Haiger: Governance and Administration in Focus – How the City is Being Restructured

The Constitutive Session – Start of a New Legislative Period

On April 22, 2026, the first session of the new legislative period of the Municipal Council took place. This constitutive session was a central step in establishing the new political structure of the city of Haiger. The agenda included the election of the council chair, the determination of deputies, the election of the clerk, and the confirmation of the validity of the municipal elections.

The clerk was elected as Jörg Ernst, who is responsible for the proper documentation of meetings and decisions in this role. His deputies were also elected: Mario Dillmann, Sarah Ross, Lisa Metzler, and Daniela Wendel. This distribution underlines the city’s desire to ensure broad, cross-party representation.

Election Validity Confirmed – No Objections or Irregularities

Another focus of the session was the confirmation of the validity of the municipal election, the election of the Foreign Residents’ Advisory Committee, and the mayoral election. Following the municipal elections on March 15, 2026, the results were reviewed. No objections under § 25 of the Municipal Elections Act (KWG) or irregularities were identified by the special election officer. As a result, the validity of the elections was unanimously confirmed.

The Municipal Council now consists of 37 members, while the Foreign Residents’ Advisory Committee consists of seven members. Seat distribution was carried out using the Hare-Niemeyer method, which is considered fair and transparent in municipal politics. The legal assumption of office by the elected council members and advisory committee members took place on April 1, 2026.

Mayoral Election: Christian Helfert Takes the Lead

The mayoral election also took place on March 15, 2026. Christian Helfert (FWG) won with 52.45% of the valid votes against Stefan Thielmann (CDU). The election was confirmed by the election committee on March 19, 2026, and Helfert submitted his statement of acceptance on March 26. His assumption of office is scheduled for July 1, 2026.

The election process was not challenged by the special election officer, underscoring the transparency and seriousness of the procedures. Helfert will play a central role in implementing the new political direction, particularly in cooperation with the newly elected honorary deputy mayors.

Outlook: Structural Clarity for the Future

The April session not only marks the end of a transitional phase but also the beginning of a new era in Haiger’s governance. The clear confirmation of the elections, the election of key administrative positions, and the establishment of committees show a solid organizational foundation.

The new Municipal Council will be crucial in the coming months for implementing new projects and further developing the city. Particularly the cooperation with the new mayor, Christian Helfert, and the honorary deputy mayors will shape the political agenda in the coming years.

The decisions made in April 2026 lay the foundation for a transparent, citizen-oriented administration in Haiger. With a clear structure and a broad political base, the city is well-prepared to respond to the challenges of the future.