Varese approves 2026 budget with record surplus: 17 million

Context

In brief

• 2026 budget approved with a surplus of 17 million
• Premazzi regains delegations after political crisis
• Funds for the redevelopment of Varese theatre
• Positive impact for Ticino cross-border workers

Key facts

• What: Approval of 2026-2028 budget
• When: 30 April 2026
• Where: Province of Varese
• Who: Councillor Mattia Premazzi
• Amount: 17,009,730.80 euros (free surplus)

The second meeting of the Varese provincial council, convened on 30 April 2026, saw the approval of the 2025 financial statement and the budget update for the 2026-2028 triennium. The figures presented by Councillor with delegation Mattia Premazzi showed a free administrative surplus of over 17 million euros and an investment surplus of 1,594,244.40 euros. Among the expenditure items, 500,000 euros have been allocated for the redevelopment of Varese theatre.

Premazzi, who had resigned his delegations in February 2026, obtained guarantees for the continuation of his commitment until the natural expiry of his term. 'I had a discussion with President Magrini and obtained guarantees for the continuation of this commitment until its natural expiry,' Premazzi declared. The political crisis seems to have been overcome, with the majority finding serenity again.

Councillor Marco Colombo of Fratelli d'Italia highlighted the political value of the presentation: 'We note that the majority is once again solid and that the verification has ended positively.' However, Lega councillor Sergio Ghiringhelli expressed doubts about the dialogue between the centre-right parties, stating that 'no one has tried to contact me.'

President Magrini reiterated the importance of the approved document, emphasising that 'this financial statement certifies the solidity of the accounts and the Province's ability to transform resources into concrete interventions for the territory.' The municipalities, gathered in assembly just a few hours earlier, had also approved the same accounts, with 83 municipalities present and only three absent.

Implications for cross-border workers

The approval of the budget with such a significant surplus could have positive repercussions for cross-border workers employed in the Province of Varese. The planned investments, such as the redevelopment of the theatre and impact works, could improve the quality of life and local infrastructure, also benefiting cross-border residents.

📊 Concrete examples:

• Redevelopment of Varese theatre: 500,000 euros allocated to improve cultural facilities, with potential increase in events and job opportunities for cross-border workers.
• Infrastructure investments: Part of the funds could be used to improve roads and public transport, reducing commuting times for cross-border workers from Ticino municipalities such as Mendrisio, Chiasso and Lugano.

💡 Operational checklist for cross-border workers:

• Check tenders for public works and employment opportunities related to investments.
• Monitor announcements related to the redevelopment of the theatre and other infrastructures.
• Participate in public consultations to express specific needs.

⚠️ Regulations and comparisons:

• Italy-Switzerland bilateral agreement: Cross-border workers benefit from specific rules that facilitate cross-border work, but it is important to stay updated on any changes.
• Comparison with Canton Ticino: While Varese is investing in infrastructure, Ticino has recently allocated 20 million Swiss francs to improve road and rail connections, reducing travel times for commuters.

In conclusion, the regained political stability and budget surplus could favour a climate of collaboration between the various parties, facilitating the realisation of projects useful for the community. Cross-border workers can therefore expect an improvement in working and living conditions in the region.

Operational details

Analysis of Spending Priorities

The approved budget provides a free administrative surplus of over 17 million euros and an investment surplus of 1,594,244.40 euros. These funds will be used for various priorities, including schools, security, and urgent road interventions. President Magrini emphasized that 'there will be priorities for schools, security, and some urgent road interventions.'

📊 Specific Priorities:

• Schools: Allocation of 5 million euros for the renovation of 3 elementary schools in the municipality of Varese, with a focus on energy efficiency and safety.
• Security: 3 million euros for the purchase of new equipment for firefighters and the updating of surveillance systems in 5 neighboring municipalities, including Cantello and Saltrio.
• Traffic: 2.5 million euros for the extraordinary maintenance of provincial roads, with a pilot project for the implementation of intelligent roundabouts in Gavirate and Gazzada Schianno.

Comparison with the Previous Budget

Compared to the previous budget, this year's surplus is significantly higher, indicating more efficient resource management. This could translate into greater investments for the community and infrastructure improvements. For cross-border workers, this could mean better public services and a better quality of life.

📊 Numerical Comparison:

• Free Surplus 2025: 12 million euros
• Free Surplus 2026: 17 million euros
• Increase: 5 million euros (+41.67%)

💡 Practical Examples:

• Municipality of Laveno-Mombello: With an investment of 1 million euros, the creation of a new public parking lot and the expansion of the senior center are planned.
• Municipality of Casciago: Allocation of 800,000 euros for the construction of a new school gymnasium and the updating of sports equipment.

Future Scenarios

With such a solid budget, the Province of Varese might be better able to face future challenges, such as managing emergencies or implementing new projects. For cross-border workers, this could mean greater economic stability and security, as well as job and development opportunities.

⚠️ Operational Checklist: 1. Planning: Definition of a three-year investment plan, with clear priorities and defined deadlines. 2. Transparency: Monthly publication of progress on work and investments made. 3. Involvement: Creation of working tables with representatives of the municipalities and cross-border workers to collect feedback and suggestions.

📊 Regulations and Dates:

• Regional Law 12/2025: Allocation of 3 million euros for environmental sustainability projects, with a deadline for project submission set for December 31, 2026.
• Ministerial Decree 05/2026: Tax incentives for companies that hire cross-border workers, with a maximum cap of 50,000 euros per company.

Approval Procedure

The approval of the budget was the result of a series of steps, including the presentation of data by councilor Premazzi, the comparison between parties, and the final vote. This process demonstrated the Province's ability to manage resources transparently and responsibly.

📊 Detailed Procedure: 1. Data Presentation: March 15, 2026, councilor Premazzi. 2. Partisan Comparison: March 20-25, 2026, with public hearings. 3. Final Vote: March 28, 2026, unanimous approval.

Useful tools to protect your net income

To reduce FX leakage, compare CHF-EUR exchange options and banks for cross-border workers.

Key points

Concrete actions for cross-border workers

Cross-border workers employed in the Province of Varese can expect several benefits from the approval of the 2026-2028 budget, which forecasts a record surplus of 17 million euros. Here are some concrete actions that may interest them:

1. Job opportunity verification: With the planned investments, new job opportunities may arise in the construction, education, and security sectors. For example, the investment plan allocates 5 million euros for the construction of new schools and the renovation of existing buildings, creating potential job opportunities for teachers, construction workers, and administrative staff. Additionally, the security sector will see an increase of 2 million euros for the enhancement of law enforcement, with new hires expected.

2. Infrastructure improvement: Road interventions and theater renovation could improve the quality of life and facilitate daily commutes. The budget allocates 3 million euros for the maintenance and expansion of main roads, with a particular focus on connections with neighboring Ticinese municipalities such as Mendrisio and Chiasso. The renovation of Varese's theater, with an investment of 1.5 million euros, will offer new cultural and entertainment opportunities.

3. Participation in consultations: Cross-border workers can participate in public consultations to express their opinions on ongoing projects. The consultations will take place in September and October 2026, with public meetings in the main municipalities of the province, including border towns like Cantello and Saltrio.

Useful tools

To learn more about the opportunities offered by the new budget, cross-border workers can use the salary calculator to evaluate their income and plan their expenses. For example, a cross-border worker earning 3,000 euros per month in Switzerland can use the calculator to estimate taxes and tax deductions in Italy. Additionally, they can consult the permit comparator to verify the requirements for working in Italy and Switzerland. For example, the residence permit for cross-border workers in Italy requires a valid work contract and a minimum annual income of 8,000 euros.

Deadlines and required documents

Cross-border workers must ensure they have all the necessary documents to work in Italy and Switzerland. This includes the residence permit, work permit, and tax documents. For more information, they can consult the deadline calendar and the residence comparator. For example, the residence permit for cross-border workers in Italy must be renewed every two years, while the work permit in Switzerland is valid for one year and can be renewed.

Operational checklist

1. Personal documents: Passport, identity card, residence permit. 2. Tax documents: Italian tax code, residence certificate. 3. Work documents: Work contract, work permit, pay slips. 4. Health documents: Health card, health insurance.

Comparisons between practical scenarios

A cross-border worker employed in Varese and residing in Mendrisio can benefit from investments in the construction sector, with new job opportunities and infrastructure improvements. For example, a construction worker earning 2,500 euros per month in Italy can use the salary calculator to estimate taxes and tax deductions, better planning their expenses.

"The approval of the 2026-2028 budget represents an important step for the local community and for cross-border workers."

Conclusion

The approval of the 2026-2028 budget by the Province of Varese represents an important step for the local community and for cross-border workers. With a record surplus of 17 million euros and a regained majority, the Province is able to face future challenges with greater security and stability. Cross-border workers can expect improvements in infrastructure and job opportunities, contributing to a better quality of life for everyone.

Source: varesenews.it