Long-serving department head Joachim Kolbe retires at the end of 2025
Joachim Kolbe will retire from Langen’s municipal administration at the end of 2025. His career in the city spans nearly five decades, marked by major contributions to culture, sports, and urban development. Mayor Jan Werner has publicly recognised his long-standing service and impact on the community.
Kolbe first joined Langen’s town hall in 1977, starting his work on Südliche Ringstraße. By 1982, he had shifted into press and public relations, taking on greater responsibilities within the administration.
In 1983, he developed a data-protection-compliant method for the upcoming census. Four years later, he moved into the organisation and IT department, where he introduced the city’s first computers. His work modernised administrative processes during this period. Kolbe’s focus turned to culture in 1989 when he took charge of cultural affairs. One of his key projects was transforming the old district court into the Kulturhaus Altes Amtsgericht. Then, in 1993, he became head of the Culture and Sports Office, overseeing further growth in the city’s cultural scene. Since 2014, he has led the Department of Urban Development, Economy, Culture, and Sports. Under his leadership, Langen saw the creation of the Neue Stadthalle, city pools, Ironman events, and museum projects. His name remains closely tied to many of the city’s most recognisable initiatives. Matthias Wilkes will take over as head of Department 4 at Langen Town Hall following Kolbe’s departure.
Kolbe’s retirement on December 31, 2025, marks the end of a 48-year career in Langen. His work has left a lasting mark on the city’s infrastructure, cultural institutions, and public life. Matthias Wilkes is set to succeed him in the role.
