High turnout – clear decision
The decision was made on Tuesday evening, March 25, at the Citizens’ Forum. Prior to that, Aachen residents had submitted a total of 38 proposed topics via the city’s participation portal and by phone, and voted on them. Over 1,000 Aachen residents voted: 24 of these proposals reached the required quorum of 125 supporters, and four additional proposals were submitted by the city administration. Further information can be found here. On the topic of mobility alone, 12 different questions were proposed.
On March 5, 2025, the advisory committee used a decision matrix to select the following five finalists for consultation at the Citizens’ Forum:
- More direct citizen participation in the individual development of each district and neighborhood. How could this be made possible?
- Balanced Mobility in Aachen: How can we ensure that transportation policy decisions take into account the needs of all road users? What specific measures are effective in fostering balanced coexistence?
- “Climate-Neutral Aachen 2030”: How can the city engage and involve its residents in the implementation of climate protection measures?
- What steps can Aachen take to become a cleaner—and therefore more livable—city?
- How can Aachen become more environmentally friendly?
At the citizens' forum, the topic proposers were able to present their topics themselves and promote their research questions.
After a two-hour discussion, it was clear: The topic “Balanced Mobility in Aachen: How can we ensure that transportation policy decisions take into account the needs of all road users? What specific measures are effective in fostering a balanced coexistence?” was approved by a clear majority of 14 out of 17 votes.
For Mayor Sibylle Keupen, an exceptionally timely and important topic was chosen: “Mobility should be a benefit for everyone—convenient, safe, and environmentally friendly!” Our goal is to enable the various modes of transportation to coexist on an equal footing. That’s why it’s important for the 2025 Citizens’ Council to focus on a topic that affects us all. I’m looking forward to the ideas and recommendations.”
Mathias Dopatka, chair of the Citizens’ Forum, praised the participatory process: “The Citizens’ Forum meeting was a complete success. The atmosphere was positive, and the engaged citizens had the opportunity to present their issues—in a very authentic and personal way. All of the issues have their place and will certainly be pursued further in other ways, but it quickly became clear that one issue received particularly strong support. I am convinced that the third Aachen Citizens’ Council will develop innovative ideas to examine the controversial issue of mobility in Aachen and bring all sides to the table. That is the strength of this format: building bridges and strengthening dialogue.”
In the next step, the 3,500 Aachen residents selected by lottery will be contacted and will receive a letter in the mail inviting them to participate in the Citizens’ Assembly. From among those who respond positively, the final panel of 56 members will then be selected by lottery in a second step.