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Party spokesman Depner: "The deanery is not even taking on part of the responsibility."
Following the final closure of the youth center *huette in Darmstadt, the Green Party the dean . From the party's perspective, the long-established institution could have been preserved with greater commitment.
“Together – with a minimum level of commitment from the deanery – the hut could have been preserved,” said Heiko Depner , spokesperson for BÜNDNIS 90/DIE GRÜNEN Darmstadt .
The dean's office announced in the summer that it would close the facility on December 31, 2025. The reason given was necessary renovations amounting to approximately €200,000 , which could not be financed from its own resources.
“For us Greens, it was clear that this problem was solvable,” emphasizes Sandra Seeger , the Greens’ spokesperson for social policy. “The city cannot use taxpayer money to renovate church properties, but the *huette is a cherished institution for many people. We saw an opportunity to support them in raising funds.”
Criticism of the dean's office's lack of commitment
According to media reports, at least one foundation found that has agreed to secure the continued existence of the institution with €400,000 – on the condition of a ten-year financing plan. The city of Darmstadt has also pledged to pay rent in the future.
“The fact that a continuation should not be possible despite these contributions from third parties and the city casts doubt on the will of the deanery,” said Seeger.
Party spokesman Depner also criticizes the deanery's handling of the property:
"The buildings have been neglected for years, and they have failed to secure sustainable financing. In the summer, they said they needed 200,000 euros – now it's over a million. The deanery is playing a game of chicken and shirking its responsibility."
Support for new paths
At the same time, the Greens expressed understanding for the church's need to cut costs . The decline in membership has had economic consequences that have led to painful decisions. Nevertheless, they regretted that even a purchase offer from the city of Darmstadt at a symbolic price was rejected by the deanery.
“With the closure, Darmstadt loses a place that was far more than just a building for generations of young people – it was a home, a safe space, a community,” said Depner.
Together with Mayor Barbara Akdeniz, the Green Party now wants to actively support the search for new premises and sponsors .
"The motivation to explore new avenues is strong. The *huette concept lives on – and it will continue to have a place in this city," Depner concluded.
(RED/PM/GREENS)
