Hanau honors retiring Lord Mayor Claus Kaminsky

Claus Kaminsky, the longest-serving Lord Mayor in Hesse, is retiring from his position in Hanau at the end of September. During a farewell ceremony held at the Schloss Philippsruhe amphitheater, Kaminsky was named an honorary citizen of the city, the highest distinction Hanau can bestow.

Hesse's Interior Minister, Roman Poseck, praised Kaminsky as an “honest and authentic” leader who served as the “face of this city” through significant challenges. Key milestones highlighted during his tenure include Hanau gaining independence from the Main-Kinzig district and the major redevelopment of the city center.

Minister Poseck also specifically commended Kaminsky’s leadership following the racist attack on February 19, 2020, noting that he served as a vital voice for the community and worked to maintain social cohesion during that period of mourning. Kaminsky, 66, will be succeeded by the 35-year-old SPD politician Maximilian Bieri.