Lahti citizens’ panel highlights predictability and social impact in financial planning

The citizens’ statement emphasizes a long-term perspective, predictability, and consideration of social impacts. Effective and sustainable financial management that supports residents’ well-being and opportunities for participation is seen as a core value.

Reasonable fees and investments in basic services

According to the panel, the city’s revenue should be increased moderately and fairly. The impacts of decisions on different population groups and the city’s attractiveness must be carefully assessed.

Residents consider it important that fees central to well-being and strategic goals remain reasonable. Key measures for cost control include streamlining operations, efficient use of facilities, eliminating overlaps, and systematic management of procurement and contracts.

Investments should focus on basic services, such as schools, daycare centres, and community centres. These should be examined from the perspectives of life-cycle thinking, well-being, and regional attractiveness. According to the panel, savings do not necessarily mean cutbacks but also improving and streamlining operations.

Participation and everyday life matter

The panel also underlines the importance of residents’ everyday experience. Key factors supporting people’s decision to stay in Lahti include access to local services, employment opportunities, and smooth education and career paths.

A lack of participation and uncertainty about the future, on the other hand, may increase the likelihood of moving away. Residents hope that Lahti will be developed together in a way that strengthens its appeal for families, professionals and businesses alike.

A diverse group of Lahti residents participated

The first resident panel included 60 Lahti residents of various ages living in different parts of the city. Some panelists were invited through random sampling, and others were members of regional partnership roundtables. The group included students, working people, the unemployed, and retirees.

The panel met in April 2026 at the Fellmannia Partnership House to discuss the following themes related to the city’s finances:

• increasing the city’s revenue
• controlling service costs
• investments that enhance Lahti’s attractiveness
• factors influencing housing decisions

The statement was drafted based on collaborative work and discussions. Not all participants fully agree on every point. Divergent views have also been noted.

The statement supports decision-making

The citizens’ panel’s statement has been presented to city management and the City Board, and it will be submitted to the City Council for information as part of the budget preparation process.

The statement has been published on the OmaLahti website. Panelists will be informed about how their views will be taken into account in the city’s decision-making.