Opposition parties in the Lelystad city council strongly criticized the proposed 2027 budget during the first part of the budget debate. VVD, Mooi Lelystad, PVV and Forum for Democracy said the municipal executive was postponing important choices, including on youth care, and urged the municipality to plan for a scenario in which it receives little or no additional state funding. The executive expects a €13.1 million youth-care deficit this year to be covered from reserves and anticipates €4.75 million in additional funding from the national government in the spring.

The council also debated the planned pop venue at the Agora Theatre, abolition or reduction of dog tax, and dozens of other proposals. The executive defended the pop venue and advised deciding on the future of dog tax next spring. In total, councillors submitted 51 amendments and 51 motions, covering issues including the Silver Park memorial, the city-centre manager, celebrations for Lelystad’s 60th anniversary and King’s Day, the planned coffeeshop, youth sports and culture funding, and support for children who cannot afford glasses. The meeting is to continue with votes on the amendments and motions.