Bonn is struggling with financial difficulties: help from the state remains uncertain!

Bonn is struggling with financial difficulties: help from the state remains uncertain!

The city of Bonn is faced with significant financial challenges. Due to a heavily deficit budget, described as “deep red,” measures are needed to stabilize finances. A central aspect here is considerations for improving the financial situation. Possible support could come from the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, but it is warned that Bonn should not expect too much from this aid program, as it is primarily intended for structurally weak municipalities ga.de reports.

In order to ease the financial pressure, the city council recently passed the double budget for 2025 and 2026. This budget resolution represents a significant step towards reversing the trend in annual new borrowing and stipulates that there will be no increases in property or business taxes. From 2026 onwards, the annual deficit is to be reduced by more than 30 million euros and in 2027 by around 50 million euros, as stated in the Green Bonn is held.

Investments in the future despite pressure to save

Despite the need to save, Bonn is focusing on key future investments that are anchored in the new budget. Investments totaling 70 million euros are planned for school buildings by 2025. Other important items include 86 million euros to improve public transport services, 11 million euros for walking and cycling and 17 million euros for measures from the climate plan. In addition, 29 million euros are available for further investments.

One focus is on budget consolidation that does not involve a “lawnmower principle” in order not to impair the quality of life of citizens. The offers of the Bonn ID card as well as the subsidies for the independent cultural scene remain in effect. Around 150,000 euros are to be made available annually through the district councils for consumption and 80,000 euros for investments for smaller projects.

Social initiatives and environmental projects

In addition, the city has budgeted 500,000 euros for generation-friendly green urban design. The protection of nature reserves will also be better promoted through a reallocation of funds. The financing of the open all-day school (OGS) for the school year 26/27 is to be secured with 3.8 million euros. In addition, 127,000 euros will be made available to strengthen street work, and over 80,000 euros are planned annually to maintain the youth campsite in Bad Godesberg.

Another element of the new budget is the continuation of the “Anonymous Health Certificate” pilot project, which is important for many citizens. Investment grants amounting to 400,000 euros are being made available to promote affordable housing. Despite this progress, the city remains faced with future challenges, particularly due to structural underfunding by the federal and state governments.

The budget resolution accelerates political work in 2025 and 2026 and thus lays the foundation for the coming challenges and developments in Bonn.