Vantaa City Council approves guarantee for Vantaa Light Rail vehicle procurementantaa City Council approves guarantee for Vantaa Light Rail vehicle procurement
At its meeting on 21 September, the Vantaa City Council approved two strategic programmes for 2026–2029: the Environmental Programme and the Integration Programme. The Council also decided on financing arrangements for the procurement of vehicles for the Vantaa Light Rail and approved three zoning plans. Prior to the meeting, the council groups agreed on an additional provision to the council agreement concerning taxation and the reform of the city organisation.
Guarantee of up to €110 million for the light rail vehicle investment
The Council granted Metropolitan Area Urban Transport Ltd. a self-liability guarantee of up to €110 million for loans financing the Vantaa Light Rail vehicle investment. The guarantee covers the loan principal, interest, default interest, and any loan servicing and collection costs.
Two strategic programmes: Environmental Programme and Integration Programme
The Council approved Vantaa’s Environmental Programme and Integration Programme for 2026–2029. The Environmental Programme brings together the city’s climate and biodiversity work, circular economy initiatives, sustainable consumption, and climate adaptation into one strategic framework. The Integration Programme focuses on strengthening language skills and competence, promoting good community relations and participation, and developing Vantaa as an international and forward-looking city. Progress on both programmes will be reported annually to the City Council.
Zoning plans for the Vantaa Light Rail advance in Vaarala and Länsimäki
The zoning plans for southern Vaarala and northern Länsimäki enable the construction of the light rail in these areas. The plans also include solutions related to groundwater protection, ecological connections, and arrangements for walking and cycling.
New homes and services in Annefred
The zoning amendment for Rälssitie 6 in Veromies enables the construction of two new blocks near the Annefred light rail stop. The area could provide housing for approximately 360 residents as well as commercial, office, and service premises.
Liesipuisto and Tuurapuisto to be renewed
The zoning amendment for Liesipuisto and Tuurapuisto in Myyrmäki will improve the park and urban environment while enhancing safety, accessibility, comfort, and green spaces.
Additional provision to the council agreement on taxation and the city organisation
The additional provision states that the city’s financial operating environment has changed significantly since the council agreement was concluded. As a result, the economic section of the agreement needs to be updated regarding taxation and the development of the city organisation.
The provisions “Taxation will remain at its current level” and “Personnel will not be dismissed or laid off as a cost-saving measure” will be replaced by the economic programme approved by the Council.
The provision further states: “We will reform the city organisation to respond to the changing operating environment.” “In this review, we will take into account functions subject to statutory staffing requirements and safeguard education and early childhood education services.” and “We will review municipal and property tax levels as part of the annual budget preparation and financial planning process, taking into account the effects of implemented balancing measures and overall economic development.”
The additional provision does not determine future tax levels or staffing levels.
The Council meeting is still ongoing. The agenda includes responses to council initiatives submitted by elected councillors.