Salzgitter in February 2026: Focus on Nature, Safety, and Education

A Month with Clear Priorities – February 2026 in Salzgitter

What was important this month

• Nature Conservation: Walter Wimmer was reappointed as the representative.
• Safety: The concept "Salzgitter – safe and clean 2.0" was launched.
• Child-Friendliness: Expansion of playgrounds and discussions on the second Children's Council.
• Education: Focus on full-day schools and new equipment.
• Funding: A dedicated budget for primary schools was approved.
• Environmental Planning: Public participation for several zoning plans.

Nature Conservation and Landscape Management: A Long-Term Approach

February 2026 brought clear decisions in the field of nature conservation. Walter Wimmer was unanimously reappointed for another five years as the representative for nature conservation and landscape management. His role is central to implementing the legal requirements of the NNatSchG (Niedersächsisches Naturschutzgesetz), particularly in securing animal and plant species and preserving the landscape.

In addition, several zoning plans were publicly announced, including Sal 26, GrM 6, Git 11, and Bad 123. Public participation in accordance with § 3 Abs. 2 BauGB strengthens transparency in urban planning decisions. This involvement allows citizens to actively influence planning, leading to higher acceptance rates and more sustainable urban development.

Safety and Order: The Fight against Rats Becomes Strategic

Rat control was a central topic in February. The city has presented a clear plan: increasing the cleaning frequency, installing CCTV surveillance, and training staff from housing companies as certified pest control professionals. In addition, rat control will be integrated into the overarching concept "Salzgitter – safe and clean 2.0".

These measures show that the city is not only reacting but also thinking long-term. With 32 warnings issued to tenants and specific administrative actions, responsibility is also being placed on the residential population. The final report from September 2025 already confirmed the eradication of active rat colonies – a success that is now to be deepened and consolidated.

Education and Culture: Playgrounds, School Grounds, and Children's Councils

In the education sector, several initiatives were launched that strengthen the city's future. The renovation of the schoolyard at Klunkau Secondary School will provide students and teachers with a more modern learning environment. In addition, it was decided to equip pedestrian crossings with the symbol of the "Bergbaumännchen" – a cultural element that strengthens Salzgitter's identity.

Another milestone is the planning of a second children's council, supported by the association "Politik zum Anfassen". In the future, children should be even more involved in local decision-making processes. In parallel, a dedicated budget of 2.50 € per student for consumables at primary schools was approved – a small but symbolic step toward greater educational equity.

Finance and Budget: Transparent Budget Planning

In financial matters, Salzgitter remained cautious: The city does not provide its own funds for the care of feral cats, so the animal welfare association Salzgitter finances spaying and care measures from its own resources. Nevertheless, the discussion about the city's role in animal welfare remains lively, especially after inquiries from the AfD council faction.

In addition, a dedicated budget for consumables at primary schools was financed through pillar 1. Transparency in financial management remains a central issue, with the final report on rat control and the funding of cultural projects regularly being made publicly accessible.

Integration and Social Affairs: Support for All

In the area of integration and social affairs, Salzgitter is relying on partnerships. The BISS advisory office presented new offers for the integration of women, and the job center introduced its services. In addition, discussions on support offers for citizens took place in several committees – a sign that the city is not only an administrative body but also wants to be there for its citizens.

Outlook: March is the Month of Archives

March 2026 will be a month of transparency and remembrance in Salzgitter. With the Day of the Archives on March 7 and 8, the city archive will open its doors to the public. In addition, the urban design competition for Marienbruch in Lebenstedt will continue – a project that will shape the future of the district.

Conclusion: A Month with Clear Impulses

February 2026 was characterized in Salzgitter by decisions that are both long-term and concrete. Whether in nature, safety, or education – the city has set impulses that will have positive effects in the coming months. The inclusion of citizens, transparency in administration, and clear prioritization of topics show that Salzgitter is on the right track.