Mayoral election in Rheinsberg: Hope for change and new ideas!

Mayoral election in Rheinsberg: Hope for change and new ideas!

On Sunday, September 28, 2025, voters in Rheinsberg flocked to the polling stations to cast their vote for the new city leadership. A particularly lively crowd was recorded in the core city, which indicates the great interest in the upcoming changes. In conversations with citizens, it became clear that many see the election as an important opportunity for the future of their city.

Anita Förster (86) was one of the first voters and made it clear in a conversation how important it is to use your right to vote: “If you don't vote, you get someone you don't want.” This statement makes it clear that the election is not just about people, but also about the future of the youth in Rheinsberg, which is Förster's heartfelt concern.

Criticism of the current mayor

A recurring theme in the discussions was criticism of the incumbent mayor Frank Schwochow, whose leadership style is described as divisive. Richard Herten, chairman of the Rheinsberg local branch of ALLIANCE 90/THE GREENS, is calling for a rethink after eight years and is in favor of a new beginning. The Greens are not running with their own candidate, but they are sending the message: A change in the town hall is urgently needed to address the city's challenges, such as: B. Climate friendliness and participation of young people in urban development, according to in-neuruppin.de.

Citizens expressed a variety of wishes at the polling stations. Hartmut (91) and Heike Richter spoke out in favor of a mayor who is more committed to culture and education. Norbert Zupke (73) would like to see improved cooperation between the mayor and the city parliament, while Dirk Klose (53) hopes for social and professional competence to ensure the quality of life in Rheinsberg.

Wishes and requirements for the new city leadership

Marianne (73) and Jörg Jensch (80) not only see the behavior of foreigners as critical, but are also calling for the sidewalks to be renewed. The demands and expectations are high: Diana Schulz (45) emphasizes the need for more transparency and participation, while Elke Röhnke (55) and Doris Wendler (66) are active as election workers and call for continuity in urban development. Wendler has also expressed dissatisfaction with the dispute with the city council, although Röhnke also praises the progress in Rheinsberg.

An important political issue in the election is ensuring emergency medical care and creating spaces for art and culture in all districts. The focus is also on cooperation with the district on urban development, which was urgently addressed by Petra Hanf from Zechow. She criticized the mayor for having accumulated 6,000 hours of overtime and for bringing with him a lack of new ideas.

Importance of local elections

The upcoming civil and mayoral elections in Germany, as described in bpb.de, include the election of political representatives and the direct election of mayors. The Basic Law initiates local elections and requires fair and secret voting. This year, the citizens of Rheinsberg have a valuable opportunity to influence urban development with their vote.

As is often the case in local elections, voter turnout is characterized by local issues and a certain skepticism towards larger political parties. This is also felt by the citizens of Rheinsberg, who are demanding fresh impulses and a more active civil society. The coming days will show how the new city leadership positions itself with regard to the diverse concerns and whether the desired change will actually succeed.