Høyre proposes property tax increase in Trondheim, Norway, despite previous promises

The Right Party (Høyre) aims to change the governance in Trondheim, Norway’s third-largest city. Earlier this year, a new city council was introduced, which has since assumed power. On Wednesday, Finance Commissioner Kjetil Reinskou presented the budget for the coming year, which includes an increase in property tax, contrary to the prior promise to maintain it at current levels. The increase will correspond to the rise in the consumer price index, meaning residents of Trondheim will face higher property taxes next year.

Commissioner Reinskou believes the adjustments align with their commitments. He stated, “We are freezing it at the current level in line with the consumer price index,” despite acknowledging that they had no intention to raise property taxes.

Current Mayor Kent Ranum, who previously stated during the election that property taxes would not increase, now reiterates that while there will be a price adjustment, it does not represent a real increase. He describes this as an inevitable reflection of the broader economic situation, emphasizing that the goal remains to eventually cut property taxes.

The coalition led by Høyre does not hold a majority in the city council, necessitating alliances with other parties, such as the Progress Party (Frp), which has been cooperating with the ruling parties since the 2023 election. Frp’s Deputy Leader, Maria Alseth, criticized the property tax increase during tough financial times, viewing it as a breach of prior assurances from Høyre.

Labour Party member Emil Raaen expressed dissatisfaction, arguing that Høyre is reversing its positions, contrary to earlier commitments to reduce property tax expenses. Raaen also noted a lack of tangible evidence in the budget for promised educational funding.