Budget 2025 in Prenzlau: Stability despite warning signs and mayoral election!

Budget 2025 in Prenzlau: Stability despite warning signs and mayoral election!

The last city council meeting in Prenzlau before the summer break caused a stir. The budget for 2025 was approved with a unanimous vote. Mayor Hendrik Sommer, who bowed out of his last regular meeting, emphasized the importance of this budget, which signals both stability and warning signs. The new mayor will be elected on September 28th, which will put additional pressure on future financial policy.

Uwe Schmidt from the SPD praised the treasury for preparing the budget under difficult conditions. But there is a shadow over the matter: the expected losses in property tax B of around four million euros could put a strain on the city's financial situation. “Reserves balance the budget,” says Schmidt, “but we also have to point out savings.”

Challenges and opportunities

Felix Teichner from the AfD sees the causes of the deficit in politics at the federal and state levels and criticizes the withdrawal of funds. He praised the treasury, whereupon Andreas Meyer from the CDU emphasized that the city was debt-free. “Despite the deficit, we remain debt-free and are planning 7.6 million euros for investments,” explains Meyer and calls for economic action without new loans.

The financial situation is tense, but there are also positive approaches: Anne-Frieda Reinke from Die Linke appeals not to make any savings in the areas of education, culture and sports. “These areas are crucial to the future of our city.” Mayor Sommer highlights the solid financial policy of the last few years, which continues to allow room for maneuver.

Comprehensive finances in Germany

The challenges that can also be felt in Prenzlau are not isolated. Many municipalities in Germany are struggling to balance their budgets. The German Institute for Urban Studies (Difu) has identified a great need for action in municipal investment planning. Difu plans to support municipalities in long-term planning. A digital control tool is being developed that allows evidence-based assessments of the long-term effects of investments.

The federal government has also responded to the growing financial challenges and is planning comprehensive structural reforms to promote investment, such as the federal government reported. Measures such as an immediate investment program and a reduction in corporate tax by 2032 aim to create planning security for companies.

These developments are not only important for Prenzlau, but also apply to many cities in Germany. Demographic change, the shortage of skilled workers and the challenges of digitalization require well-thought-out solutions and a solid financial basis.

Overall, the 2025 budget shows that Prenzlau remains on a stable course, but the coming months and the new mayoral election may require new directional decisions. One thing is certain: in order to do business successfully these days, you need good skills.