Rotterdam’s new governing coalition is seeking answers after the budget for the city’s Oracle Fusion IT project skyrocketed from €16 million to €44.5 million. Additionally, the system’s deployment is facing substantial delays. Initiated in 2022, the project aims to upgrade the financial administration of the city council, covering areas such as procurement, contracts, and subsidy management. Outgoing alderman Ronald Buijt was in charge of overseeing the project.
A city review has revealed that the original budget was overly optimistic, highlighting issues in project management and collaboration with consulting firm Deloitte. The report also indicates that further expenditures could be on the horizon. Officials have warned that additional software improvements and maintenance might incur costs of €12 million this year and €13 million next year.
Amid these revelations, coalition leaders are demanding full transparency and political accountability. They emphasize that taxpayers deserve a clear understanding of why the project’s expenses have escalated so dramatically. In response to the situation, an emergency council debate is anticipated, with more detailed investigations expected to follow in upcoming committee sessions.