Filderstadt in financial distress – Where does the city have to save money now?

Filderstadt in financial distress – Where does the city have to save money now?

Filderstadt, the second largest city in the Esslingen district, faces massive financial challenges in the coming years. The current budget draft for 2026/2027, which was presented by treasurer Georg Braunmüller, points to the precarious conditions. The city is living beyond its means and urgently needs loans to cover current expenses. According to the figures presented in the draft budget, revenues of almost 169 million euros are expected for 2026, while expenses are expected to be 189 million euros.

The city is forecasting a similar deficit for 2027. Particularly worrying is the decline in trade tax revenue, which is estimated at more than 10 million euros per year. In addition, expenses are rising continuously - from 177 million euros this year to 189 million euros in 2026 and even 196 million euros in 2027. A large part of these expenses is attributable to transfer expenses and personnel costs, which are expected to rise to 64.4 million euros by 2027.

Financial strategies and savings

Despite this tense financial situation, Filderstadt plans to invest almost 136 million euros, particularly in building and civil engineering projects. In order to keep costs under control, savings measures are planned. The mayor Christoph Traub expresses criticism of the high burden of responsibility that is transferred from the state and federal government to the municipalities. In this context, the city has already drawn up a list of more than 160 suggestions for task criticism.

The city is relying on three basic measures: a critical review of tasks, analysis of existing standards and structural adjustments within the administration. But according to experts, savings in personnel could lead to a loss of performance for the population.

Focus on tax increases

The city is also planning a series of tax increases to cover the deficits. The dog tax has already been increased and further adjustments are being discussed. The trade tax assessment rate should increase by 15 points to 410 percent. The assessment rate for property tax B is also to be increased from 195 to 205 percent, while the assessment rate for property tax A remains at 390 percent for the time being.

The further timetable stipulates that the parliamentary groups will give their budget speeches on December 15th and the double budget will be passed on March 16th, 2026. The Free Voters have already signaled that they do not want to approve the draft in its current form, particularly because of the planned tax increases and the lack of any approach to savings in personnel.

As a city with a convenient transport location on the B 27, the A 8 motorway and close to Stuttgart Airport, Filderstadt with its 46,693 inhabitants is lively and has twin city relationships with five cities in Europe, including cities in France, England, Ukraine and Saxony. But the current financial challenges could have a lasting impact on the city's future.