In a closely contested mayoral election in Heidenau, Conny Oertel emerged victorious on April 13, 2025, securing 51.4 percent of the vote according to preliminary results. This victory came as Oertel, representing the Heidenauer Bürgerinitiative, managed to overturn a significant deficit from the first round of voting, where she had trailed her opponent, Marion Franz of the CDU, by approximately 20 percentage points.
The final tally showed Oertel winning by fewer than 200 votes, a narrow margin that underscores the competitive nature of the election. Franz, who received 48.6 percent of the votes, was unable to maintain her lead from the first round, where she had a clear advantage.
Notably, the election saw the exclusion of candidates Max Schreiber from the far-right party Freie Sachen and Christoph Mitschke from the Bürgerinitiative Oberelbe, both of whom had finished third and fourth respectively in the earlier round held in March 2025. Their absence from the ballot may have influenced the dynamics of the second round, as voters consolidated their support around the leading candidates.
Voter participation was relatively low, with only about 5,800 of the approximately 13,400 eligible voters casting their ballots. This resulted in a voter turnout of 43 percent, a figure that reflects a growing trend of apathy in local elections. The election was moved forward by one year due to the impending retirement of the long-serving incumbent mayor, Jürgen Opitz, who has held the position since 2012 and is set to retire on May 1, 2025.
Opitz’s tenure has been marked by various developments in the town of Heidenau, which has a population of 16,500 residents. His departure marks the end of an era, prompting local citizens to seek new leadership that aligns with their evolving needs and aspirations.
Oertel's campaign focused on revitalizing community engagement and addressing local issues that resonate with the electorate. Her ability to rally support, particularly in the second round, demonstrates a shift in voter sentiment, possibly reflecting a desire for change after years under Opitz’s administration.
As the new mayor, Oertel will face immediate challenges, including addressing public concerns about local infrastructure, economic development, and community safety. The election results indicate a clear mandate for her to implement her vision for Heidenau, as she steps into the role at a pivotal moment for the town.
In conclusion, the mayoral election in Heidenau has set the stage for a new chapter in the town's governance. With Oertel at the helm, residents are hopeful for a fresh perspective and proactive leadership that can navigate the complexities of local administration.
