haarlemsdagbladJul 2, 2026, 16:28

Will there be an asylum seekers' center in the horror apartment, and what will happen to the dog tax? Follow the live debate on Haarlem's finances here

The Haarlem city council is holding a debate on the framework memorandum, covering topics such as the dog tax, fireworks policies, and the potential establishment of an asylum seekers' center at Zijlweg 245. Reporter Tim Engelbart is providing live updates on the proceedings of the meeting.

Politics Economy Haarlem Netherlands

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Based on reporting by haarlemsdagblad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Haarlem takes financial risk with new Spaarne Gasthuis construction

Haarlem is assuming significant financial risk by providing a 100 million euro guarantee and committing to purchase the current hospital site for 25 million euros to keep the Spaarne Gasthuis in the city. The initiative ensures 24-hour emergency care remains in Haarlem, though the city has deferred requirements for building staff housing.

Haarlem city treasury grew last year: nearly 380 million euros in cash

The municipality of Haarlem saw its financial reserves grow to nearly 380 million euros by the end of 2025, reaching its highest level since 2016. This growth is driven by higher-than-expected revenues and the challenge of spending allocated budgets, reflecting a national trend among Dutch municipalities.

More than 76,000 rental homes have already disappeared from the market – landlords complain about affordable rent legislation

Since the introduction of the Affordable Rent Act in 2024, over 76,000 rental homes have been sold off by landlords across the Netherlands, tightening housing supply. Rental prices are simultaneously rising faster than inflation, with Amsterdam, Amstelveen, and Haarlem remaining among the most expensive areas for tenants.

Municipality of Haarlem must house 214 status holders before end of year

Haarlem must secure housing for 214 status holders by the end of 2024 to meet its government-assigned quota. So far, the municipality has housed 160 individuals this year, leaving a significant gap that must be addressed before the deadline.

Concerns over ending emergency care in Hoofddorp? Information evening draws few visitors

The Spaarne Gasthuis hospital plans to centralize 24-hour emergency care in Haarlem-Zuid by 2033, effectively closing the emergency department in Hoofddorp. Despite significant public and political backlash regarding travel times, a recent information evening in Hoofddorp drew very few attendees.