Budget Decisions and Investments in Wachtberg – March 2026

Budget Decisions and Investments in Wachtberg – March 2026

In March 2026, the municipality of Wachtberg intensified its investments in infrastructure and municipal facilities. With a number of approved projects, unplanned expenditures, and long-term concepts, it became clear that the budget is not only carefully structured for the current year but also for the coming years. The focus was particularly on the financing of construction projects, the renovation of municipal facilities, and long-term planning in the area of wastewater disposal.

Unplanned Expenditures and Reallocation of Funds

A central topic was the approval of an unplanned expenditure for the replacement procurement of vehicles for the municipal construction yard. Originally, a budget of 70,000 € was planned, but the actual costs amounted to approximately 95,000 €, resulting in additional costs of 25,000 €. To finance these, the administration proposed a reallocation of funds between two investment projects (I-Project 5.000070 and I-Project 5.000027). The Finance Office approved the budget overrun, which shows that there is flexibility in the budget system to manage unforeseen costs.

Additionally, an unplanned expenditure of 860,000 € for the renovation of the indoor swimming pool and the expansion of the catering area with outdoor facilities was approved. This project is financed from the budget of the extension GS Niederbachem and underlines the importance of investments in local leisure facilities and tourist attractions.

Wastewater Disposal Concept 2026–2031

Another focus was the approval of the Wastewater Disposal Concept (ABK) for the period 2026–2031. The total investment volume for this period is 16,222 T€, distributed on average at 2,451 T€ per year. In the initial years, particularly 2026–2029, higher investment sums are planned, as sewer renewal and measures from the emission and pollution survey of the Godesberger and Mehlemer Baches are in the foreground.

For maintenance work (e.g., repairs), 1,800 T€ are planned for the entire period. The municipal council had already recommended the adoption of the ABK in February 2026, which was finally passed by the municipal council on 11 March 2026. In addition, the administration was instructed to submit the concept for review with the Regional Government of Cologne in the short term, which shows that legal and planning compliance is also ensured in this area.

Business Plan and Fee Development

In March 2026, the business plan of the municipal utility company Wachtberg, AöR for the fiscal year 2026 as well as the result and financial planning for 2025–2029 was also unanimously approved. The calculation of fee requirements for the wastewater sector was also confirmed, meaning the financing of wastewater disposal for the year 2026 is secured. In addition, the 20th amendment to the contribution and fee regulation for the drainage fee regulation was unanimously approved, indicating a transparent and consumer-friendly fee policy.

Conclusion

The budget decisions in March 2026 show that Wachtberg is consciously investing in the future. Whether in the procurement of construction vehicles, the renovation of municipal facilities, or the long-term planning of wastewater disposal – the municipality is relying on careful financial planning and flexibility in the budget. The approvals of unplanned expenditures and investments reflect priorities aimed at creating a modern, livable, and economically stable municipality.