Hagen Update February 2026: Equality, Environment and Education in Focus

Equality and Social Affairs: Women's Advisory Council Sets Priorities

In February 2026, the Women's Advisory Council of the City of Hagen set important impulses for equality and social security. At the inaugural meeting on February 3, Tanja Grahl and Kirsten Pinkvoss were unanimously elected as Chair and Deputy Chair, respectively. Daniela Rohleder was confirmed as Secretary, while Claudia Benthaus-Reiß and Bibiane Stein-Majewski assumed the role of deputies.

A central topic was the funding of the Contraceptive Fund (VMF), which the Women's Advisory Council unanimously wants to maintain at its original level. The committee also clearly advocated for the continuation of the Specialized Office against Sexualized Violence – WildWasser Hagen e.V. Another key focus was the integration of the Committee on Social Affairs, Integration and Demography into the consultations on the Coordination Office for the Istanbul Convention.

Environment and Nature Conservation: Tree Felling, Firework Bans and Climate Protection

The Nature Conservation Advisory Council convened on February 10 and addressed several environmental issues. A key focus was tree felling, particularly the N-9 Berg-Ulme in Graskamp, which was removed for safety reasons. The council also called for replacement planting in forest tree care measures where possible.

Another important topic was the development of a working paper on the firework ordinance, aiming to reduce environmental pollution from New Year's fireworks. On the initiative of Antje Selter, the council unanimously decided to prepare a municipal ordinance on this topic. In addition, a report on the repowering process of the Sürenhagen wind turbine was presented.

Education Policy in Hagen: Islamic Religious Education and First Aid Workshops

The School Committee addressed the introduction of Islamic Religious Education (IRU) in Hagen schools on February 19. Currently, IRU is offered at two schools, and more schools are to be included. The School Committee urged to actively advise schools that do not yet offer IRU.

In addition, it was unanimously decided to develop a concept for first aid workshops at Hagen schools. The aim is to offer age-appropriate and practical courses in cooperation with recognized aid organizations. Another decision concerned the establishment of a preparatory education track at the vocational college Kaufmannsschule II, starting in August 2026.

Accessibility and Infrastructure: Bus Stops and Sports Facilities

In the Committee for Urban Development and the Sports and Leisure Committee, topics related to accessible infrastructure and the renovation of sports facilities were discussed. The 9th construction phase for the barrier-free equipment of 9 bus stops will be submitted for funding in early 2026, with the expectation of receiving a funding decision in 2027.

In addition, the Elseyer Turnverein 1881 e.V. applied for a roof renovation of its gymnastics hall with support from the federal program. Furthermore, a conversion of the basketball hoops in the Öwen-Witt-Halle was decided to ensure youth-friendly playing conditions.

Finance and Emergency Services: Debt Relief and Rescue Stations

In the Hagen City Council on February 26, the transfer of approximately 543 million euros in debt to the state of North Rhine-Westphalia was approved. This step is part of the Old Debt Relief Act NRW (ASEG NRW) and represents a significant relief for the city.

Another important topic was the emergency medical service: A new rescue station will be built in Hohenlimburg, and four new ambulances (RTW) will be procured in 2025 and 2026. In addition, the implementation of the Telemedicine Doctor is being advanced.

Outlook: March 2026 – Topics in Focus

March 2026 is expected to be characterized by further decisions on the budget planning for 2026/2027 and the implementation of barrier-free infrastructure. Education policy and cooperation with neighboring municipalities on topics such as migration and integration will remain in focus.