Budget 2026: Moers in Deficit with High Investment Needs

Budget 2026: Moers in Deficit with High Investment Needs

The financial planning of the city of Moers for the year 2026 reflects not only the current economic situation but also the strategic priorities of municipal development. With a deficit of 42.8 million euros and an investment need of 47.1 million euros, Moers faces a financial challenge that presents both opportunities and risks.

Deficit, Loans, and Liquidity Security

The 2026 budget shows a deficit of 42,838,812 euros. To finance this deficit, a loan authorization of 47,114,960 euros has been requested. The loan framework for liquidity security has been set at 340 million euros, which clearly shows that Moers remains dependent on external financing.

The average interest rate on the loans is 2.237%, which appears relatively moderate in the current interest rate environment. However, it should be noted that loan acquisitions in 2026 have already taken place in several tranches, including 271 million euros in January and 270 million euros in February.

The net new debt limit has been set at 17 million euros, although the investment-related loan requirement is significantly higher (30.1 million euros). This shows that Moers is willing to exceed the debt limit in order to advance investments in the municipal sector.

Authorization Transfers and Investment Planning

Another focus of the 2026 budget is the transfer of authorizations from 2025. In the consumption area, 3.7 million euros were transferred, and in the investment area as much as 141.4 million euros. However, 27.3 million euros were not transferred, which indicates delays or a lack of prioritization in certain projects.

The commitment authorizations for future investment disbursements amount to 140.3 million euros, which underlines the financial orientation towards long-term investments. Particularly affected are functional areas such as infrastructure (40.2 million euros) and schools (8.8 million euros).

Taxes, Fees, and Parental Contributions

In the area of taxes and fees, Moers remains relatively stable. The business tax rate has been set at 495%, which is in the middle range compared to other cities. The property tax A remains at 521%, property tax B1 for residential properties at 827%, and property tax B2 for non-residential properties at 1,377%.

A new focus is on parental contributions in child day care facilities and full-day schools. These contributions are now more closely aligned with income groups and care hours. The meals fee regulation has been set: 59.40 euros per month per child, with the possibility of a waiver for certain groups. The new regulation comes into effect on 01.05.2026.

Citizen Participation and Citizen Budget

In March 2026, the idea of a citizen budget was discussed for the first time. This involves a citizen budget that could be anchored in the municipal budget. A model is proposed in which 1 to 3 euros per resident would flow into a citizen budget, which could be prioritized by the population itself. Another model is the Future Budget, which focuses exclusively on children and youth.

In addition, a Citizens Council will be financially supported – for example, through the federal program "Democracy in Action". Pilot projects such as MiMaCo's (Participation Coaches) in schools are intended to strengthen democratic discourse. A cross-media concept for the dissemination of participation is also planned.

Staff Structure and Equality

Another important topic is the staff structure in the city administration. With a female share of 66.3% in the administration, Moers is significantly above average. The goal is to increase the female share in higher income groups (from A11) to at least 53%, particularly in the technical administration, where the current female share is 41.07%.

It is also stipulated that two-thirds of any newly available positions should be allocated to women, provided they are equally qualified. This goal is part of the equality strategy of the city of Moers and is also reflected in part-time employment, where 469 women and 81 men are employed part-time.

Outlook: 2026 Budget as a Starting Point for Future Investments

The 2026 budget is more than just a financial plan – it is a framework for the future development of the city of Moers. With a deficit of over 42 million euros and an investment need of 47 million euros, it is clear that Moers relies on external financing, particularly through loan acquisitions and grants.

At the same time, however, a clear focus is placed on investments in education, infrastructure, and citizen participation. The prioritization of municipal construction projects, the support of educational projects, and the introduction of a citizen budget make it clear that Moers is not only financially, but also politically and socially betting on growth and participation.

The challenge in the coming years will be to implement the investment plans without exceeding debt limits and at the same time further strengthening social justice and equality.