Local government associations are expressing criticism regarding the federal government’s response to the growing deficits faced by municipalities across the nation. Hans-Günter Henneke, Chief Executive Officer of the German District Council (Deutscher Landkreistag), voiced concerns in an interview with the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, stating that the current governing coalition has failed to adequately prepare the public for the necessary adjustments in policy that are likely required. He suggested these adjustments may involve limitations in services.
The District Council had previously presented numerous proposals to the coalition parties, none of which were ultimately incorporated into the coalition agreement. These proposals reportedly included the extension of working lives, an idea previously introduced by Economics Minister Katarina Reiche.
Henneke also expressed disappointment with the current draft budget presented by Federal Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil. He indicated that the budget did not reflect the promises made during the recent election campaign cycle. He suggested a significant course correction at this stage would be exceptionally challenging and accused Klingbeil of lacking the necessary commitment to fiscal consolidation. He emphasized that consolidation requires a reduction of existing resources, not merely the prevention of further expenditures.