Today's conversation: Antje Boekhoff on the central issue: the situation surrounding the island cemetery.

FDP Norderney: Why do you want to run for the Norderney City Council?

Antje Boekhoff: I don't just want to talk about problems, but help find solutions. Many decisions in local politics directly affect our daily lives. That's why I want to take responsibility and actively work for our island.

FDP Norderney: What is particularly important to you in local politics?

Antje Boekhoff: Honesty, reliability, and respectful interaction are important to me. Decisions should be transparent, and people should feel that their concerns are taken seriously. Politics must be close to the citizens and tackle problems.

FDP Norderney: Why is the FDP particularly well-suited for you?

Antje Boekhoff: Because pragmatic and solution-oriented politics is central to me. I believe challenges should be addressed openly and good solutions sought together.

FDP Norderney: Is there an issue that is particularly close to your heart?

Antje Boekhoff: Yes, the Norderney cemetery. It is a place of remembrance, farewell, and dignity. That's why it's important to me that it is well organized and does justice to its special character.

FDP Norderney: Why does this issue move you so much?

Antje Boekhoff: Through my profession, I am regularly at the cemetery and experience many things firsthand. For years, I have seen that there is room for improvement in some areas – in processes, organization, and also in the condition of the cemetery. I wish this issue would finally be addressed together.

FDP Norderney: What specifically should change in your view?

Antje Boekhoff: I would like to see clear responsibilities and a long-term solution for the cemetery. It should also be openly examined whose responsibility our island cemetery should best be placed under in the future.

Anyone who regularly visits the cemetery notices that there is a need for action in some areas. The chapel and the viewing hall are showing their age and, in my view, no longer meet either the technical or aesthetic standards of a place of dignified farewell. I also see urgent need for action on the grounds themselves. Some areas could appear better maintained and existing spaces could be better utilized. With thoughtful design, the cemetery could overall become more welcoming, more dignified, and more sustainable – always with the necessary respect for this special place.

FDP Norderney: Why is this issue also politically important?

Antje Boekhoff: Because it affects many people. Almost every family comes into contact with the cemetery at some point. That's why this issue should not be treated as a side matter.

It is important to me that politics, administration, the operator, funeral directors, and interested citizens work together to consider how the cemetery can be sensibly developed. Good solutions emerge when all stakeholders engage in dialogue.

FDP Norderney: What do you want to achieve overall on the council?

Antje Boekhoff: I want to help ensure that problems are addressed openly and solved step by step. Politics that listens, takes responsibility, and finds practical solutions is important to me. The cemetery is a matter close to my heart. I want to ensure that such an important infrastructural place for our island community is not lost sight of. Renewing streets, bus stops, and pedestrian zones is important – but so is our cemetery. I wish for open and transparent dialogue with all stakeholders.

FDP Norderney: What would you like to convey to the voters?

Antje Boekhoff: I am running because I want to work for Norderney with heart, mind, and great commitment. It is important to me to listen, take responsibility, and make a difference together with the people.