Budget 2026: Schönenbach is planning important projects for the future!

Budget 2026: Schönenbach is planning important projects for the future!

There are important decisions to be made in Schönenbach: At its last meeting, the local council dealt with the appropriations for the 2026 budget. Numerous projects were targeted that are intended to sustainably improve life in the community. What is particularly noticeable is the need for a new climbing frame for the kindergarten. The local council recommends that the kindergarten submit an application directly to the city of Furtwangen in order to advance the urgently needed purchase [schwarzwaelder-bote.de](https://www.schwarzwaelder-bote.de/content.finanz-2026-diese-projekte-sollen-in-schoenenbach-angehen- Werden.061bf1b7-b117-408c-918a-0968651009fa.html) reported.

The local council's wish list is long and includes some expensive items. Including a new street lamp between the cemetery and Busberg, which would cost around 10,000 euros. Another ambitious plan envisages the planning costs for a new playground in Schönenbach, which amount to at least 50,000 euros. In addition, planning an event room is essential as the Gasthaus Löwen is no longer available. 50,000 euros are also budgeted for this. A detailed review of the possible uses of the former Sonne guesthouse or the search for alternatives are also on the agenda.

Budgeting and financial challenges

If all of these projects are implemented, the community will face significant financial challenges. The city of Furtwangen has an annual budget of around 23 million euros. Smart prioritization is necessary to finance the plans. Investments in schools and broadband provision are the focus, while other projects may have to be checked for financial viability and may have to be postponed, according to ul-furtwangen.de. This highlights the need to reduce a structural budget deficit and keep spending under control.

The city administration also pays particular attention to the topic of sustainable budgeting. The high dependence on trade tax revenues makes it clear that the city is facing unforeseen financial burdens. Building reserves in good times is essential to avoid burdening future generations with debt. That is why a certain cost awareness is required in the administration, especially with regard to necessary road renovations and the maintenance of existing infrastructure.

A look beyond the city limits

The challenges facing Schönenbach and Furtwangen are part of a larger trend that cities around the world are experiencing. According to the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, 57 percent of people now live in cities, a steady increase since 1950. In order to make urban spaces sustainable, measures to improve infrastructure and urban planning are required. However, in many regions, inadequate planning is leading to urban sprawl and environmental damage that urgently needs to be addressed.

The city of Furtwangen has already taken steps in the right direction with its initiatives to invest in educational institutions and digital infrastructure. But the path to a long-term sustainable and livable urban area remains rocky and requires great commitment from administration and citizens.