In the recent Council meeting, several important topics were on the agenda: the 2026 budget, the forestry plan and the fight against the Hercules dam. It became clear that the financial leeway of the local community was becoming narrower. The budget had already been discussed in the main and financial committee in advance.
Manuel commented on the budget that both levies and personnel costs have increased by around 100,000 euros each. As a result, the financial situation continues to deteriorate and the municipality will also have to deal with an improvement in the revenue situation in the future. In addition, special expenses in the nursery area were spread over two years and the result seems cheaper.
Investments have also shown that not everything can be implemented at the same time. The parking garage at the hospital is off the table, instead a parking lot is to be built. In the area of ‘Oberm Kappesgarten’, implementation is probably more realistic from 2027 onwards. Stefan also asked about possible additional payments in the land purchase, after the valuation of the areas has increased significantly.
Another important point was the follow-up order for the control of the herculean dam on the waters. The plant is dangerous because of its phototoxic effect and its elimination remains laborious, but necessary. Manuel asked whether the fight has had an impact in previous years, so that a lasting success can occur in the coming years. This was affirmed by the person responsible for VG-Werke. In the end, the measure was adopted by a majority, accompanied by mulching and possible cover by films on some affected areas.
The Forestry Plan 2026 showed that although the deficit is improving, the forest continues to suffer from the consequences of the past dry years, reforestation costs and wild bite. The course taken therefore remains cautious and geared towards long-term stability.
Also under "Communications and enquiries" concrete problems from everyday life were addressed: Stefan addressed pollution on Heilbornweg, which Alessa confirmed with complaints on Environment Day. Manuel asked the administration to ask the farmer to clean a path he had polluted. A Dernbach citizen had pointed out the maladministration to us.
Our conclusion: In Dernbach, there is still a need for investment in larger projects, but financial pressure is growing. This makes it all the more important to prioritize projects cleanly and to ask critical questions.
English (UK)