Bjelovar’s 2024 budget is set at 89 million euros, a significant increase of almost 50 percent from the previous year. Mayor Dario Hrebak attributes the increase to 20 capital projects financed through European funds. The projects include the restoration of six earthquake-damaged buildings, energy renovation of eight buildings, construction of three new kindergartens, beginning construction of a new elementary school, equipment of the business zone in Veliki Korenovo, and continued investment in geothermal wells.
Hrebak emphasized that this is the largest budget in Bjelovar’s history and is both realistic and achievable. Notably, the budget also includes the lowest income tax in Croatia 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 Bjelovar earned 25% more in the same month compared to the previous year.
Furthermore, Hrebak assured that there will be no increase in communal fees prices and kindergarten costs will remain among the lowest in Croatia. The budget conference received support from HSLS coalition partners Zdenka Henc (ABB Association), Borislav Kozić (HSS), and independent councilor Dražen Medved. However, HDZ’s Nenad Martinovski was unable to attend due to official duties.
In summary, Bjelovar’s 2024 budget is set at €89 million euros and includes capital projects financed through European funds such as restoring six earthquake-damaged buildings and constructing a new elementary school. The budget is expected to lead to an increase in families’ average salaries while keeping communal fees prices low and kindergarten costs among
