Grenzach-Wyhlen council to decide fate of Emilienpark care home next week
Emilienpark Care Home Faces Pivotal Decision as Municipality Considers Sale to AWO Baden
The future of the Emilienpark care home hangs in the balance, with the municipality of Grenzach-Wyhlen poised to sell the facility to AWO Baden.
On Tuesday, April 28, 2026, the local council is set to debate a fundamental decision on the matter. According to municipal authorities, the building is currently owned by the town and leased to AWO Baden until early 2036. However, extensive renovations—estimated to cost between two and three million euros—will be required in the coming years.
Additionally, under state residential care regulations, shared rooms must be converted into single occupancy, necessitating further structural changes. The administration also considers an extension of the building advisable to offset the loss of care beds and meet modern energy and climate protection standards. These investments, officials say, would place an unsustainable financial burden on the municipality.
AWO Baden has expressed interest in purchasing the facility and, in the event of a takeover, would assume responsibility for both the renovations and long-term operation. This, the town hall asserts, would relieve pressure on the municipal budget while ensuring that local access to care services remains intact.
As of the end of 2025, the care home's remaining book value stood at approximately €3.1 million. If the sale proceeds, ownership could transfer as early as September 1, 2026. AWO Baden would commit to continuing operations beyond 2036.
The contract would also legally bind the facility to remain a care home, with the municipality retaining a right of first refusal in the event of any future resale. Without a sale, officials warn, there is a risk that no operator will take over once the current lease expires.
The council will first vote on the principle of the sale. If approved, a final purchase agreement will be drafted and submitted for a second vote.
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