How did your employees react to the change?
I was very well received as the new district administrator and received a lot of support. Particularly in the district administrator's office, I was already well known from my time as district director and found a well-coordinated team. I also already know many colleagues from my time as a legal officer, as head of economic development, or as district director - which makes the atmosphere in meetings significantly more pleasant.
What special challenges shaped your first 100 days?
Not only my first 100 days but also the coming weeks and months will be shaped by discussions about the need for renovation on the Wiehltal Bridge, rescue service fees, and the generally difficult economic situation of many companies in the Oberberg region. Each week brings smaller and larger challenges that need to be solved. We are developing strategies and options to find the best possible solution for all parties involved – and this has worked well in the first 100 days.
What goals do you want/need to work on particularly intensively now?
First, we want to complete our new disaster protection warehouse to be well-prepared for emergencies. Additionally, we are in intensive discussions with health insurance companies and other districts to prevent citizens from having to pay individual fee notices for so-called rescue service false alarms. Of course, it is also a top priority to prevent a closure of the A4, as this would have fatal consequences for businesses and commuters from Oberberg. Furthermore, we want to proceed as agreed with the construction of rescue stations and the centralization of the district administration, based on the compromise found; the building applications should be submitted promptly.
What support do you expect from the new district council, which is now led for the first time by a coalition of CDU and SPD?
During the coalition negotiations, we had very constructive discussions, and initial meetings with representatives of the CDU and SPD also went well and were goal-oriented, so I have no doubt about successful cooperation during the legislative period. Naturally, it cannot be avoided that there are differing opinions on certain topics in the district council and that discussions arise, but that's what democracy is for, and the elected representatives ultimately reflect the will of the citizens.
How do you assess the current economic situation in the region, and how can you, as a district administrator in constant contact with local businesses, provide support?
Especially in the current situation, a high degree of sensitivity is required from the administration. International crises and ongoing economic downturns no longer only affect large corporations in metropolitan areas but are also noticeable among our regional industrial companies. I frequently encounter people who fear for their jobs or are in short-time work and have significant concerns about their family's financial security – particularly when a house construction or other major commitments are planned. It is therefore crucial for me that we take this situation seriously, support businesses, and utilize the available leeway. Every single employee can contribute to ensuring that companies and citizens feel understood and supported and that solutions are sought together. I thus aim to sensitize the district administration employees – regardless of their department – to the economic situation, starting with training through the already successfully introduced industrial internship for our young professionals.
What do you experience in interactions with citizens (who also report their concerns and needs to you)?
There are encounters that continue to make me think for a long time afterward. Often, I experience that citizens are dissatisfied with political decisions at higher levels. As an industrial district, we are particularly affected by this – and people feel it.
What has changed for you in your private life since the election?
I must admit that in some weeks, there is little time left for the family. Although I always try to keep certain time slots free for birthdays or weekends, appointments or topics often come up, so the calendar is always well-filled. Many events, including committee meetings, take place in the evenings. When the calendar allows, I try to do something with my family as often as possible, especially on weekends.
