Returning to the Vessel ♪

In the heart of Pforzheim, the Emma-Jaeger-Bad and Huchenfeld swimming pools continue to crumble, a testament to the city's ongoing struggle with its bathing facilities. This situation stems from a decision made by the city council in 2018, when the construction work for these pools was shifted to the Pforzheim Traffic and Baths Authority.

However, the circumstances surrounding this decision remain unclear. The search results do not provide information about the individuals or groups responsible for this decision, nor is it certain whether the project was actually carried out in 2018. What is known is that the shift was done with some number juggling, which was deemed beyond legal grounds. Consequently, the city council's decision was met with rejection, a result that was not unexpected.

The rejection was deemed good, despite public pressure from citizen initiatives and demonstrations. The city administration, however, remains sober regarding the current bath situation and does not promise unrealistic outcomes. Instead, they emphasise the need for investment projects of this size to be considered holistically, including follow-up costs for the next few years.

The mayor's office has recommendations that could prevent major financial or political damage. Unfortunately, these recommendations have not been communicated clearly and broadly to the public in the past. In light of the current political situation, clear communication of well-founded recommendations from the mayor's office is essential.

It is also important to note that sharp actions aimed at boosting one's own profile do not lead Pforzheim into the future. Such actions do not comply with rules for responsible budgeting, and the risk of a small authority being overwhelmed by the financial burden and the city's budget ultimately bearing part of the investment costs is significant.

Populist voices in the council claim that every euro taken in can be spent multiple times, but this is not possible. Any honest businessman would likely end his career with similar financial stunts in his books. The city administration, therefore, urges council members to focus on finding solutions in consensus with other factions, rather than on their own profile for the next local election.

In conclusion, the situation at Pforzheim's bathing facilities serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible decision-making and clear communication in local politics. The city administration and the mayor's office continue to work towards finding sustainable solutions for the city's bathing facilities, with the hope of providing Pforzheim's residents with the quality facilities they deserve.