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Municipal budget and taxation adjustments in Europe

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2026-10-20 14:07 UTC → 2026-10-23 12:46 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Municipalities in the Netherlands and Belgium are navigating various budgetary challenges and tax adjustments. In the Netherlands, Maasdriel has proposed a 28.3 percent increase in property tax for 2027 to address a projected 3.5 million euro deficit caused by rising youth care costs. Conversely, Vlissingen is abolishing its dog tax, a move described by Alderman Coen Bertijn as addressing an “outdated” levy, despite an expected annual revenue loss of 350,000 euros. Ridderkerk is planning to use general reserves to cover projected deficits in 2028 and 2029, which will allow them to secure a balanced budget through 2030, though residents expect increases in waste, sewage, funeral, and environmental law fees. Other Dutch municipalities report mixed outlooks: Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht has achieved a structurally balanced budget through 2030, while Beekdaelen expects a surplus in 2027 despite rising social support costs. However, Eemsdelta is preparing for potential cuts of up to €8.5 million by 2031, and Zoeterwoude warns of a projected €1.2 million deficit by 2030 due to changes in the municipal fund. In Dordrecht, the multi-year budget includes approximately €15.5 million in planned cuts alongside significant investments in urban development, including a €47.5 million reserve for the Maasterras project to mitigate construction risks. In Zaanstad, opposition parties have presented an alternative budget titled ‘Het kan écht anders!’ to counter proposed cuts to collective health insurance and income allowances. Their proposal suggests raising funds by increasing costs for tourists, motorists, and owners of vacant real estate. In Belgium, Haaltert anticipates a 1.3 million euro revenue loss due to the termination of Flemish subsidies. The city of Aalst faces a more significant potential loss of €15 million through 2031 due to Flemish government decisions, sparking political tension regarding possible cuts to education, childcare, and elderly care. Additionally, youth councils in the Vlaamse Ardennen have urged the Flemish Minister of Mobility to reconsider the reduction of bus services, warning that losing 23 out of 46 lines will impact students' access to education.

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