Leverkusen's budget crisis: saving, investing and using opportunities!

Uwe Richrath, Mayor of Leverkusen, recently emphasized the urgency to say goodbye to previous budgets. This announcement is made in the context of a significant budget crisis, which is characterized by the general economic development and associated loss of intake. The city sees itself similar to comparable municipalities and circles.

A central question that Richrath raises is how responsibly with these challenges can be dealt with. He sees his task in the need to save both sensibly and to invest in future -oriented projects. Majoring has already been made beforehand, but a more intensive examination of the actual needs is now required to receive a good life and an attractive business location for Leverkusen.

budget adjustments and austerity measures

City treasurer Michael Molitor has also announced an adaptation of the housekeeping in this context. As a first measure, a budget lock is issued to secure the annual financial statements. This budget lock takes place in accordance with Section 25 (2) of the KomHVO and in coordination with Mayor Uwe Richrath and the administrative board. The City Council of Leverkusen was informed accordingly.

The budget lock forces the administration to reduce its expenses; Only contractually or legally mandatory measures may continue to be carried out. New projects must not be started and non -mandatory measures are suspended. Despite the current difficulties, Mayor Richrath basically sees the city administration on the right track, despite the impairments by the crises.

essential investments, such as in daycare centers or new school buildings, are not affected by the budget lock. The trade tax rate remains constant at 250 points, without an increase due to the budget lock. Molitor emphasizes that the decision to reduce trade tax is still considered correct, since trade tax revenue depends heavily on economic development. In Leverkusen, 7200 companies and people are subject to trade tax, which underlines the importance of this source of income.

In addition, Richrath calls for better support for the chemical industry in order to counteract the effects of low trade tax revenue. In particular, the introduction of a bridge current price to support these energy -intensive industry is required. There is optimism that the budget lock can be limited in time, which also stimulates the city administration to make suggestions for prioritization of projects.