What the Upcoming Budget Cut for Groningen Could Mean for the City
Municipality faces a funding shortfall of €33 million from 2026, urges the national government for support.
The city of Groningen has successfully presented a balanced budget of nearly 1.5 billion euros for 2025. This allows the municipality to continue its key initiatives, including improving northern districts, supporting financial security programs like debt assistance, advancing the energy transition, and constructing more affordable housing. However, while the city is on stable financial ground for now, a major funding challenge looms beyond 2025.
From 2026, Groningen expects to lose 33 million euros annually in national government funding. This cut, referred to as the "ravine year" by municipalities across the country, could force Groningen into a difficult position, as the city relies heavily on these funds to maintain essential services and public spaces. Alderman Mirjam Wijnja (Finance, GroenLinks) has stressed the urgency of the situation, saying, “If these cuts go through, it will have irrevocable consequences for our residents.”
Impact on City Services and Daily Life
If the funding is not restored, Groningen may have to make significant sacrifices. The city could face increased local taxes or be forced to reduce its management of public spaces. This would mean fewer resources for maintaining roads, parks, and other infrastructure. "You might see litter piling up on the streets, roads left in poor condition, and slower responses to issues like vandalized benches," Wijnja explained. The city could be forced to operate with only the legal minimum, cutting back on the quality of life residents have come to expect.
Additionally, critical long-term projects could be delayed or scaled back. This includes the greening of public spaces, further investments in sustainable energy, and the continued construction of affordable housing—an area where Groningen has been trying to make significant strides. Without the funding, much of this progress could stall, affecting the city's future growth and sustainability.
Political Frustration and Push for Action
Wijnja has expressed frustration with the national government’s political choices, calling on The Hague to address the funding crisis. “There are countless reports that clearly state the government must step up and fix this, but they haven’t done it yet,” Wijnja said. She criticised the current Finance Minister's insistence on budget cuts, calling it a political choice rather than a necessity.
The alderman remains determined, however, and is committed to continuing the fight for the return of the 33 million euros. “We’ll do everything we can to protect our city and keep it thriving,” she said.