Municipal Update Siegen: March 2026 in Focus

What was important this month

• 2026 Budget Approved: The 2026 budget proposal was confirmed, despite a deficit of 29.1 million euros.
• Strengthening Integration: Funding for intercultural projects has been increased, and an action day against racism is planned.
• Infrastructure investments: 45 million euros from the NRW Infrastructure Act Fund for future projects.
• Property tax legal discussions: New rulings have sparked discussions on tax rates.
• Personnel development: Personnel costs have risen to 105.8 million euros, as have transfer expenditures.

Budget and Finance: Deficits and Investments

In March 2026, the 2026 budget was the focus. Despite a deficit of 29.1 million euros, the draft was approved by the district committees. The liquidity gap stands at 36.5 million euros, with 32.6 million euros to be covered by loans. Investments in 2026 amount to 61.5 million euros, with a focus on education, energy, and infrastructure.

Cash loans have risen sharply in recent years – from 90 million euros (2009) to currently 200 million euros. The business tax remains the most important source of income at 100 million euros, followed by income tax (60.3 million euros) and property tax B (26 million euros).

Budget planning is based on legal foundations such as the NRW GO and the NW KAG. Financial aspects such as debt restructuring and repayments play a central role.

Integration and Equal Opportunities: More Funding, More Engagement

The city of Siegen is focusing on greater inclusion and intercultural encounters. In March, it was decided to increase funding for intercultural coexistence and migrant self-organization – from 6,900 euros to 11,000 euros and from 4,600 euros to 8,000 euros respectively.

An action day against racism on 21.03.2026 has been announced, and the award ceremony for intercultural engagement is planned for November. The city also supports participation in the committee's rules of procedure and has updated flyers available in town halls.

Urban Development and Infrastructure: Investments and Planning

In urban development, 2026 focuses on preparations for future projects. The NRW Infrastructure Act Fund provides 45 million euros for the period 2025–2036 – approximately 3.7 million euros per year. The largest investments in 2026 amount to around 40 million euros, including the planned construction of a new indoor swimming pool, still scheduled for 2029.

Legal questions regarding property tax were also discussed, particularly after the ruling of the Administrative Court of Gelsenkirchen on 04.12.2025. These developments could influence tax rates in Siegen.

Administration and Personnel: Rising Costs

Personnel and transfer expenditures are rising significantly. In 2026, 105.8 million euros will be spent on personnel – 5.5 million euros more than in 2025. Transfer expenditures are increasing by 24.5 million euros to 223.9 million euros. At the same time, social transfers are decreasing by 10.2 million euros to 98.9 million euros.

The district levy is also rising by 13.7 million euros to 97 million euros. The personnel structure in district committee VI is diverse: 18 deputies, 13 honorary members, and 11 full-time staff.

Looking Beyond the Topics

The developments in Siegen reflect a tough financial course: deficits remain, but investments in education, energy, and infrastructure show a willingness to ensure future viability. At the same time, the city is focusing on social integration and intercultural encounters – a contradiction to the austerity measures, which will be particularly noticeable in the coming years.

The legal discussion around property tax shows that the city must remain flexible in response to new rulings. And with rising personnel and transfer costs, the administration will continue to rely on efficiency and transparency.

Conclusion and Outlook

March 2026 was a month of decisions and planning in Siegen. The budget was approved, investments are planned, and the city is focusing on greater inclusion. The challenges are great – but the conditions for sustainable development are in place.

In April 2026, it will be about implementing the adopted measures. The development of the new indoor swimming pool and the property tax debate will be particularly interesting. Citizens are still called upon to participate – whether in committees, at action days, or through active participation in local life.