Witten in the Financial Mirror: Budget Situation, Investments, and Political Tensions in February 2026

The Budget Situation in Witten: An Overview

In February 2026, the financial situation of the city of Witten is at the center of numerous debates and decisions. While investments of nearly €40 million are planned for 2026, debt relief of approximately €188.6 million remains a central issue. In addition, the business tax is about €15 million below the planned figures, which is not surprising given the economic situation and regional development.

Investments and Debt Relief: Figures and Impacts

The debt relief of approximately €188.6 million reduces the liquidity loan balance from almost €430 million at the end of 2025 to about €240 million. This measure not only brings clarity to financial planning but also results in interest savings of around €4.9 million. Moreover, the net new debt in 2025 of approximately €30 million is significantly lower than in previous years. Investments increase from €25.4 million (2024) to €34.8 million (2025), with the majority allocated to construction projects.

An example of this is the unplanned allocation of €900,000 for the construction project "Bildungsquartier Annen – School Construction Project." These funds are drawn from various product accounts, with unused funds having to be returned to their original purpose. This illustrates the complexity and transparency in financial planning, which is becoming increasingly important in Witten.

Political Tensions Regarding the Property Tax

Substantial political tensions arose during the 2026 budget planning, particularly regarding the setting of the property tax rate B from 01.01.2026. Proposals from The Left led to losses of more than €30 million and significant interest costs, which is why the Main and Finance Committee (HFA) largely advised against such proposals. Equally controversial was the CDU proposal to make no property tax adjustments, which would have resulted in a funding shortfall of €6.5 million.

The introduction of a property tax C was rejected as legally problematic, with the HFA also largely voting against the proposals here. The debate surrounding the property tax highlights how sensitive financial decisions are in a city like Witten – they affect not only the financial situation but also social acceptance and political stability.

Culture, Urban Planning, and Bauturbo: Additional Focal Points

In addition to financial topics, cultural and urban development projects were also in focus. The HFA approved the 2026 economic plan of the Cultural Forum Witten, with the AfD casting three opposing votes. The 26th amendment to the opening hours ordinance was also discussed, with The Left casting one opposing vote.

Another important topic was the Bauturbo legislation. The HFA recommended developing a concept for the application of the Bauturbo Act and submitting it to the committee for urban development, environment, and climate. At the same time, the HFA rejected the proposal "Bauturbo – but socially oriented and ecological," indicating the tensions between rapid construction planning and sustainable urban development.

Outlook: Challenges and Opportunities

February 2026 shows how complex the financial policy in Witten is. The city faces the challenge of financing investments, reducing debt, and at the same time finding political consensus. The discussions around the property tax and Bauturbo legislation show that Witten wants not only to be financially stable but also a democratically transparent city.

The coming months will show whether the planned measures – such as the funding for the Bildungsquartier Annen or the property tax adjustments – will find the necessary stability and acceptance among the population. Witten is at a crossroads between responsibility for the present and investment in the future.