Oldenburg in February 2026: Budget, Stadium, and Integration in Focus

Finances in Focus: Budget Passed, Deficits Remain

The 2026 budget was approved with a volume of 880 million euros – a significant event for the city of Oldenburg. However, the overall budget result remains negative: a deficit of 69 million euros and a net new debt of 79.8 million euros is planned. Over the next four years (2026–2029), the total deficit will rise to 453.3 million euros, making liquidity loans necessary from 2026 onwards.

The business tax increased by 58 million euros to 227 million euros, while savings in the operating budget amount to only 100,000 euros – a point of criticism, particularly from the Greens, who rejected the budget and demanded a flat-rate adjustment of 2% for providers. The BSW faction also criticized the budget and rejected projects such as the Flötenteichbad.

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Stadium Reconstruction: Basic Decision Made, Funding Uncertain

The basic decision for the new stadium construction was unanimously approved. However, the concrete funding remains unclear. A model similar to that in Osnabrück, where the club covers 50% of the costs, is being discussed. However, 100% funding from tax revenues is being rejected.

The current deficit of the VFB stadium is 2.65 million euros in 2029. Issues discussed also included grants, number of toilets, notification documents, and the State Aid Number. A public referendum was not conducted, which sparked debate.

In addition, the FDP requested a revision of the subsidy guidelines for roof and façade greening in order to reduce bureaucratic hurdles.

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Integration and Security: New Measures for Protection and Awareness

In the field of integration and migration, several initiatives were launched aimed at increasing inclusion and security. The police training plan will now include intercultural competence and education against racial profiling. At the same time, the expansion of outpatient support services against violence against women is being advanced – with barrier-free women’s shelters and additional training.

A flyer against female genital mutilation has been printed, and awareness workshops for associations are planned. The Valentine's Day campaign with bike seat cushions was repeated, although concerns were raised about the statement “I love you, you belong to me only.”

In March 2026, the Oldenburg Weeks Against Racism will take place, followed by the Diversity Day on May 19, 2026 – further steps toward a more open city society.

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Sports and Infrastructure: Planning and Transparency in Focus

The CDU called for a status report on the implementation of the changing rooms project in the Sportpark Dornstede, as there have been delays and uncertainties in the schedule. In addition, the priority list for artificial turf fields should be continued, and the city sports association should be involved in the planning.

The discussion on transparency in sports issues remains – not least due to the stadium issue – a central point in city politics.

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Connections: Budget Pressure Affects Stadium and Integration

The budget situation and the funding of the stadium form an important tension point in current Oldenburg politics. While the city is investing in sports infrastructure, cuts must be made in other areas. This is evident, for example, in the reduction of the Food Council by more than 50%.

At the same time, it is clear that integration and social security are moving into the spotlight – not least through initiatives against racism and violence. The balance between investing in the future and adhering to financial limits will be crucial in the coming months.

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Conclusion and Outlook

February 2026 was marked in Oldenburg by important budget decisions, an unanimous basic decision on the stadium reconstruction, and new initiatives for integration. The financial situation remains critical, and the discussion on transparency and bureaucratic simplification runs through several topics.

In the coming weeks, the focus will be on the funding of the stadium, the implementation of the budget plans, and the further development of integration policy. Citizens can expect more transparency, but also challenges in budget management.