The Citizens’ Secretariat will randomly select 56 members from among the responses received. The selection process will take into account age, education, and social backgrounds. The individuals selected will form the Citizens’ Council, which is representative of the composition of Aachen’s population, and will be invited to discuss the topic over several weekends in the fall of 2023.
Active, participatory, voluntary
: The Citizens’ Council is an important tool for actively involving citizens in political processes to foster a participatory urban society. As a permanent, institutionalized body, the council goes far beyond a mere discussion forum. Through discussions among people from very different backgrounds, a fascinating shift in perspectives takes place. Together, and with the support of experts, recommendations are developed and a citizens’ report is drafted, which is then submitted to policymakers for a decision. This provides policymakers and city officials with a direct recommendation from the citizenry. The members of the Citizens’ Council are reappointed each year. In addition to the opportunity to help shape their own city, contribute their own ideas and perspectives, and discuss them with others, participants also receive an expense allowance.
Anyone interested in learning more about the new Citizens’ Council can find additional information at www.aachen.de/buerger_innenrat. If you have any questions, please contact Milan Anton and Albert Halfmann from the Department of Citizen Dialogue and Administrative Management by phone at 0241 432-7223 or by email at buerger_innenrat@mail.aachen.de.