Lahr remains steadfast: the local council rejects the initial reception facility

Lahr remains steadfast: the local council rejects the initial reception facility

On July 7, 2025, an important information discussion took place in Lahr about the possible establishment of an initial reception center for refugees. Representatives of the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Justice and Migration presented information to the city administration and the parliamentary group leaders of the Lahr municipal council. Despite the plans discussed, the city of Lahr remains firmly opposed to such an institution RegionalTrends reported.

During the discussion, the option of a state-owned property north of the Police College on Vosgesstrasse was also discussed. This site could potentially accommodate up to 1,000 refugees. However, the examination of this possibility has not yet been completed. In addition, the possible effects on the annual allocation of asylum seekers to the Ortenau district were discussed.

Reservations and concerns of the local council

The Lahr city leadership, led by Mayor Markus Ibert and Mayor Guido Schöneboom, points out that in their opinion the willingness to integrate in the city has already been exhausted. The current situation would put excessive strain on existing resources. All factions in the Lahr local council agree in their rejection of the state government's plans. Local actors are concerned that the creation of an initial reception center could endanger social peace in Lahr.

The city therefore appeals to the state of Baden-Württemberg to take the special circumstances of the region into account and to refrain from implementing the plans. Given this background, it is not surprising that residents and many local organizations oppose the construction of such a facility.

Volunteering and support for refugees

Since 2015, there has been a dedicated network of volunteers in Lahr that offers refugees support when they arrive in the city. According to information from lahr.de Numerous aid and intercultural associations are involved, including the “Friends of Refugees Lahr” initiative. These groups support the newcomers with German lessons, leisure activities and individual assistance.

If you would also like to volunteer, you can contact the integration officers of the city of Lahr or the Ortenaukreis district office. Charlotte Morton, the city's integration officer, and Ursula Moster from the Migration Office are the first points of contact.

To protect both the helpers and the refugees, it is necessary to present an extended certificate of good conduct. This can be applied for easily and free of charge at the city's citizens' office.

The situation surrounding the planned initial reception center remains exciting and tense. The next steps from the state government and their impact on the city of Lahr are eagerly awaited.