City Council approves €252M 2026 budget with major school and infrastructure upgrades
City Council Approves 2026 Budget with Major Investments in Education, Safety, and Infrastructure
In its meeting on February 19, 2026, the City Council unanimously adopted the 2026 budget, setting clear priorities in education, public safety, infrastructure, sports, and structural transformation while securing substantial investments for the years ahead.
The income statement for 2026 projects revenues of €243.5 million and expenditures of €252.0 million. After accounting for the so-called global reduction in expenses, the city faces an annual deficit of approximately €3.9 million. The use of general reserves has been budgeted accordingly, ensuring compliance with the legal requirements of North Rhine-Westphalia's Municipal Code while maintaining financial flexibility. The financial plan includes capital expenditures of around €62.9 million, with €34.1 million allocated for new borrowing. Future financial commitments total €61.9 million.
A key focus lies in education. Over €16 million has been earmarked in 2026 alone for the expansion of the Third Comprehensive School in Wevelinghoven. Additional funding includes €3.1 million for a new science building at Erasmus Gymnasium, nearly €2 million for the Wevelinghoven teaching pool, and extensive investments in expanding all-day school programs across the city. Social infrastructure will also be strengthened, with €2.9 million allocated for a new shelter for homeless individuals on Ringstraße.
In public safety, the city is investing €3.5 million in a new fire station in Kapellen, €750,000 in a vehicle bay for the Neukirchen fire department, and around €1.2 million in new fire trucks.
Significant funds have also been allocated for roads, mobility, and urban development. Key projects include €1.15 million for accessible bus stops, €920,000 for the complete renovation of the North-South Coal Railway Bridge, and €940,000 for the "Arrive in Style" project at the train station. Numerous road and bridge repairs will be carried out citywide, while development of the city center, the Flutgraben district, and the former power plant villages will continue systematically.
Mayor Klaus Krützen emphasized: "The 2026 budget is an investment budget. Despite challenging financial conditions, we are making major commitments to education, safety, infrastructure, and structural change. We are actively and responsibly shaping our city's future."
The budget resolution will now be submitted to the municipal supervisory authority and, following the statutory review period, will be published and implemented.
At the 2026 New Year's Reception held at the Old Palace, Mayor Krützen presented an overview of ongoing infrastructure projects. The corresponding video is available on the city's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4OFF21BeSl0.
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