Mayors assuming secondary roles: A shift in local governance dynamics

In the small municipality of Efringen-Kirchen, located in the district of Lörrach, Mayor Gudrun Mallwitz is navigating challenging times. The municipality, with around 8,900 inhabitants, has been grappling with a staff shortage that has left several key positions vacant.

The head of administration position has been empty since the start of the year, and the IT administrator role has been vacant since the first quarter. This shortage has led to Mayor Carolin Holzmueller taking on additional responsibilities, including handling overtime, delays in appointments, and less personal time.

To address the staff shortage, internal changes have been made. A staff workshop was held to collect ideas for adapting structures and improving the working environment. Mayor Holzmueller has also taken steps to improve the attractiveness of Efringen-Kirchen as a place to work. She has promoted a business-friendly atmosphere, advocated for reducing bureaucratic hurdles, supported local economic development, and championed transparency efforts.

These measures are aimed at making the municipality more appealing for professionals and companies alike. However, creative solutions often face legal or financial limitations due to the TVöD collective agreement and the lengthy procedures for recruiting personnel.

The municipality's financial situation leaves little room for improvements in the work environment. Despite this, employees in Efringen-Kirchen, as well as in many other town halls across Germany, are finding ways to make the most of their working conditions.

In an effort to improve communication and engagement, a new website has been implemented, and a social media presence has been established in Efringen-Kirchen. A new position for Social Media and IT has also been filled since mid-July.

Mayor Holzmueller is actively advertising for personnel in job advertisements and newsletters. She emphasizes the need for structural reforms, including more flexible remuneration models, faster recruitment procedures, and a change in societal perception towards administration.

The staff shortage is not unique to Efringen-Kirchen. Many other municipalities are feeling the effects, with remuneration often cited as the reason for resignation. In some cases, mayors have taken on additional duties to keep services running, such as lifeguard duty in Rottenburg and public waste bin emptying in Erfurt-Vieselbach.

As the staff shortage continues to challenge municipalities across Germany, it is clear that a change in societal approach towards public administration is needed. Criticism aimed at "the municipality" affects employees who identify with their employer, and a shift in perception could help alleviate some of the pressure.

In the face of these challenges, mayors like Carolin Holzmueller are working tirelessly to adapt and find solutions that will ensure the continued smooth operation of their municipalities.