Soest prepares for local elections with new ballot system and expanded polling options
Residents of Soest can vote in the upcoming municipal council elections on 18 March using a new, clearer ballot paper. With 29 polling stations and volunteer support, the municipality ensures accessibility for all voters, including those with disabilities.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Election Date | 18 March 2026 |
| Number of Polling Stations | 29 |
| New Ballot Paper | Clearer, two-step voting process (party, then candidate) |
| Special Polling Station | National Military Museum (open 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.) |
| Accessibility Features | Wheelchair-friendly, ballot templates for visually impaired voters |
| Assistance for Voters | Available at De Basis (12 March) and town hall (from 11 March) |
| Voting Hours | 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. (most stations) |
| Website for More Information | www.nieuwstembiljet.nl |
The Municipality of Soest is responsible for organizing local elections, ensuring that all residents can participate in democratic processes. This includes managing polling stations, providing accessible voting options, and educating voters on procedural changes, such as the new ballot paper.
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Municipality of Soest ready for municipal council elections
On 18 March, the municipal council elections will take place. Over the past few months, a great deal of work has gone into organising the elections properly. Residents have already received information at home about the new ballot paper, polling card and the list of candidates. Together with numerous volunteers, Soest is now ready to organise the election for every voter.
Volunteers essential for the organisation
With no fewer than 29 polling stations and all the votes to be counted, the involvement of volunteers is indispensable. We are therefore grateful to all residents who have volunteered to help.
In the municipality of Soest, voters will use a new ballot paper in this election
This ballot paper is clearer, more accessible and easier to use. With the new ballot paper, voters will colour two boxes red. First, you choose a political party and then a candidate from that same party. The names of the candidates are no longer on the ballot paper itself, but on a separate list of candidates with all the parties and candidates. Residents will receive this list at home and it will also be available in the polling booth. A detailed explanation and an instructional video are available on the website www.nieuwstembiljet.nl.
Extra explanation about the new ballot paper
On Thursday 12 March, residents can get help with this at De Basis in Soesterberg. A municipal employee will be on hand there from 9.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m. to assist residents.
From Wednesday 11 March onwards, residents can also go to the town hall. The town hall is open from Monday to Thursday from 8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. and on Friday from 8.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.
Residents may vote at any polling station in the municipality of Soest
The polling stations are open from 7.30 a.m. to 9.00 p.m. All polling stations are accessible for people with disabilities and are wheelchair-friendly. There are more polling stations accessible for wheelchair users than for mobility scooter users. For a mobility scooter, the doors must open automatically.
The National Military Museum has been designated as a special polling station. This polling station has different opening hours. It is open from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.
In the town hall and at De Drie Eiken in Soesterberg, voters with a visual impairment can cast their vote using a ballot template and a soundbox.
More information
More information about the municipal council elections in the municipality of Soest and the new ballot paper: Elections.