Erlangen January 2026: Finances, Integration, and Digital Innovations in Focus

Finances and Integration in January

2026 Budget Approved

The 2026 budget was approved by the City Council on January 22. It includes an operational budget, financial budget, medium-term financial planning with an investment program, loan agreements, and tax rates. Particularly noteworthy is the city's authorization to take out cash management loans up to a certain amount to ensure liquidity until June 8, 2026. The administration was tasked with making formal and editorial adjustments without altering the content.

Bylaws of the Foreigners and Integration Advisory Council Updated

The bylaws of the Foreigners and Integration Advisory Council were revised and came into effect the day after the official announcement. The focus is on digital voting procedures, gender-sensitive terminology, and clear grounds for removal of members. Especially significant is the inclusion of refugees in the voting process, which further promotes integration in the city.

Municipal Packaging Tax Rejected

Several proposals for introducing a municipal packaging tax were submitted, including by the Green List, the Erlangen Climate List, and the SPD faction. However, these proposals were rejected because such a tax is not permissible in Bavaria due to a legal change.

KommunalBIT Invests in Modern IT

The 2026 business plan of KommunalBIT AöR was approved. It includes, among other things, the transition to Windows 11 and Microsoft 365, investments in IT security, and a budget of up to 4.12 million euros for school IT infrastructure. These measures represent a step toward modern and secure digital infrastructure for the city.

Municipal Sports Facilities and Heating Plan

Erlangen has submitted three projects for the federal funding program "Renovation of Municipal Sports Facilities". The goal is barrier-free modernization and the construction of sports facilities with climate protection benefits.

The Municipal Heating Plan (KWP) has been completed and is scheduled for approval in December 2025. It includes transformation pathways for a greenhouse gas-neutral heating supply by 2040 and is a central element of the city's climate protection strategy.

Senior Advisory Council and Disaster Protection

The Senior Advisory Council met on January 26 and addressed, among other topics, disaster and civil protection with a focus on elderly people. Andreas Schönfelder from ASB introduced himself as a member of the council. Other topics included reports from working groups and information about upcoming meetings.

Outlook

In the coming weeks and months, Erlangen will primarily focus on implementing the budget plans, digital transformation, and the climate-friendly development of the city. Key priorities include investments in schools and sports facilities, the integration of refugees, and the climate-neutral heating supply.