Government Council BS Basel government applies for additional funding for the Kunstmuseum

The Kunstmuseum Basel is exceeding its financial limits in the current year. The Basel government therefore feels compelled to apply to the Grand Council for a supplementary credit of 2.55 million francs, as it announced on Tuesday.

Rising costs for international loans and insurance, falling third-party funding and less income from ticket sales mean that the state museum will exceed its current global budget of 20.73 million francs, according to the forecast. The Presidential Department has therefore taken measures to stabilize the museum's financial situation.

The lack of third-party funding through sponsorship, contributions from private individuals and foundations is having a particularly negative impact. The museum mainly uses these to finance its special and temporary exhibitions, accompanying events and scientific projects. Due to the long lead times for exhibitions, it is not possible for the museum to implement cost-saving measures in the short term.

Impending deficit only recognized in August

For a long time, the museum reckoned with a balanced budget. This was still the case until April 2024, it says. In August, the new director Elena Filipovic, who only took over in April, was forced to report an expected cost overrun of CHF 2.55 million to the Presidential Department, according to a press release. In contrast to 2023, when a deficit could be absorbed by reserves, this is no longer possible.

In the medium and longer term, the museum has adjusted the budget for the coming year in close consultation with the presidential department in view of realistic third-party income and cost developments, according to the press release. The financial planning and controlling processes will be improved with external support. In addition, the museum will probably increase its admission prices, which have not been adjusted since 2016.

The art museum was already facing a looming structural deficit in 2018. At that time, the global budget was increased by two million francs.

SDA