More than 100 city leaders from all continents of the world are currently guests in Vienna. And even mayor Michael Ludwig is surprised about what his colleagues are interested in and inspires here.
The mayor of Saudi-Arabic Djidda and that of Boulder in the American state of Colorado almost missed the photo shoot because they delve into conversation about subtleties of local taxes-a typical image during the “World Mayors Forum”, in which Vienna organizes more than 100 city leaders from all over the world. In three days, local politicians will complete a densely clocked Express program of meetings, visits and possibilities for informal exchange and sometimes not out of surprise.
The cooperative building, the unknown being
The managers of the seestadt had a great need for explanation when they tried to explain the funded homes in Vienna to the guests: no, they are not all municipal buildings or freely financed apartments. Here there is something that calls one cooperative. And there are even subsidized apartments that can be purchased. Unbelieving surprise.
The astonishment took place when the wooden high clearance was visited in the city of the sea: the fact that windows could be opened in a 15 -storey building was surprised. And that the wooden windows are also made of it. The public connection also had to be explained on request: no, that was still Vienna, it was also in the middle in 20 minutes. Really in the middle? Yes, really in the middle.
Honored to the morning walk
Almost all mayors expressed enthusiasm about the interaction of old and new buildings in the city. You have never seen such a soft urban renewal in advance. Many knew that Vienna had a lot of greenery – but found surprising that you can find it in the middle of the city. According to reports, a mayor from Southeast Asia said that he has been delegated for another walk since arrival.
Mayor Michael Ludwig saw the perspective from outside to the city and said: “We as Viennese are used to it and often think about it: how else is it?” In addition to the excursions and informal exchange, there are mainly both important discussions about all collected city leaders in the center of the Global Mayors Forum in Vienna.
“Speed dating” for modest city bosses
Given more than 100 participants, time is scarce: every mayor only gets 90 seconds to convince the others of their ideas. The audience is not approved. Mayor Michael Ludwig, as a host, did not know what to expect and was all the more enthusiastic about the contributions. However, as a result of the mayor forum, a publication must appear in which the results of the conference are read for everyone.
Compared to the “Kroon” in the maps, only Jorge Cordero, Vice -Mayor of the Venezuelan Metropool Caracas. Despite all the problems there – needs, crime – the city bosses can also learn something from him, he is convinced: because the population is much deeper into decisions, even at the local level, social peace has grown considerably. In any case, the most important property for mayors around the world is clear “humility”: only those who are really happy if they can talk to citizens is suitable for the job.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
