Since the Oberwart consolidation plan in Burgenland is an example of which austerity measures many municipalities come and why citizens will in particular feel the consequences.
A glance at Oberwart is sufficient to acknowledge how deep the financial crisis in the communities already uses. The consolidation plan decided that there is no isolated case. He stands for a savings course that becomes a reality in dozens of municipalities in Burgenland and far beyond. The fact is that the large calculation is again presented to the citizens. 30 municipalities currently have to consolidate in Burgenland, Oberwart is “voluntary”. In clear language this means: radical cuts, painting, shortening, moving.
Reimbursements, also outdoor swimming pools
For months there is already a pressure on lighting, but a relief continues to come for a long time. The financial situation in the federal government and the country seems dramatic and the question that the mayors torment in many places: what else can you expect from people? What is currently on the table in Oberwart is a glimpse into the future of many communities.
The consolidation plan brings concrete savings proposals that can also become a reality: no sacrifices from the staff, outdoor swimming pools could be closed, the costs – for example for water or waste – have to rise by a maximum of 50 percent instead of supporting the cash register, business festivals and Christmas celebrations or removed senior excursions. Many of these points are currently “only” suggestions, nothing has been implemented yet.
It will also meet the citizens
But one thing is clear: the range becomes narrower, the red pencil is sharper. Mayor Georg Rosner clearly addresses what many of his colleagues behind the scenes want to say: “Only because there is something on schedule, does not mean that it will happen. It is more about increasing the potential for savings. But the savings in the administration will not be sufficient, it will also have to be affected.”
More municipal cooperation than a way out of the cost drop
In Oberwart you therefore also think of new ways of cooperation: “Or a cross -municipal accounting – similar to the Registry Office Association – or the common use of sweeping machines and machines. Many such options are at the table and many of them have to be implemented,” Rosner emphasizes.
Can the waste deal save the communities?
A spark of hope, however, remains the Müll deal, which has been negotiated for months by Governor Doskozil (Spö): according to the Spö the first payments can flow in August or September. But the implementation drags away. The negotiations got stuck for months – ÖVP and FPö have long left and there is now talk again. The communities are waiting and the population with them.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
