Local Students Engage in Political Talk with Mayor Marco Steffens
In a unique opportunity for engagement, students from three eighth grade classes at Grimmelshausen-Gymnasium invited the Mayor of Offenburg, Marco Steffens, for a “Political Talk” session in the multipurpose room of the auditorium. Mayor Steffens dedicated a double period to openly and honestly answer the students’ questions. The discussion took place within the context of their current social studies curriculum on “Local Politics,” led by their teachers Heike Dietz and Silke Herbert.
The students had prepared various topics related to local politics for the conversation with Mayor Marco Steffens. Each keyword prompted a dozen questions from two to three students. The moderators of the talk show went the extra mile, dressing up in suits and ties for this esteemed visit.
An Open and Honest Exchange
The students fearlessly asked personal questions, such as “Were you nervous before your first election?” and “What were the consequences of the election for you personally?” Mayor Steffens answered all questions openly and honestly, noting that like any politician, he too felt nervous since it ultimately concerned his own person. He explained that as the mayor, he is on call 24/7, with no script on how to lead a city. Often, decisions need to be made to the best of his knowledge and conscience, and he encouraged the students not to hesitate in making decisions, emphasizing that progress can only be made with courage.
Responsibilities and Commitments
The students learned that the city administration, with around 1,700 employees, is one of the largest employers in the city, serving over 63,000 citizens. They also discovered that being an Oberbürgermeister (mayor) does not involve repetitive, mundane tasks. Instead, each day is structured and varies significantly, with numerous roles and commitments both within and beyond the city limits. Mayor Steffens asserted that a key ingredient for success in his job is a genuine liking for people.
Insight into Local Governance
One of the main themes that piqued the students’ curiosity was the functioning of politics. Mayor Steffens explained that German local politics is based on compromise and consensus, aiming to find solutions that are acceptable to the majority. While the city sets the agenda for topics, there are guidelines dictating when specific issues are placed on the city council’s agenda. As the elected chairman of the city council for an eight-year term, Mayor Steffens has his own voice but the final decisions are made by majority vote within the entire council. Every five years, citizens directly elect the members of the city council.
The students eagerly inquired about current city issues, leaving no topic unexplored. They discussed the significance of a strong economy for a socially thriving city, the importance of tax revenues in financing various projects, and how Offenburg residents can influence political decision-making processes through diverse forms of civic participation.
