"Franz Haug, Alt-OB, fortifies the support behind Daniel Flemm, the CDU candidate"
In the upcoming municipal elections on September 14, 2023, Daniel Flemm, the CDU's candidate, is making waves in Solingen. Flemm, inspired by former Mayor Franz Haug, aims to build upon Haug's legacy and steer the city towards a new era.
Franz Haug, a successful lawyer who was 55 when he was elected as Solingen's mayor in 1999, initiated significant urban development during his tenure. The largest urban development project in decades for Solingen was carried out during his time, funded by the 'Regionale 2006' initiative. The Korkenziehertrasse, Bruckenpark, new train stations, and Neumarkt in the city center are just a few of the results of this project.
Moreover, Haug was instrumental in the development of the Piepersberg industrial area. Today, Daniel Flemm, who joined the CDU at the age of 16, inspired by Haug, aims to expand upon this by developing new areas at 'Fürkeltrath II', 'Piepersberg-West', and 'Schrodtberg'.
However, not all of Haug's initiatives were successful. Since 2021, the city has been unsuccessfully trying to sell the Old Station building in Solingen's Südpark. The gastronomy in the Old Station had to close due to lack of funding for a new kitchen. Despite this setback, the Südpark, a new neighborhood built during Haug's tenure, is now renowned for its art.
Haug also rejected the 'Cross-Border Leasing' model during his tenure, which involved municipalities selling their sewage canals to foreign investors and leasing them back. A few years later, this model collapsed, and many cities paid dearly. Haug's foresight in this matter is now widely recognised.
In his election program, Flemm includes a realignment of the economic development department. He also focuses on reorganising the administration and bringing the city society together. His aim is to create a new quarter as a center for art and culture in the southern city center, encompassing the Südpark, the Old Station, and the planned Omega Quarter.
Franz Haug, who served as mayor from 1999 to 2009, believes that Flemm has the character and professional skills to become a good mayor. He supports Flemm as his successor. With around 40 percent of the staff in the core administration set to retire in the next five to six years, Flemm's leadership could not come at a better time.
As the elections approach, the city of Solingen looks towards the future with a mix of anticipation and hope. The legacy of Franz Haug and the vision of Daniel Flemm promise to shape the city's trajectory in the coming years.
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