Suche
Mein Konto
Dispute in the local council: High costs and tax increases await Warth!
In Neunkirchen, a budget consolidation concept was adopted on November 1st, 2025, which responds to high flood protection costs.
Dispute in the local council: High costs and tax increases await Warth!
The current events in Warth have caused a stir. At the local council meeting, a budget consolidation concept was approved by the ÖVP majority, while the Greens and the FPÖ decided to vote against it. The reason for this necessary concept lies in the high costs of flood protection in the Haßbachtal. The concrete structures in Laaergraben cost around 2.2 million euros, which is 27 percent higher than the original estimates. These additional expenses pose major challenges for the community.
The Greens, represented by district spokesman Josef Kerschbaumer and local councilor Mario Maier, sharply criticize the plans because the savings from the consolidation concept are considered unclear. Kerschbaumer estimates the savings at only around 50,000 euros, which is not seen as promising in the context of the immense costs for flood protection. In addition, the planned measures such as the abolition of the heating subsidy, the increase in garbage fees and the adjustment of the development fee and dog tax could place a heavy burden on the population.
The consequences for the facilities in the community
Another shadow hanging over the plans is the closure of the kindergarten in Haßbach, which is scheduled for autumn 2026. This decision was also criticized by the Greens as it was seen as a step backwards for the community. In addition, all environmental subsidies are to be canceled, which is interpreted as a negative signal for climate protection. At a time when sustainable action is more important than ever, this abandonment could be seen as unwise.
Another point worth discussing is the planned increase in the salaries of mayors and local councilors by around 70 percent for 2023/24 and a further 4.8 percent for 2024/25. This increase will burden the municipal budget with an additional 65,000 euros annually and is met with zero understanding by opponents of the consolidation concept.
Gloggnitz shows foresight
A ray of hope comes from Gloggnitz, where consideration is being given to converting a former daycare center into a doctor's office. The new city boss René Blum also has big plans: The old town hall is to be converted into a kindergarten, as there is clearly a need for three kindergarten groups and day care. This initiative could not only meet the need for childcare places, but also bring positive development to the community.
In these challenging times, the community of Warth wants to respond to changes, but there is no question that the path will not be easy. In the coming period, the reactions of citizens and the effects of the measures decided on everyday life in Warth and Gloggnitz will be of great importance.
As for the general economic environment, a look at global markets and exchange rates could help to better understand the situation. Currently, the exchange rate between USD and EUR is 1 USD = 0.8626 EUR, which shows that the USD has lost value relative to the EUR in recent years. This could also have an impact on local economies and is a development that should be taken into consideration by community leaders. Further analysis may be necessary for a more in-depth economic outlook.