New mayor in Großbeeren: Wonneberger provides a breath of fresh air!

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Martin Wonneberger surprisingly became mayor of Großbeeren. In addition, sad developments regarding dog taxes and historical projects in Teltow-Fläming.

Martin Wonneberger wurde überraschend Bürgermeister von Großbeeren. Zudem triste Entwicklungen zur Hundesteuer und historische Projekte in Teltow-Fläming.
Martin Wonneberger surprisingly became mayor of Großbeeren. In addition, sad developments regarding dog taxes and historical projects in Teltow-Fläming.

New mayor in Großbeeren: Wonneberger provides a breath of fresh air!

On July 8, 2025, the city of Großbeeren was able to celebrate a new political beginning: Martin Wonneberger from the CDU was surprisingly elected as the new mayor in the first round of voting. This decision brings a breath of fresh air to local politics and shows a clear desire from citizens for change. His election was congratulated by District Administrator Kornelia Wehlan (Left), which was interpreted as an encouraging sign of improved cooperation between the district and the municipality. On the political stage, Wonneberger relies on proximity to the citizens: “An honest dialogue at eye level” is his top priority, as he emphasizes on his website.

But there is not only positive news in the region. The B96 between Rangsdorf and Berlin is currently closed to one lane due to construction sites, which is causing additional traffic. The city of Jüterbog is also concerned with the planned sale of the empty web house, which has been unused since the end of 2022. There is broad support among local residents for the revival of the historic building, but this is made more difficult by monument protection and necessary renovation work. Offers for concept awarding can be submitted until the end of September 2025.

More and more often discussed: the dog tax

Another topic that is stirring people's minds is the increase in the dog tax in the municipality of Rangsdorf to 55 euros per dog. Rangsdorf has thus introduced the highest tax rate in the Teltow-Fläming district. Owners of several dogs even have to pay up to 75 euros per animal. This measure is intended to help make keeping dangerous breeds less attractive. In comparison, the dog tax in Zossen remains the cheapest in the district at 20 euros per animal.

Dialogue and citizen participation

Wonneberger sees proximity to citizens as a central pillar of his political work. He wants to hear what concerns citizens and take action based on that. His planned initiatives such as the “Community Round Table” and regular citizen forums aim to actively involve everyone interested in the political process. This approach also corresponds to the findings on citizen participation: According to a study by the German Association of Cities and Municipalities, it is crucial to include the wishes of citizens in urban development. This creates a transparent and attractive culture of participation that not only strengthens politics, but also the population.

While the city of Ludwigsfelde is preparing for the largest event in the city's history, the Sound City Music Festival, it is becoming clear that lively cooperation and commitment at all levels are necessary in order to master the challenges of the future together. It remains to be seen how the political changes will affect Großbeeren and whether citizens have the feeling that their opinions and needs are actually reflected in the decisions of their community.