The Hainaut region faces a budget shortfall of 30 million euros for 2026, necessitating either cost-cutting measures or increased taxes. Eric Massin, reflecting on his 27 years in politics, plans to step down in 2030. The new executive team is notably young, with Aurore Goossens being the youngest ever elected. Budget challenges stem from integrating funds for rescue zones. Additionally, the food city project requires an additional 4-6 million euros, and there are concerns about improving student housing conditions.