Illnau-Effretikon ends 2025 with CHF 3.6 million surplus despite rising debt
Illnau-Effretikon has closed 2025 with a budget surplus of CHF 3.6 million. The positive result comes despite rising long-term debt and higher-than-expected costs in some areas. Every municipal department managed to outperform its financial targets for the year.
The surplus was largely driven by increased revenues from ordinary taxes and capital gains taxes on real estate. Meanwhile, the education department contributed CHF 1.5 million in savings, thanks to successful student reintegration programmes and higher subsidies from the canton. The public works department also cut costs by CHF 0.7 million, reducing road investments and boosting third-party service income.
However, not all areas saw savings. Long-term care financing exceeded its budget by CHF 1.9 million, adding pressure to the town's finances. At the same time, long-term debt climbed by CHF 35 million, reaching CHF 85 million. This increase raised per capita net debt by 324 Swiss francs, bringing it to 1,898 francs. On investments, only 59% of planned net spending on administrative assets was carried out in 2025. Despite this, the self-financing ratio for tax-funded investments improved to 58%, indicating better financial stability in capital projects.
The 2025 results show a mix of financial discipline and rising financial burdens. While departments saved more than expected, long-term debt and care costs grew significantly. The town now faces the challenge of balancing surplus gains against increasing obligations in the years ahead.
