Graz abolishes discretionary funds for council groups

Graz will abolish discretionary funds for municipal council groups and significantly reduce those available to city government offices, ORF reported. The changes are expected to save the city more than 50,000 euros a year.

The decision follows a draft report by Graz’s municipal audit office that caused a stir last week. It found spending on items including scarves, coffee machines and doughnuts, whose purpose for the city and its residents was not always clear.

Although guidelines govern the use of the funds, there has been no corresponding oversight. The guidelines will now be revised to ensure the money is used appropriately.

Mayor Elke Kahr of the Communist Party of Austria and Deputy Mayor Judith Schwentner announced the measures on Tuesday.