New round of mayors in the Mettmann district: hope despite the mood of crisis!

New round of mayors in the Mettmann district: hope despite the mood of crisis!

The pulse is rising in the region: this week the first meetings of the new city councils will take place in the cities of the Mettmann district. Mayors are sworn in and swear to carry out their offices responsibly. They say: "I swear that I will administer the office given to me to the best of my ability, obey and defend the constitution and laws, faithfully discharge my duties, and administer justice to everyone. So help me God." The new term of office is all about change, as seven out of ten cities now have a new mayor. Particularly noteworthy is Bettina Warnecke, who is making history as the first female district administrator in the Mettmann district Radio Neanderthal reported.

But the joy of a breath of fresh air in politics is clouded by less encouraging economic news. According to the autumn economic report from the IHK Düsseldorf, the economic situation in the Mettmann district is weaker than the regional average. In particular, the current business situation is assessed as poor by around 200 companies surveyed, and the prospects are predominantly pessimistic. At 83.7 points, the business climate index is well below the regional value of almost 90 points.

Economic challenges in the region

There are many reasons for the weak economic situation: high energy prices, rising labor costs, bureaucracy, a shortage of skilled workers and declining incoming orders are affecting companies. A third of the companies surveyed plan to take savings measures on investments in 2024. How RP Online reports, industry and the construction sector are concerned about a continued decline in demand. Retailers in particular are having a hard time and are suffering from a massive decline in sales.

What is particularly worrying is that many companies are of the opinion that economic policy is a burden and a risk for the economy. While trust in economic policy has recently fallen sharply, companies are hoping for an improved situation, which could be accompanied by more stable conditions and the early adoption of the federal budget.

Current developments and measures

However, there is also positive news at the local level. Monheim and Langenfeld rely on strong cooperation and are planning new contracts for their joint waterworks. The dismantling of the waterworks was rejected. There is also news in the area of ​​sports: Langenfeld is switching the floodlights in the Jahnstadion back on, every Monday and Wednesday from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. until the end of February. However, Nordic walking sticks are not permitted on the track.

The economic situation in Germany reflects the challenges in the Mettmann district. The German economy will be in a tense situation in 2025 Statista warns. After two years of recession, GDP is weak and prospects for significant growth are not expected until 2026. The Federal Republic is struggling with a variety of challenges, including high inflation, stagnating demand and the need to transition to a carbon-neutral economy.

It remains to be seen whether the new politicians can stimulate the economy in the Mettmann district with fresh ideas and impulses. One thing is certain: it depends on the cooperation and commitment of those responsible to bring about positive change.