Metropolis adopts 2026 budget with borrowing

The metropolitan council finally approved its 2026 budget on October 15, using borrowed funds to cover a financial shortfall. This budget replaces one previously imposed by the regional prefect after a failed vote in April, ending a six-month dispute between mayors and council members over how to close a 144 million euro gap.

Budget gap closed with savings and borrowing

After implementing savings and cuts across various areas, which freed up around 90 million euros, an additional 50 million euros were still needed. The mayors rejected proposals to reduce subsidies to local communes and tax breaks, and instead opted for a financial maneuver described as a "bookkeeping trick" by a financial expert.

Financial maneuver described as borrowing

The maneuver involves using a system of interconnected financial accounts to replenish investment amortizations, a move that effectively amounts to borrowing. This approach reduces the intercommunality’s savings by 52 million euros and could impact borrowing rates and debt reduction capacity, which would increase from 9.9 years to 13.7 years.

Council condemns state cuts and seeks action

The council passed a unanimous motion condemning state-imposed cuts and urging the government to stop "making another bloodletting on our communes." This call was led by Georges Cristiani, president of the Union of Mayors of the Bouches-du-Rhône, who argued that the government needs a "shock treatment" to address the crisis.

New revenue sources under consideration

The council is already exploring new revenue sources for the next budget, with transportation being a key area. A new RTM tariff grid was adopted, eliminating free measures in the Aubagne area and introducing a "social pricing" model that could generate around 20 million euros annually in additional revenue.

Mobility payment increase under discussion

The Metropolis is considering increasing the mobility payment, a contribution from companies with more than 11 employees. Currently capped at 2%, increasing it by 1% could generate 220 million euros annually. A special motion has been passed to support this change, with provisions to tailor the rate based on regional differences and service levels.

Government audit of Metropolis underway

As part of the ongoing budget crisis, the government has launched an independent audit of the Aix-Marseille-Provence Metropolis. The audit, led by former minister Dominique Bussereau and Jean-François Debat, will examine the Metropolis’s finances, governance, and territorial structure. The findings are expected to be submitted to the government by the end of the year.