Tobias Stockhoff, President of the Association of Cities and Municipalities and Mayor of Dorsten (CDU), has sharply criticized social providers, accusing them of having a “gold-digger mentality.”
Speaking to the “Rheinische Post” regarding youth welfare, Stockhoff stated that more adequate funding and stronger cost control are urgently needed. He noted that some providers have been demanding 60 percent more for the same services within just five years. He argued that such price increases are neither justified by collective bargaining agreements nor by inflation. Stockhoff believes that what is occurring at some organizations is a speculative drive, which is also exacerbated by the simple fact that there are too few available spots, allowing providers to unilaterally determine prices.
Stockhoff described the financial situation of local governments (municipalities) as “disastrous,” likening them to a sinking ship with a large, growing hole in the hull. This hole represents the increased, cost-driving tasks being transferred to local authorities by the federal government, particularly within the social sector. Currently, the federal and state governments are debating how to provide municipalities with relief-namely through legacy debt relief and a regional plan for good infrastructure-to help them manage the situation. However, the growing hole also needs to be permanently patched.
Regarding the state’s legacy debt relief, Stockhoff called it “undoubtedly important,” noting that it could keep his city afloat for another one and a half, potentially two and a half years. Nevertheless, he added that even if the federal government finally contributes to the relief fund, it will only provide temporary relief. He concluded that the federal component being offered is far too modest.
