Long-serving local politicians honored at parliamentary evening
The city of Darmstadt, a center of science and research, has officially appointed Iris Behr, Dr. Wolfgang Gehrke, and Jürgen Barth as honorary citizens. The ceremony took place during a parliamentary evening at the Kalkofen Forestry House in Arheilgen.
Mayor Hanno Benz and City Council Chairman Yücel Akdeniz personally presented the certificates. The City Council had already approved the appointments on May 7th.
Recognition of many years of work in local politics
The title "City Elder" is awarded to recognize outstanding service in local politics.
Dr. Wolfgang Gehrke served for many years as a city councilor, honorary city councillor, and chairman of the city council. He also served as mayor and head of the building department of the city of Darmstadt between 1996 and 1997.
Jürgen Barth also served as a city councilor and honorary city councillor for decades.
Iris Behr was initially a long-serving city councillor and subsequently an honorary city councilor.
Mayor Benz expresses his gratitude for decades of dedication
“The appointment of Iris Behr, Dr. Wolfgang Gehrke and Jürgen Barth as city elders is an expression of our great respect and gratitude for many years of dedicated local political work,” explains Mayor Benz.
People who have dedicated themselves to the common good for such a long time will have a lasting impact on the city and deserve the highest recognition.
Democracy thrives on voluntary work
City council chairman Akdeniz also acknowledged the merits of the honorees and highlighted their respectful conduct and their commitment to the city society.
At the same time, he thanked all the honorary members of the city council, city representatives and local advisory board members who had taken on public mandates in the past election period.
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/dk)
Featured image: From left: City Council Chairman Yücel Akdeniz, Dr. Wolfgang Gehrke, Iris Behr, Jürgen Barth, Mayor Hanno Benz. Photo: City of Darmstadt
