The city of Bjelovar has set its budget for 2024 at 89 million euros, a significant increase of nearly 50 percent from the previous year. Mayor Dario Hrebak attributes this increase to 20 capital projects, most of which are financed through European funds. These projects include the complete restoration of six earthquake-damaged buildings, energy renovation of eight buildings, construction of three new kindergartens, beginning construction of a new elementary school, equipping the business zone in Veliki Korenovo, and continued investment in geothermal wells.

Hrebak emphasized that this will be the largest budget in the city’s history and is both realistic and achievable. Notably, the budget also includes the lowest income tax in the country at 18%, or 28%, making Bjelovar the largest Croatian city with the lowest income tax rate.

The mayor expects that families in Bjelovar will have an additional average salary on an annual basis. He also pointed out that despite reducing and eventually abolishing the surtax, the city’s coffers remain well filled. Additionally, Hrebak stated that the city earned 25% more in the same month compared to the previous year.

Furthermore, Hrebak assured that there will be no increase in prices for communal fees and kindergarten costs will remain among the lowest in Croatia. The budget conference received support from coalition partners ABB Association’s Zdenka Henc, HSS’s Borislav Kozić, independent councilor Dražen Medved. However, HDZ’s Nenad Martinovski was unable to attend due to official duties.

In summary, Bjelovar’s budget for 2024 is set at €89 million euros and includes capital projects financed through European funds such as restoring earthquake-damaged buildings and investing in geothermal wells. The budget is expected to provide families with an additional average salary on an annual basis while maintaining low taxes on communal fees and kindergarten costs.