Dessau-Roßlau: Monthly Blog February 2026 – Investments, Renovations and Financial Decisions

Urban Development in Focus: Renovations, Investments and Budget Decisions

What was important this month

• The daycare center "Buratino" will undergo comprehensive renovation in several construction phases – including the installation of a heat pump and fire protection measures.
• The 2026 budget plan includes an investment loan of 19.1 million euros.
• The Marienkirche (St. Mary's Church) and the Scientific Library at Palais Dietrich will receive renovation measures.
• Nancy Mergenthaler is reappointed to the Children's Welfare Committee.
• The rental price index is further developed – an important tool for transparency in the housing market.

Finances: Budget Decisions and Investment Plans

In February 2026, several important financial decisions were made that will shape the future development of Dessau-Roßlau. The 2026 budget plan includes an investment loan of 19.1 million euros, which will be allocated for the renovation and modernization of municipal infrastructure. In addition, a revised economic plan for the Dessau Municipal Hospital was approved, with a budget framework of 176.5 million euros.

Another financial focus was the renovation of the Scientific Library. The original budget of 10.358 million euros was adjusted to 12.304 million euros, with an additional 925,100 euros allocated for the third construction phase. These measures emphasize urban planning as a long-term investment in education and culture.

Urban Development: Renovations and Infrastructure

Extensive renovation work has begun at the daycare center "Buratino" in Meinsdorf. The measures include the replacement of the heating system with a heat pump, fire protection measures, and the renovation of the façade and roof. The costs have increased from 4.9 million to 5.7 million euros, with 30% of the eligible costs being supported by state funding. Due to contamination and fire protection issues, a complete evacuation was necessary – the city has already provided a temporary alternative location for the children.

Also decided were the renovation of the Marienkirche and the further development of the qualified rental price index. The latter is a key factor for transparency and equality in the housing market and will allow for more accurate evaluations in the future.

Administration and Law: Structure and Staffing

In the administrative sector, personnel and structural decisions were made. Nancy Mergenthaler was reappointed as a voting member of the Children's Welfare Committee. Dr. Ing. Joachim Nothdurft was appointed as the alternate member. In addition, members were appointed to the Supervisory Board of BUGA Dessau-Roßlau 2035 gGmbH, demonstrating the city's continued close ties to forward-looking projects.

The meetings of the municipal councils proceeded largely as planned. No financial decisions were made in Roßlau and Kleinkühnau, while important renovation projects were approved in Waldersee and Meinsdorf. As usual, the meetings were publicly documented and made available digitally.

Cross-Cutting Themes: Investments in Infrastructure and the Future

The decisions of February show that Dessau-Roßlau is focusing on long-term development in infrastructure, education, and administration. The extensive renovation projects – particularly at the daycare center Buratino and the Marienkirche – highlight the focus on sustainability and safety. At the same time, the city's role as a cultural and educational hub is reinforced by investments in the Scientific Library.

In the financial sector, it becomes clear that the city is willing to take investment risks to build for the long-term future. The rental price index and renovation measures are steps toward transparency and sustainability – two key words for the city's future.

Concluding Summary and Outlook

February 2026 in Dessau-Roßlau was characterized by investment decisions, renovation measures, and personnel news. The city is consciously investing in its infrastructure, administration, and cultural institutions. This reflects a clear development strategy that is oriented toward sustainability, safety, and transparency.

In March, further discussions on BUGA 2035, possible expansions in the education sector, and the continuation of renovation projects are expected. The city remains on a course that meets both current and future needs of the population.