European lawmakers have been requested to vote on a proposed budget plan.
In the heart of Germany, the city of Essen finds itself grappling with a significant financial crisis. The Citizens' Alliance - Free Voters (EBB), a local political grouping known for advocating fiscal responsibility, transparency, and citizen participation, has stepped forward with a call to action.
During a recent council meeting, Kai Hemsteeg, the faction leader of EBB, revealed the city's current financial report, which shows a negative deviation of 122.6 million euros. The total debt, Hemsteeg stated, now exceeds 5 billion euros.
Hemsteeg, in a bold move, called for a clear consolidation course and the termination of the loss-making on-demand service "Bussi" by December 31, 2025. The "Bussi" service, run by the city, incurs hundreds of thousands of euros in losses annually at the expense of taxpayers.
Moreover, EBB proposes expanding debt collection efforts to recover millions in outstanding claims and hiring two financial investigators to recover lost business tax revenue.
The current financial situation in Essen is exacerbated by the city's inability to curb expenses. In November 2024, the majority under Kufen's leadership consumed a mini-surplus of 1.7 million euros instead of reducing debt. This decision, according to EBB, smacks of cynicism and a lack of statesmanlike conduct.
Mayor Thomas Kufen (CDU) has issued a warning about the potential erosion of democracy in municipalities that can no longer fulfill their tasks. However, the EBB considers his warning as an admission of failure and a diversionary tactic in light of Essen's financial disaster.
The EBB advocates for a genuine task criticism procedure to scrutinize all expenses and promote transparency. In addition, they have called for a change in leadership, suggesting Jörg Küpperfahrenberg as an independent mayor to clean up Essen.
It is essential to note that, without direct and current statements or proposals from the EBB concerning Essen’s debt, the specific actions they have proposed to address the city's financial crisis or debt situation cannot be confirmed. For detailed and up-to-date information, it is recommended to consult Essen's official municipal council releases, local news sources, or the EBB’s public communications directly.
- The Citizens' Alliance - Free Voters (EBB), a local political grouping focusing on policy-and-legislation, advocates for a consolidation course in Essen's financial crisis, including the termination of the loss-making "Bussi" service and expanding debt collection efforts.
- In the ongoing discussion about Essen's financial crisis, the EBB has proposed a change in leadership, suggesting Jörg Küpperfahrenberg as an independent mayor, and advocates for a task criticism procedure to promote transparency and scrutinize expenses.
