
Budget talks in Bergisch Gladbach have turned into one of the most heated political battles in recent memory, according to CDU leader Michael Metten. Speaking at a BürgerClub event, he outlined his party's stance as negotiations with the SPD and Greens drag on. The CDU, holding the strongest position in the council, insists it will push forward its own proposals—even if it means relying on AfD support to secure a majority.
At the heart of the dispute lies the city's rising costs and staffing levels. Since 2020, administrative roles have surged by 29%, climbing from 1,187 to 1,528 positions—with over 100 employees now working in social affairs alone. Metten argues that not all new hires are justified and that savings must be found to rein in spending.
The CDU's top priority is blocking a sharp rise in property taxes. While the city had proposed a 100-point increase, the party is only willing to accept a 25-point hike. Metten also wants to limit new staffing, approving no more than 12 to 13 additional roles. He sees unnecessary spending in areas like public relations and social media, where cuts could free up funds for more urgent needs.
Key projects remain stalled, and the CDU is pressing for action. Schools, road repairs, and the Zanders development site are all 'far behind schedule,' Metten warned. To speed things up, the party wants extra positions for construction supervisors and regulatory staff. Yet even if a last-minute deal is struck with the SPD and Greens, Metten stressed it would not lead to a wider coalition or ongoing partnership. Despite the deadlock, the CDU shows no sign of backing down. Metten made it clear his party will keep pushing its agenda, regardless of opposition. With a voter mandate behind them, he said, they have both the duty and the resolve to shape the budget according to their priorities.
The city's administration has grown significantly, with staff numbers up nearly a third since 2020. Yet the CDU insists further expansion must be controlled, calling for a firm cap on personnel costs. The outcome of these negotiations will determine whether property tax rises are kept in check—and whether long-delayed projects finally move forward.
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