St. Gallen Municipal Leaders Reject 2026 Relief Package Over Weak Reforms
The Association of St. Gallen Municipal Presidents (VSGP) has firmly rejected the 2026 Relief Package (EP2026). In a recent general assembly, members argued the proposal fails to meet its original goals. Instead, the group is pushing for a stricter austerity programme and faster reforms in key areas like asylum policy.
During its latest meeting, the VSGP voted unanimously against the EP2026. The assembly criticized the package for not delivering on its promised cost-cutting measures. Members insisted on replacing it with a real austerity plan, one that includes clear administrative reforms and spending reductions.
The organization has already put forward detailed proposals to the Cantonal Council. These include cuts in personnel and procurement, along with a review of state spending to bring it down to legally required levels. The VSGP also offered its support in identifying areas where budgets could be trimmed or reallocated more efficiently.
Beyond financial reforms, the VSGP called for urgent changes to the asylum system. It demanded a faster timeline for restructuring and a clearer division of responsibilities by the end of 2028. The group's stance has gained backing from the Finance Commission (FiKo), which echoed the need for a more rigorous austerity programme.
Following the assembly's decision, the VSGP instructed its leadership to formally oppose the EP2026 in Parliament. The focus now shifts to developing an alternative plan, one that aligns with the VSGP's push for deeper cooperation between municipalities and stricter fiscal controls.
The VSGP's rejection of the EP2026 sets the stage for a new round of budget negotiations. With concrete proposals already submitted, the Cantonal Council will now consider alternative measures for cost-cutting and system reforms. The group's willingness to assist in reviewing expenditures could shape future spending policies in St. Gallen.
Read also:
- American teenagers taking up farming roles previously filled by immigrants, a concept revisited from 1965's labor market shift.
- Weekly affairs in the German Federal Parliament (Bundestag)
- Landslide claims seven lives, injures six individuals while they work to restore a water channel in the northern region of Pakistan
- Escalating conflict in Sudan has prompted the United Nations to announce a critical gender crisis, highlighting the disproportionate impact of the ongoing violence on women and girls.
