Geratal elects Dominik Straube again: New plans for tourism and infrastructure!

Geratal elects Dominik Straube again: New plans for tourism and infrastructure!

Domink Straube (CDU) was re-elected in the mayoral election in Geratal with 67.5% of the vote. His challenger Jens Hendriks from the Free Voters' Community received 32.5% of the vote. The voter turnout was 52.1%. Straube plans to strengthen the tourist infrastructure in Geratal, with the use of the Lütschetalsperre as a local recreation area playing a central role. The planned construction projects also include the renovation of the Rolf Schumann Hall in Frankenhain, which indicates an active plan to improve regional offerings.

The Lütschetalsperre, which was built in the 1930s to supply water to the Deutsche Reichsbahn, complements the quartet of dams below the Rennsteig. Today the dam is used primarily for flood protection and local recreation. It is about 1 km long and 200 m wide. In contrast to other dams in the area, such as the Alte Tambacher and the Ohra Dam, swimming is permitted here. A bathing beach and various leisure opportunities for water and fishing enthusiasts make the Lütschetalsperre an attractive destination for those seeking relaxation. However, the water temperature rarely reaches more than 20 degrees, even in midsummer.

Challenges and new initiatives

Despite the positive developments in Geratal, the municipality is faced with a challenging budget situation, particularly due to falling income, especially from trade tax. In order to strengthen the region's competitiveness, the Southern Thuringia Chamber of Industry and Commerce and District Administrator Robert Sesselmann (AfD) are initiating consultation hours for entrepreneurs. The first consultation hour is announced for May 20th, with further appointments in September and December.

In Schmiedefeld am Rennsteig, preparations are currently underway for the upcoming season in the forest pool, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. The season starts on June 13th with weekly work assignments to maintain the facility. Admission prices remain stable: for adults they cost 2.50 euros, reduced prices 1.50 euros. The big birthday is celebrated on July 6th.

Sustainability and infrastructure

Meininger Busbetriebs GmbH is planning to use three new electric buses this fall with the aim of promoting environmentally friendly mobility. Another focus is on a new direct connection from Meiningen via Kaltennordheim to Fladenen, which will go into operation from August. This should further improve the traffic structure.

In Suhl, the surveillance cameras installed three years ago are up for discussion. Since they do not comply with data protection regulations, they are ordered to be dismantled. The city of Suhl has lodged an objection against the decision of the state data protection officer.

An action week for caring relatives in the Schmalkalden-Meiningen district is taking place this week with the aim of presenting support offers and promoting exchange among those affected. The program on Monday will be offered at the district office from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The operating license for the Protestant kindergarten “Sonnenschein” in Schmalkalden has been secured. The city has submitted plans and funding for necessary renovation work to address existing structural deficiencies. In addition, a new newsletter for the residents of Oberhof, Schleusingen, Suhl and Zella-Mehlis is published every six weeks, so that those interested can register on the South Thuringia Regional Center website.

For further information on the tourist offerings, including the Lütschetalsperre, those interested can visit the website Tourism Thuringian Forest visit.