Mayor Kasche on property tax and sports field maintenance: A year in review!

Mayor Kasche on property tax and sports field maintenance: A year in review!

On July 7, 2025, Mayor Michael Kasche looked back on important developments of the past year at a district meeting in Hüllhorst. A central topic was the upcoming renovation and maintenance projects in the community. The main topics discussed were the maintenance of the sports field, road renovations and the problem of legionella in the showers in the gymnasium.

Maintaining the sports field represents a particular challenge, especially considering the legal framework for public green spaces. These are crucial for the decision on the collection of property tax. According to Section 32 GrStG, property tax for public playgrounds and sports fields can be waived if the annual costs exceed the gross profit. The costs are assessed in accordance with Section 35 Paragraph 2. Tax Schroeder informed that the property only acquires the status of public green space through the corresponding dedication, which is important in the current discussion.

Property tax and its implications

Another topic covered at the meeting was the property tax discussions. It is noted that sports fields that may be used by the public for sporting purposes are also taken into account when it comes to any taxes that may need to be waived. It is interesting that an entry fee can be charged as long as use for the general public remains guaranteed. Restrictions that restrict use to certain groups of people such as club members exclude public use and thus influence tax relevance. Westfalen-Blatt reports on the associated challenges that pose new questions to the administration in Hüllhorst.

Another pressing concern concerns the legionella problem in the gym showers, which is anything but trivial. The administration is under pressure to take appropriate measures to ensure the health of users. This question could potentially also influence upcoming renovation projects.

In conclusion, it can be said that the current discussions and developments in Hüllhorst are placing great demands on both the public and the administration. The preservation and maintenance of the sports infrastructure is essential, as is responsible use of the community's financial resources.