“When you were elected mayor of your hometown in 2018, you didn’t set out to put on a big show. Your campaign slogan was ‘one of us.’ And that’s exactly what you’ve remained all these years,” writes District Administrator Allgaier.
The citizens had already expressed their confidence in Frauhammer in the first round of voting, with more than 58 percent of the vote. The district administrator points out that Frauhammer, who holds a doctorate in process engineering and is a development engineer, did not have a traditional background in public administration.
Responsibility in Challenging Times
The years of the COVID-19 pandemic were particularly defining for Frauhammer’s term in office. No sooner had he taken office than the municipal administration was confronted with unprecedented challenges. “You met this challenge with calm, objectivity, and a sense of responsibility,” says District Administrator Allgaier, praising the mayor’s dedication during this extraordinary situation.
Important Projects for the Community’s Future
During Frauhammer’s tenure, numerous projects were initiated and implemented. These include, among others, the daycare center at Holzplatz, the development of the residential and mixed-use area on the site of the former paper mill, the launch of the Gemmrigheim Club Fair, and new programs for senior citizens. Issues such as climate protection, municipal heating planning, the conversion of street lighting to LED technology, and the planning of a network of biotopes were also advanced.
“Family-friendliness, child care, and the community’s sustainability were not just buzzwords for you, but concrete mandates for action,” emphasizes the head of the district administration.
Commitment to Community and Volunteer Work
Promoting social cohesion was always a particular priority for Frauhammer. Club life, volunteer work, and cultural activities were just as close to his heart as citizen participation in municipal decision-making. As a clarinetist, emcee, and active member of community organizations, he demonstrated that local civic engagement extends far beyond administration and politics.
Local Politics Requires Respect
In his letter, the district administrator also uses his farewell as an opportunity to make a fundamental appeal. Democracy thrives on differing opinions and controversial debates. However, fairness, respect, and decency in our dealings with one another are just as important. Especially at the local level, the willingness to take responsibility for the common good cannot be taken for granted.
Gratitude for More Than 30 Years of Service
Before his election as mayor, Jörg Frauhammer had already served on the municipal council for 28 years, 13 of them as deputy mayor. “Anyone who takes on responsibility for so long does so not for headlines or career plans, but out of conviction,” writes District Administrator Allgaier.
In his farewell message, he expressly thanks the outgoing mayor for his dedication: “You have served your home community. That deserves thanks and recognition.” For the future, Dietmar Allgaier wishes him, above all, good health, time for family and music, and the opportunity to look back on the past years with pride.
