New mayor

“We have a good culture of discussion in Meiningen”

Gerd Fleisch has already settled in well as mayor. The kindergarten has already visited.(Bild: zvg/Fleisch)

Gerd Fleisch has been mayor of Meiningen for a few weeks now. He told "Krone" what appeals to him about the office and what impressions he has gathered.

Krone: Mr. Fleisch, let's be honest: is Meiningen so dilapidated that the municipality needs a nurse as mayor?

Gerd Fleisch: (Laughs) No, no, it's not like that. Meiningen is a community worth living in, but - like many other municipalities - it is facing difficult times due to the tight financial situation.

You were a nurse for 39 years, a secure profession. Why did you switch to the ejector seat of a mayor?

It was always clear to me that I would be looking for a new challenge at the end of my career. When my predecessor Thomas Pinter asked me if I wanted to succeed him, I agreed - after consulting my wife.

Don't you miss your previous job at all?

It's not easy to forget almost 40 years. But the new task fascinates me now and I will dedicate myself to the office of mayor with the same intensity with which I last worked as a nurse at Valduna in Rankweil.

About the person

Gerd Fleisch grew up in Sulz, but has lived in Meiningen for 30 years. He has been a municipal representative for 19 years and a local councillor for six years. As an artistic cyclist, he has won several World Championship and European Championship medals. Fleisch is currently also chairman of the nursing association. Professional career: Fleisch began his professional career with an apprenticeship as an industrial electrician. After a year as an army athlete and two years as a journeyman, he completed his training as a qualified health and nursing professional. He teaches at the FH Dornbirn.

How were you received as mayor, what is your impression after your first few days in office?

How I was received will become clear in a year's time at the municipal council elections. On the day I took office, many children on the street addressed me as "Mr. Mayor". On the second day, the kindergarten came to visit to meet the new head of the municipality in person. That really touched me.

What is your basis for discussion with the local council?

We have had a good climate of discussion between the various political groups in Meiningen for many years. Even if we sometimes disagree, we can always look each other in the eye. I have never experienced it any differently in my 19 years as a member of the municipal council. And that hasn't changed now either.

Gerd Fleisch has been the head of Meiningen for a few days now. It appealed to him to make another career change.(Bild: Carola Eugsterwww.carolaeugster.com)

You come from a social profession, is that also reflected in your goals?

You'd almost have to think so, because we're going to make a difference in the health and social sector in particular. But not because I was a nurse, but because projects such as "meals on wheels" or various health policy priorities are absolutely essential.

How long do you want to remain mayor?

I'm 59 now, so if I'm elected in 2025, I'll be 65 at the next but one election in 2030. That would be the ideal time for me to retire - if I can find a successor.

And if not?

I can't say yet. That will of course depend on my health and developments in the municipality.