The town of Beckum is taking part in the ‘Local Authorities at Their Limit’ campaign day

Posters at municipal facilities are already drawing attention to the day of action.

Mayor Michael Gerdhenrich and City Treasurer Thomas Wulf have announced further high-profile campaigns: “For years, we have been calling for adequate funding to cover the responsibilities imposed on us by the federal and state governments. It is therefore important to send a united message nationwide so that action is finally taken to address this issue.”

The three leading local government associations – the German Association of Cities, the German Association of Districts and the German Association of Towns and Municipalities – are jointly calling for this day of action and urging the federal and state governments to finally take decisive action and implement effective measures to address the financial crisis facing local authorities.

Virtually all towns and local authorities are facing a historic financial crisis, though they did not bring it upon themselves. The federal and state governments set out the responsibilities but do not ensure sufficient long-term funding. For local residents, the financial difficulties facing local authorities are directly felt, as they affect many services such as the maintenance of schools, libraries, swimming pools, cultural and sporting facilities, and economic development.

“The local government financial crisis is not an abstract concept. Its effects are very real and can be felt on the ground. The federal and state governments must take action to ensure that local authorities remain able to act on behalf of their citizens,” agree mayors and treasurers, together with the leading local government associations.

Special page on the ‘Local Authorities at Their Limit’ campaign day