2026 Budget: Room to Continue Investing in a Future-Ready Municipality

Balanced budget

“As a council, we are pleased that we have a balanced budget,” says Evert Jan Slootweg, Alderman . “Of course, we will continue to keep a close eye on our spending, but we remain fully committed to providing quality services and building a future-proof municipality. The municipal council this budget in October.”

Housing and the Living Environment: Building the Future

In 2026, the municipality will continue to invest in housing and the living environment. “We are taking a more proactive approach to housing development that meets local needs,” explains Slootweg. “In addition, we are continuing the development of Lauwe voor Later and making business parks more future-proof and sustainable.”

Healthcare, Youth, and Community: Close by and Accessible

The municipality remains committed to prevention and support. “Think of a Youth Mental Health Care Assistant, organizing activities, and working to reduce alcohol consumption and nuisance,” said the Alderman. “We are also focusing on healthy aging, with fall prevention, informational sessions on dementia, and better support for family caregivers. At the same time, we are taking measures to keep care accessible and affordable.”

Sustainability and Energy: Moving Forward Together

West Maas en Waal is taking significant steps towards a sustainable region. “We are delivering the first feasibility study for a heat network, continuing to promote insulation subsidies, and strengthening the electricity grid,” says Slootweg. “Additionally, we are establishing a local community fund so that revenues from solar parks benefit the immediate surroundings.”

Safety and Quality of Life: Resilient and Connected

Finally, the municipality is investing in safety and social cohesion. “We are working to combat crime that undermines society, strengthen social resilience, and improve traffic safety by raising awareness, especially among young people and seniors,” Slootweg concludes.

Many austerity measures have been reversed

Thanks to additional funding from the national government, many previously announced budget cuts can be reversed. However, a small number of measures are still necessary to balance the budget. The municipal executive has carefully weighed these options and sought to minimize the impact on residents. The increase in property tax will be smaller than previously planned. Many social services will remain intact, such as informal care, toddler care, and sports coordinators. We will be actively working on public spaces, such as the center of Beneden Leeuwen and Rooijsestraat in Dreumel.

municipal council

The municipal council the budget on October 28 and make a decision on November 5. The budget provides an overview of the municipality’s financial situation and its plans for the coming year.