Haushaltsrede 2025/26 der Fraktion Die Linke/Bunte Linke im Heidelberger Gemeinderat

The document is a speech titled “Haushaltsrede 2025/26 der Fraktion Die Linke/Bunte Linke im Heidelberger Gemeinderat”, authored by Bernd Zieger and published by the City of Heidelberg. It addresses the municipal council and outlines the left‑wing faction’s perspective on fiscal consolidation, social policy, and sustainable urban development in Heidelberg, a major city in Baden‑Württemberg, Germany.

The speaker proposes increasing the local trade tax multiplier (Gewerbesteuer‑Hebesatz) to 420 % to raise municipal revenues by approximately €7.9 million annually. Competing proposals range from a reduction to 390 % (potential loss of €3.9 million) to a compromise of 400 % adopted by other parties. The debate reflects concerns about attracting businesses while securing sufficient funds for public services.

High rents and a severe shortage of housing are identified as the city’s biggest problems. The speech calls for the construction of at least 5,000 new dwellings, including 1,500 social housing units. It also suggests interim uses of vacant properties for student housing and community projects, the introduction of a vacancy register, and a housing‑exchange platform. Financial incentives of €20,000–€50,000 are proposed for new community‑based housing developments, aiming to increase affordable, sustainable living options.

The speech notes that the city has failed to meet its 2025 target of a 20 % increase in public‑transport ridership. Consequently, the council approved cuts amounting to over €10 million in the transport budget, including the removal of certain bus and tram services during off‑peak times. The speaker calls for a fare‑free public‑transport system funded by commuters, businesses, and high‑wealth contributors, as well as the consideration of a local mobility surcharge.

While some social cuts (e.g., kindergarten fees, school social work) were avoided, funding for a women’s shelter was only partially approved, covering half of the requested four institutional places. The speaker stresses that the current allocation falls short of the needs dictated by the Istanbul Convention on preventing violence against women and children.

• Proposed trade‑tax increase to 420 %: +€7.9 million/year
• Opposing reduction to 390 %: –€3.9 million/year
• Transport budget cuts: >€10 million
• Housing incentive range: €20,000–€50,000 per project

The speech links fiscal policy directly to housing sustainability, arguing that increased municipal revenue can fund the construction of energy‑efficient social housing and support innovative, community‑led housing models. By addressing vacancy, promoting mixed‑use developments, and offering financial incentives, the proposal aims to alleviate the housing shortage while advancing ecological and social objectives.