Teh city of Fribourg is facing a projected budget deficit of 19.1 million Swiss francs for 2026, representing a continued challenge for municipal finances. This shortfall, equating to 6.3% of the city’s 300.7 million franc budget, is larger than the deficit recorded in 2025 and comes despite ongoing efforts to maintain fiscal balance[[3]]. Rising personnel costs and investments tied to the Fribourg State Sanitation Plan are key factors contributing to the projected financial strain.
Keystone-SDA
The city of Fribourg is projecting a budget deficit for 2026, with a loss of 19.1 million Swiss francs. This represents 6.3% of total expenses, which are tallied at 300.7 million francs before accounting for internal allocations of 36.4 million francs.
The projected shortfall is 2.9 million francs larger than the 2025 budget deficit, equating to 1% of total expenses excluding internal allocations, the city council announced Wednesday. The development was anticipated, following a preliminary warning from City Treasurer Laurent Dietrich in May.
The city council indicated that expenses are expected to rise by 4.4%, or 12.8 million francs, largely due to increased personnel costs and the anticipated impacts of the Fribourg State Sanitation Plan (PAFE). Amortization and financial charges are also on the rise, directly linked to ongoing investments.
The city council stated it is continuing to focus on “improving existing services and infrastructure.” This budget reflects the ongoing need for municipalities to balance investment with fiscal responsibility.
