There was a palpable sense of optimism in the air, with some participants describing it as a long-overdue and therefore very welcome sign. Mayor Dr Enis Tiz had invited Kitzing entrepreneurs and representatives of major commercial enterprises to the town hall for an exchange of views. The aim is for this initial meeting to develop into a regular forum for discussion. “This is a top priority,” emphasised the mayor.
More than 20 business leaders accepted the invitation. From food retailers and exhibition stand builders to software developers, almost every sector was represented. These companies and their sites provide a workplace for thousands of employees.
“We want to take your ideas on board and move the city forward together,” said the mayor, setting out the objective. His vision is that the city council will lay a secure and strong foundation on which both residents and employers can build. Together, he believes, the city can then continue to develop and prosper. For him, this foundation consists of reliable and favourable conditions for all residents. “We will press ahead with flood defences, repair the roads and ensure a good learning environment in schools,” he announced. Over the coming months, there are plans to procure air-conditioning units for individual school classes. Through concrete measures such as these, the city council can play an active role in shaping the city whilst also taking steps to strengthen the sense of community within it. “Young people want to get involved in the city,” the mayor assured. He said he was encountering this very spirit in many of his conversations with young people. The task now, he said, was to capitalise on this momentum.
Some steps towards a better future have already been taken: the first corporate fun run in Kitzingen will take place on 23 September, and the municipal library is set to gain an events room where parents and their children will enjoy spending time. An in-depth discussion has already taken place with representatives from schools and nurseries, and the owners of smaller commercial premises are also being invited to a round-table meeting at the town hall. A ‘feel-good’ package is to be provided for start-ups. “We also want to help you directly and quickly wherever possible,” assured the mayor. As an example, he cited unbureaucratic communication regarding building projects or other requests for changes. “We are looking for pragmatic solutions,” emphasised Dr Enis Tiz. “And we invite you to play a part in the future of our town.”
Those present reacted favourably to the announcements. “I’ve been waiting a long time for a sign like this,” said Josef Ramthun, managing director of FrankenGuss. Even the mere possibility of networking was a benefit for local businesses. Ertan Özdil, former CEO of WeClapp, spoke of a palpable momentum that should be harnessed to drive the city forward and put forward concrete ideas for a future structure: the establishment of an association or advisory board to act as a direct point of contact for the city. It was clear from the contributions made by the panel that there were plenty of topics to discuss: charging points for electric cars, the rising demand for electricity among manufacturing businesses, connecting industrial estates to public transport, and better communication regarding business rates were just a few of the issues raised. “We’ll stay in touch,” promised Dr Enis Tiz.