Financial Decisions in Wiesmoor: Quarterly Report and Fee Adjustments in April 2026

Quarterly Report Q1 2026: Revenues Rise, Costs Grow

The quarterly financial report for the first quarter of 2026 showed a mixed economic development in Wiesmoor. All operational departments recorded revenue increases, with the exception of the solar park, which experienced a drop of approximately €54,000 due to missing feed-in tariffs caused by an unresolved insurance decision.

At the same time, costs for raw materials, auxiliary materials, and operational supplies increased due to ongoing inflation. Particularly in the restaurant sector, material costs were slightly €10,000 lower despite higher revenues. This could indicate an optimization of procurement and cost efficiency.

Personnel and Consulting Costs: Upward Trend

Personnel costs rose due to more full-time positions and increases in the TVöD (General Agreement on Public Sector Salaries) and minimum wage. This reflects a general trend in public administration, which is increasingly focusing on personnel quality and working conditions.

Additionally, legal and consulting costs were increased due to comprehensive restaurant consulting. A review of the distribution of personnel costs among cost centers is proposed to enable more transparent financial planning.

Another important topic was the repayment of Corona subsidies. The city had to repay €18,791.65 from a provision of €17,189.56. The difference between the provision and the repayment negatively impacted the result, highlighting the uncertainties in handling state subsidies.

Cemetery Fees 2026–2028: Calculation in Focus

Another main topic in the April session was the determination of cemetery fees for the period 2026–2028. The administration proposes that the fees be structured to ensure a cost-covering settlement of chargeable activities in the field of burial services.

For the acquisition of usage rights, a 50 percent fee is planned. For graves in the community grave area, additional grave maintenance, and monuments (without engraving), the upper fee limit of 100 percent will be applied. Burial fees and cemetery maintenance fees will also remain at 100 percent. For the usage fees of the cemetery chapel and mortuary, a 50 percent fee is proposed.

The calculation was carried out by the specialized firm Heyder + Partner, which is focused on municipal consulting. The goal is to ensure a sustainable funding of cemetery operating costs without overburdening citizens.

Outlook: Stability in Focus

The decisions made in April 2026 show how Wiesmoor is dealing with the challenges of economic development. The city is relying on transparency, cost efficiency, and long-term planning. The adjustment of cemetery fees is an example of how municipal services can be designed to be financially sustainable.

In the future, it will depend on how inflation and the development of the labor market further affect the city's finances. The development of the solar park will also remain a decisive factor for the city's revenues. The April session has shown that Wiesmoor is ready to face these challenges with pragmatic solutions.