Dear people of Wolmirstedt,

As with the employees of the city administration, I would like to say goodbye to you with a few lines, as my term of office ends on December 6, 2025.

I deliberately refrain from giving a personal assessment because I think that almost everyone has their own opinion on this, and I respect that. Nevertheless, I would like to point out that the office of mayor first and foremost involves running an administration. The scope is comparable to managing a company and the tasks are very diverse. In addition, there are many laws and regulations that leave little or no room for maneuver.

I would like to assure you that during my term of office, I have devoted a great deal of my energy to fulfilling the tasks at hand, leaving little time for family and friends, sport and culture.

I’m sure I haven’t done right by everyone, but as we all know, that’s an art that NOBODY can do. Nowadays in particular, there are many different interests and lobbyists exert a lot of influence on the implementation of certain goals. One of my tasks has been to balance and moderate these different interests in the interests of the common good. The same applies to the political forces in our city. Unfortunately, I have not always succeeded in finding viable solutions together. And I have certainly made mistakes along the way.

During my time in office, I was always proud that I was able to represent Wolmirstedt, the city we live in, and therefore also you.

I have always enjoyed talking to you on various occasions.

There were critical comments, but also a lot of friendliness and often a funny remark.

But it is also true that EVERYTHING HAS ITS TIME!

After the end of my term of office until I reach my standard retirement age on March 1, 2026, I will still be working as an employee in the municipal administration. In doing so, I am following the advice of friends and (former) colleagues, among others, to slowly transition into retirement.

When the time comes, I will have been employed by the city council for 35 years and 8 months. I can say that I have had a fulfilling working life and am grateful that I was able to work in local politics and help shape it.

In the end, I would like to thank everyone who has accepted me as mayor, especially those who have worked with me to find good solutions fairly and on an equal footing. And in particular, I would like to thank all those who have supported me in word and deed and trusted me; and who have also comforted me from time to time.

Please take good care of yourselves and your families, try to keep an interested eye on developments in our city and, if possible, join in and get involved.

For the Advent season, Christmas and the start of 2026, I wish you health, serenity, optimism, humor and a portion of happiness.

Wolmirstedt, 30.11.2025