Baden-Baden in the clinic conflict: referendum comes to a head!

Baden-Baden in the clinic conflict: referendum comes to a head!

Things are simmering in Baden-Baden. The upcoming referendum on June 29, 2025 on the location of the new central hospital is causing heated discussions. What exactly is available? The citizens must decide whether the local council's resolutions of November 25, 2024 should be repealed, so that the city of Baden-Baden only agrees on the condition that the clinic is built there. The discussion polarizes as the pro and con sides form.

Among the loud voices in this debate is Alexander Arpaschi, AfD member of the Bundestag and city councilor, who sharply criticizes the plans for the central hospital in Rastatt. In a guest article on goodnews4.de, which has been publishing guest comments from well-known personalities such as Franz Alt and Prof. Thomas Bippes for years, Arpaschi warns that the city of Baden-Baden could have to bear the financial consequences of the project and accuses the decision-makers of operating with a kind of “horse trading”. For him it is clear: Baden-Baden could bear 29.5% of the losses, even though the correct rate is only 19.6%. Anyone who wants to protect cities from such “horse trading” needs a clear voice in the referendum.

Violent disputes among citizens

The tension in the city is growing, and more than just a need for information is becoming clear. Numerous events will take place before and during the decision, such as the BNN Forum on May 27, 2025 at Rantastic in Haueneberstein, where citizens have the opportunity to discuss directly with political representatives. While the “yes-sayers” and “no-sayers” argue against each other, the supporters of the Rastatt location criticize the behavior of the heads of administration - above all Mayor Dietmar Späth and District Administrator Christian Dusch.

The “yes-sayers” say that the current decision is based on incorrect reports and doubt the suitability of the Rastatt location, while the “no-sayers” – represented by the CDU, Greens, SPD and Free Voters parties – believe in the need for a clinic in the region. This is all about what citizens want for the future of their city and whether they are ready to accept the change of location or not.

Information for voters

On election day, June 29th, polling stations will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. All German citizens and EU citizens aged 16 and over who have lived in Baden-Baden for at least three months are eligible to vote. A proper election notification is required, which will be sent to all eligible voters registered on the electoral roll by June 8, 2025 at the latest. If you want to be on the safe side, you should inquire in good time and, if necessary, contact the city administration.

The electorate expects a clear voting question and the opportunity to answer “YES” or “NO”. Postal voting documents are also available and can be requested from the end of May. Given the importance of this referendum, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the modalities. If you are sick on election day, you can even request a postal vote until 3 p.m.

When it comes to investing in health, the voice of every citizen plays a central role. Given the complex arguments, this referendum could offer the city a new way to overcome future challenges. It remains to be seen whether voters will be able to show the old parties the red card or agree to the clinic in Baden-Baden. Until then, the discussion remains exciting and will continue to keep the city busy.

Further information on voting is available here baden-baden.de to find.