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Budget approval is expected in August
Darmstadt. The coalition of the Greens, CDU, Volt, and the SPD have agreed on the Medium-Term Investment Programs (MIP) for 2025 and 2026. This creates the conditions for the 2025/26 double budget to enter into force promptly. The Darmstadt Regional Council had already given a positive assessment of the operating budget before the summer holidays, but called for a reduction in the investment amounts to €75 million each.
The investment projects were adjusted to the specified financial framework in several meetings. On August 13, the city parliament voted by a majority in a special session for the MIP for both years. Budget approval by the regional council is expected before the end of August.
Planned investments and priorities
The resolutions will enable projects in the areas of education, sports, infrastructure, and digitalization to be implemented. These include:
- Construction of a new daycare center at Marienplatz
- Construction of a gymnasium to ensure the provision of sports facilities
- Rehabilitation of roads and bridges
- Construction and renovation of schools and daycare centers
- Expansion of digital infrastructure and administrative processes
For 2026, the regional council requires the 2025 annual financial statements before granting approval, which must demonstrate compliance with the overall spending reduction target of €30 million. According to Treasurer André Schellenberg, these should be submitted by February.
Flexible use of funds
According to the parliamentary groups, the MIP has been adapted to reflect reality and includes the option to shift investment funds across departments within the program. This flexibility should also allow for short-term adjustments.
The city's policy also emphasizes the importance of sufficient funding from the federal and state governments. They demand that at least 77 percent of the committed investment funds be passed on directly to the municipalities.
The approved investment programs are intended to secure the financial stability of the science city of Darmstadt and at the same time lay the foundation for future projects.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PM)
