The draft municipal budget of Chisinau 2021 provides for revenues of 4.66 billion lei, including 2.64 billion lei in transfers from the state budget, and for an expenditure of 5.95 billion lei. The budget deficit is projected at about 1.3 billion lei, IPN reports.

According to mayor general Ion Ceban, the deficit derives from three large projects that the municipality aims to implement, namely: the purchase of buses, two commitments related to solid waste management with the EBRD/EIB and the development of an area in Chisinau and of an industrial street.

“Regrettably, we continue to have this rupture in the public finances that continues to disadvantage Chisinau as the capital city. We practically do not have sources for development,” the mayor stated in an event held to discuss the draft municipal budget.

Under the draft, over 60% of the revenues or 906 million lei will go to the General Public Transport and Communications Division, 364 million lei to the Public Amenities Division, 76 million lei to the Education Division, 69 million lei to the Architecture Division, 20 million lei to the Social Assistance and Health Division, 30 million lei to the Capital Construction Division, 4 million lei to the Zoological Garden.

Ion Ceban voiced hope that the municipal councilors will show responsibility and will approve the budget.