Article authored by Reiner Breuer, the Mayor of Neuss city
In the heart of Germany, the city of Neuss stands resolute in its solidarity with Israel and its partner city, Herzliya. As the new year approaches, Neuss prepares to tackle key developments and challenges, focusing on sustainable growth, education, climate protection, and affordable housing.
One of the most anticipated events in 2024 is the Neuss State Garden Show. This major event, expected to boost local tourism and stimulate economic activity, will showcase horticultural exhibits and urban green developments. The show will contribute to the city’s attractiveness and ecological aims, making it a significant step towards Neuss's sustainability goals.
Education is another priority for Neuss. The city plans substantial investments in schools and daycare centres, addressing the growing population needs and early childhood education priorities. These investments aim to create a brighter future for Neuss's children and families.
Climate protection measures are at the forefront of Neuss's sustainability goals. The city is actively working on energy efficiency improvements, promoting renewable energy sources, and encouraging circular economy practices in local industry and public facilities. These efforts align with regional and national targets to reduce emissions.
Providing sufficient affordable housing remains a challenge. Neuss aims to develop new housing projects to tackle the growing demand while ensuring they meet sustainability standards. Balancing urban growth with environmental concerns is a key planning focus.
Neuss continues its city partnership with Herzliya, Israel, fostering cultural exchange, municipal cooperation, and economic collaboration. This long-standing international relationship is a personal and political highlight for Neuss.
The new citizen's park, a catalyst for the sustainable further development of the city, will feature over 2,000 new trees and spaces for sports, leisure, and interaction. Citizens are encouraged to submit their suggestions and engage in the community association "Green Heart Neuss" for the development of the new park.
Neuss's trade tax revenues in 2023 significantly exceeded expectations, allowing the city to maintain a high quality of life and invest in its future. With over 82,000 employees in socially insured employment relationships, Neuss is a thriving city.
However, the global political situation, including cruel wars, will continue to accompany Neuss in 2024. Neussers have shown that solidarity in their city is a high and lived value, as over 1,600 refugees from Ukraine found security and a second home with the Neussers in 2023.
As the first sod for the Neuss State Garden Show will be laid at the beginning of 2024, the mayor of Neuss looks forward to a year of further development and future-proofing the city. The mayor wishes a happy, peaceful year 2024 with many wonderful moments and great milestones for Neuss.
During their free time, many Neuss citizens are likely to engaging in activities related to the upcoming Neuss State Garden Show, which will showcase horticultural exhibits and urban green developments. Additionally, following the current climate protection initiatives taken by the city, one might anticipate reading about general news articles discussing Neuss's efforts to promote renewable energy sources and improve energy efficiency.