What does the BVV do?

What does the BVV do?

  • The district assembly [Bezirksverordnetenversammlung] (BVV) represents the citizens of the district. It deliberates and decides on many issues that concern the district.
  • The BVV decides on proposals and recommendations, which are implemented by the district office [Bezirksamt]. It also decides on the district budget [Haushalt des Bezirks], that is, how money in the district is spent.
  • After the election, the BVV elects the district office [Bezirksamt], including the mayor and several councillors. They are elected by a simple majority and head the district office [Bezirksamt]. The mayor is usually elected on the proposal of the largest party.
  • The BVV also oversees the district office [Bezirksamt]. It checks how well members of the district office carry out their duties and whether they act in accordance with decisions made by the BVV. The BVV influences the work of the district office through proposals and recommendations
  • The BVV is responsible for all municipal matters that do not concern the entire city. These include district-level urban and green space planning, decisions on social and cultural services (e.g. youth and cultural centres), the planning and funding of public facilities such as playgrounds or swimming pools as well as support for the local economy.
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Practical example: Responsibility for building new homes

Accommodation is scarce and, as the number of people who want to live in Berlin increases, more homes need to be built – this is undisputed. However, where building takes place, how many homes are built and whether more rental, privately owned or social housing should be built is a matter of debate. Districts decide their own development plans, including where, how many and what type of homes are built. When building projects reach a certain size, they are reviewed by the Senate. For large projects of city-wide importance, the Senate may take responsibility for the project.