- The judicial body dismisses urgent refugee petition
The Court in Potsdam has dismissed an urgent appeal against a proposed refugee facility in the city. The court official noted that they didn't discover any flaws in the construction permit that could infringe on the rights of the nearby neighbors. The individual has the chance to submit an additional appeal to the Higher Administrative Court of Berlin-Brandenburg within a fortnight, as initially reported by "Tagesspiegel".
The city of Potsdam has been determined to push ahead with plans for a refugee shelter in the Kirchsteigfeld region. The location is deemed "perfect" due to its existing social amenities and reliable public transportation, according to a city hall spokesperson. Potsdam also intends to establish housing options for asylum seekers that are evenly distributed throughout the city and readily available in the long term.
The city plans to launch the facility in Q3 of 2024, yet the initiation of renovation work is still contingent upon addressing contractual issues, the city spokesperson stated.
Lack of Public Engagement Voiced
Several residents have expressed concerns over being excluded from the planning process for the shelter. A petition on change.org accused the authorities of creating "faits accomplis" without involving the community. Furthermore, residents reportedly received inaccurate information regarding the number of living spaces. The petition calls for "genuine" community involvement.
The project can accommodate up to 90 individuals, the city spokesperson responded. However, it has been agreed that only 60 individuals will be housed. The city also denies claims of a lack of engagement opportunities. "The relevant deputy mayor has already promised to arrange another meeting as soon as more details about the project become available," the spokesperson reiterated, with the promise still holding true.
The dismissed appeal has not been seen as a violation of justice by the protesters, as they continue to voice their concerns about lack of community involvement in the refugee facility planning. The Higher Administrative Court of Berlin-Brandenburg should consider this issue of justice in regards to public engagement when reviewing the additional appeal.
