Illegal garbage in the Triebischtal: Citizens raise the alarm!
Survey results on cleanliness and citizen participation were presented in the Triebischtal district of Meißen.

Illegal garbage in the Triebischtal: Citizens raise the alarm!
In January 2023, the Triebischtal regulars' table conducted a survey in a district on the left bank of the Elbe to record residents' concerns, wishes and suggestions for improvement. Around 2,500 questionnaires were distributed by volunteers, but only around 150 responses were returned. Mayor Markus Renner discussed the survey results with regulars' table representatives Wolfgang Dehmelt and Holger Metzig. The results were then presented on June 12th during the 23rd “Triebischtal regulars’ table” and correspond to the content of the citizen discussions that have already taken place.
The biggest issue raised by survey participants was the lack of cleanliness on paths and streets, which accounted for 30.2% of responses. According to citizens, there is a need for action, especially because of illegally dumped bulky waste, dog feces and stolen shopping carts. In addition, 21% complained about threats and disturbances of the peace, while 13% complained about unclear rules for living together. The behavior of addicts was perceived as problematic by 14.6% of those surveyed, and 12.3% expressed a desire for more cultural offerings.
Suggestions for improvement for a clean future
A total of 89 suggestions for improvement were made. These include the establishment of rules for the community park, the creation of more youth activities in the KAFF children's and youth center and greater involvement of the population in keeping the district clean. Wolfgang Dehmelt emphasized that the survey results will serve to derive concrete measures for the city administration. Another consultation meeting with the regulars' table representatives, Mayor Renner and the city administration is planned for August 22nd.
Demands for more citizen participation are not new and are not only evident in the Triebischtal. Discussions about large-scale urban development and infrastructure projects are increasing, which is often accompanied by criticism of the planning processes. Many citizens would like to be more actively involved in decisions that affect their daily lives. According to a research by DIFU The legitimacy of municipal projects is increasingly under pressure, which requires a rethink in the cooperation between local politics, administration and civil society.
The next steps have already been determined: all proposals and measures are to be presented to the public in September. The residents have great hope that the quality of life in the Triebischtal can be significantly improved through increased citizen participation and concrete measures.