More attention, more influence, and a dedicated district budget. These are the main wishes of the 39 district and village councils in Rotterdam. About 100 district council members gathered on April 5 at De Doelen to evaluate the district council system and establish improvement points.
Sander de Kramer and Bas van Eijsden (20), village council member of Rozenburg, were the hosts of the afternoon. In several discussion rounds, participants focused on themes such as authority, working methods, district representation, and support & cooperation.
Becoming More Involved
Participants find it essential to have their own district budget. This allows them to quickly address certain issues without first having to ask for permission. The district councils also want to be more involved in the preparation and implementation of policies. And if the college rejects a district councils advice, the district council should have the option to approach the municipal council themselves.
Additionally, district council members indicated that they want to be taken seriously. They are elected representatives of the people, not civil servants. A fixed and stronger support from the municipality could help with this.
Elections in 2026
It was the second district council conference since the introduction of the 37 district and 2 village councils in 2022. In March 2026, new elections are scheduled for the municipal council and the district and village councils. The conference was therefore a good opportunity to see how the district council system is working and what can be improved. In the spring, the municipal council will discuss the system. On May 14, the district and village councils can speak.