Huge trouble in Neustadt: Verdi criticizes plans for swimming pools!
On July 16, 2025, the possible tender process for the pools in Neustadt near Coburg will be controversially discussed. Verdi expresses concerns.

Huge trouble in Neustadt: Verdi criticizes plans for swimming pools!
The Bäder der Stadt Neustadt GmbH is currently the focus of a heated debate. At its last meeting, chaired by Mayor Rebhan, the supervisory board decided to put the operation of the outdoor and indoor swimming pools in Neustadt near Coburg out to tender. This decision could have far-reaching consequences for employees and bathers. Loud NP Coburg The Verdi union expresses major concerns because the step was taken without the involvement of the works council.
The threat of price increases and staff cuts is looming, causing confusion and concern among employees. “We see a development here that could become problematic for many employees and bathers,” explains a Verdi spokesman. The union calls for a transparent discussion and the inclusion of employees in the decision-making processes.
Public pools under pressure
In this context, Christine Behle, deputy chairwoman of the United Services Union (ver.di), also pointed out other grievances in German swimming pools. Public pools have been suffering from financial cuts for years, which not only puts a strain on employees, but also affects the quality of services for bathers. Verdi is therefore calling for a comprehensive investment offensive for swimming pools and more training places for skilled workers.
The challenges are diverse. There is an acute shortage of staff to supervise the outdoor pools. While in cities like Hanover many training positions for specialist employees for pool companies remain unfilled, operators nationwide complain about high levels of sickness and clearly noticeable fluctuation. The situation means that security services are required in many bathrooms to ensure security, which incurs additional costs.
Investments and the future of mobility
The issue of financial bottlenecks in public institutions is not only discussed in Neustadt near Coburg. Cities also face similar problems in the area of public transport. A fire letter from works and staff councils from over 140 public transport companies appeals to politicians to take measures against savings and price increases. This requirement is also met by Verdi NRW supported, which point to an urgent restructuring of financing.
Public transport is under additional pressure due to the corona pandemic. An estimated 7 billion euros in lost fares and equally high lost trade taxes are putting municipalities under great pressure. Verdi is calling for an annual investment of 10 billion euros in public transport infrastructure in order to double the number of passengers by 2030 compared to 2019.
In the political discussion, it will remain a concern to secure the public infrastructure of both swimming pools and local transport in a sustainable manner and to make it fit for the future. The upcoming decisions in Neustadt near Coburg could set the course for other cities that are confronted with similar problems.