Chemnitz as a city of successful change

After being sworn in, Barbara Ludwig described her priorities for 2020: Chemnitz will be a place of successful change like hardly any other city, because what characterises Chemnitz as an industrial city at its core is its ability to change. "A city of innovation through business and science requires the most important raw material we have: Education. This means that we must not let up on investing in the education of our children," said Lord Mayor Barbara Ludwig. The municipality will continue to invest in this. However, this also requires the commitment of the Free State, for example in the areas of childcare ratios and childcare flat rates.

"Industrial cities like Chemnitz are the places where the future is conceived. That's why Germany is doing comparatively well despite global crises and competition," says Barbara Ludwig. "Excellent teaching, research, development and further education are the key to success," said the Lord Mayor, emphasising the key role that the university plays in successful development. Start-ups and established companies benefit from the Technical University, the Fraunhofer Institutes and other research facilities. "For our medium-sized companies, many of which now operate internationally, research and development are a prerequisite for continued success. Many start-ups in Chemnitz are the result of innovative product ideas," emphasised Lord Mayor Barbara Ludwig. This is why, in terms of economic development, it will not only be a question of commercial space in future, but also of recognising entrepreneurial ideas and trends and driving their implementation forward.

The city expects significant impetus from the university square with the central library and the Brühl as well as the increasing numbers of students coming to Chemnitz - often from other regions or countries. This is expressly desired and is good for the city.

"Part of successful demographic change is that we utilise all opportunities and potential to inspire young people for our city and give them a perspective here," said Barbara Ludwig.

Chemnitz has a lot to offer: good education, successful companies, well-paid work and a high quality of life and living. "What we sometimes lack is being an open, vibrant city. And we have to want that! Young people should be able to try out and establish their own culture. Regardless of whether they are from Chemnitz or perhaps want to become one. We must succeed in attracting the younger generations here or keeping them here, because this is one of the key issues for the future and successful change. Without qualified young people, there are no prospects for companies. Without the ideas of young people, there can be no sustainable development."

However, even those who operate successfully in a changing world are not free from the influences of international and national events, decisions, laws or the effects of financial crises.

"It is simply impossible to invest sufficiently and finance adequately with our own tax revenues - which are constantly growing thanks to the strong economy - and the declining key allocations from the state. Almost all cost increases in culture, sport and social services in Saxony are also borne by the municipalities alone," explained the mayor. "I think I can say in favour of the majority of the city council. We want a strong offering of top culture and the independent scene, good sports facilities, successful athletes, appropriate support for clubs, we want a social city. However, this will become increasingly difficult if there is no change in thinking - and I am of course also thinking of our federal state of Saxony."

When it comes to the regulation of financial resources, municipalities are reaching the limits of their self-determination. "Our common goal should be to advocate for the strengthening of local authorities across all parties in Saxony and in the Bundestag. I also address this appeal to the basic understanding of our joint work here in the city council. We are elected by the citizens and our first duty is to them. That is our oath," emphasised Lord Mayor Barbara Ludwig.

"Good solutions must also be fought for in the face of conflicting arguments. Yes, that is part of a lively democratic culture. However, our work is recognised and appreciated above all by the quality of the result. Let us base our decisions on whether they promote successful change."