A cross-party committee has initiated a referendum to challenge the 15.7 million Swiss franc planning credit for the comprehensive renovation of the Kunstmuseum Bern. The group, comprising politicians from the SVP, EDU, and GLP parties, argues the 147 million franc total project cost is excessive and fiscally irresponsible.
Key Takeaways
- A referendum has been launched against the cantonal credit for the Kunstmuseum Bern's renovation.
- Opponents label the 147 million CHF project a "luxury" and question the cost-benefit for taxpayers.
- The Canton of Bern is slated to contribute 81 million CHF, or 55% of the total cost.
- Museum officials warn that a successful referendum would jeopardize 37 million CHF in private funding and delay urgent repairs.
Political Opposition Cites High Costs
A political committee has formally launched a referendum against the cantonal funds allocated for the Kunstmuseum Bern's major overhaul. In a statement released Wednesday, the committee, named "No to the Million-Franc Luxury Project Eiger," criticized the project's scale and financial structure. The group specifically targets the 15.7 million CHF planning credit approved by the cantonal parliament.
"The planned project exceeds any reasonable measure," the committee stated, highlighting concerns that the canton is shouldering nearly the entire burden of the initial planning costs. They argue that this sets a dangerous precedent for the project's overall budget management.
Concerns Over Cantonal Funding and City's Role
The referendum's proponents are particularly critical of the canton's total financial commitment. The Canton of Bern is expected to provide 81 million CHF of the project's 147 million CHF total cost. The committee warns of a potential "bottomless pit," expressing skepticism that the budget can be maintained.
"There is no planning security whatsoever that the total costs can actually be met," the committee's statement continued. The role of the City of Bern has also drawn criticism. Opponents point out that while the canton is the primary funder, the city is not contributing to the construction costs. Instead, it is providing a building that itself requires a separate 19 million CHF renovation.
Project "Eiger" Details
The winning proposal, named "Eiger," involves a multi-faceted approach to modernizing the museum complex. The plan includes:
- A complete renovation of the historic Stettler building.
- The demolition of the Atelier-5 building and construction of a modern replacement.
- The renovation of an adjacent building at Hodlerstrasse 6.
Call for Strategic Realignment
Beyond the immediate financial concerns, the committee is advocating for a more integrated cultural strategy for Bern. They have called for "integrative planning of the Kunstmuseum and the Zentrum Paul Klee (ZPK) to leverage synergies and avoid duplication."
The group noted that the ZPK will also require significant investments amounting to "tens of millions" in the coming years. They believe a joint approach could lead to more efficient use of public funds. The committee framed the issue as a matter of priorities.
"In times of rising spending on education and social services, it is untenable to direct tax revenues into prestige buildings," the committee argued. "In art, impact is created not by concrete and millions, but by spirit, openness, and a willingness to experiment."
Museum Defends Project as Urgent and Necessary
Jonathan Gimmel, President of the Dachstiftung Kunstmuseum Bern – Zentrum Paul Klee, strongly refuted the opposition's claims. In a response to the Keystone-SDA news agency, Gimmel stated that the renovation is far from a "luxury project."
"The condition of the museum is very poor," Gimmel explained. "The renovation is urgent and undisputed, and the renewal is moderate." He reassured the public that the museum is committed to fiscal responsibility, emphasizing that the canton's 81 million CHF contribution is subject to a strict cost ceiling.
Funding Breakdown
The total project cost of 147 million CHF is planned to be covered by multiple sources:
- Canton of Bern: 81 million CHF (55%, with a cost cap)
- Private Sources: 66 million CHF (45%) from private donors, foundations, businesses, and the lottery fund.
Warning of Financial and Reputational Risks
Gimmel warned of severe consequences should the referendum succeed. He confirmed that 37 million CHF in already-pledged private donations would be lost, as these funds are tied to the current project plan. This would force the canton to bear the full cost of any future renovation efforts alone.
"A new project would have to be developed," Gimmel said, implying significant delays and potentially higher costs. He stressed that the current plan is the culmination of a multi-year process involving extensive consultation with political, economic, and social stakeholders, and enjoys broad support across party lines.
Gimmel is convinced that inaction poses a greater threat. "Without renewal, the Kunstmuseum would gradually lose its significance," he concluded, describing the collection as a vital cultural treasure for the identity of the Canton of Bern.
Parliamentary Approval and Next Steps
The cantonal parliament had previously signaled its support for the project. During its autumn session in September, the parliament approved the 15.7 million CHF planning credit with a decisive vote of 91 in favor to 44 against, with 16 abstentions.
The launch of the referendum now moves the decision from the parliament to the voters. The committee will need to gather the required number of valid signatures to force a public vote on the funding, which will ultimately determine the future of the Kunstmuseum's ambitious renovation plans.