"No option to hide": Left and Volt justify their approval of the budget despite CDU changes

Halle’s city council approved the 2026 budget on December 17, 2025, after a tense debate and last-minute amendments. The Left, Greens, and Volt backed the plan, securing a majority despite opposition from the AfD. The SPD abstained, citing concerns over a CDU amendment passed with AfD support that could lead to cuts in social services.

The budget vote saw sharp divisions among factions. The Left, Greens, and Volt pushed through key measures, including a freeze on dividend payout increases, new language mediation services, and doubled staffing for the Children and Youth Council. Special fee reductions for children, young people, and people with disabilities in sports facilities were also introduced. Funding was secured for local associations like the children’s hospice, adventure playground, and tourist train.

The SPD faction, led by Eric Eigendorf, chose not to vote, arguing that while the budget prevented tax hikes and supported tenants, the CDU’s late amendment—passed with AfD backing—risked undermining social and civic programmes. Eigendorf’s group had earlier supported their own proposals, such as extra staff for the Salinemuseum and increased funding for youth services, which won broad approval. Ferdinand Raabe of Volt criticised the debate, saying many arguments relied on unproven assumptions. He called for a more forward-thinking financial approach. Katja Müller, leader of The Left, defended the budget as necessary to keep Halle running, warning that rejecting it would have caused severe disruptions.

The approved budget ensures continued funding for essential services and community projects. However, the CDU’s amendment, backed by AfD votes, leaves open the possibility of future cuts in social and civic areas. The decision now sets the financial framework for Halle in 2026.

"No option to hide": Left and Volt justify their approval of the budget despite CDU changes