Solingen mourns Hans-Heinrich Dehl, a pillar of local governance for decades
Hans-Heinrich Dehl, a long-serving public figure in Solingen, has died at the age of 88. Born in the city, he dedicated much of his life to its administration and political life. His career spanned decades, leaving a lasting mark on local governance.
Dehl’s interest in politics began early when he joined the Young Democrats. By 1969, he had become an FDP representative on the Solingen City Council. His shift from politics to administration came in 1975, when he took on the role of deputy mayor, overseeing legal affairs, public safety, and order.
Between 1976 and 1987, and again from 1991 to 1995, he served as city director and general deputy to the chief administrative officer. For six months in 1981, he even led the city administration during a vacancy in the chief city director’s position. Beyond this, he temporarily stepped in as interim director of Solingen’s municipal utilities to ensure stability after the sudden departure of the previous head. Dehl was known for his problem-solving skills and adaptability. He took a particular interest in the fire department, civil protection, and the early adoption of computer technology in local government. Mayor Tim Kurzbach remembered him as a highly respected expert who approached challenges with pragmatism. Kurzbach extended his deepest condolences to Dehl’s family, highlighting his lifelong commitment to Solingen and its residents.
Dehl’s death marks the end of an era for Solingen’s administration. His work shaped key areas of city governance, from public safety to technological modernisation. The city recognises his contributions as both a politician and an administrator.
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