Rotterdam’s new governing coalition is seeking answers after the city’s Oracle Fusion IT project saw its budget skyrocket from an initial €16 million to €44.5 million, coupled with significant delays in its launch. The project, initiated in 2022, aimed to upgrade the financial administration of the city council, including areas such as procurement, contracts, and subsidy management. The responsibility for overseeing this project lay with the outgoing alderman, Ronald Buijt.
A recent city review revealed that the original cost projections were overly optimistic and pointed out deficiencies in project management as well as in the collaboration with consulting firm Deloitte. The review raised concerns about the handling and implementation of the project, which was intended to modernize the city’s financial systems.
Further financial burdens loom as officials caution that additional software enhancements and maintenance could incur an extra €12 million this year and another €13 million the following year. These potential costs add to the existing financial strain and have prompted coalition leaders to demand comprehensive transparency and political accountability.
Leaders within the coalition argue that the city’s taxpayers deserve clear and detailed explanations for the escalating expenses associated with the IT project. They are calling for an emergency council debate to address these concerns, and it is anticipated that further examination will take place during upcoming committee sessions.