The Municipality of Wassenaar bids farewell to three aldermen

Over the past three years, they have worked with the mayor and aldermen to make a significant contribution to a safe, livable, and future-proof Wassenaar within their respective policy areas. The municipality is deeply grateful to them for this. In the council information letter “Looking Back on the 20 Term,” you will find a more detailed review of everything this administration has worked to achieve. 

Ritske Bloemendaal – Social Services, Housing, and Education

During this term of office, Ritske Bloemendaal has achieved significant results in the areas of housing, Health education. In collaboration with him, 315 new homes have been completed by the two housing associations and a private developer at locations on Stompwijckstraat, Poortlaan/Ridderlaan, Rozensteinstraat, and Havenkade. In addition, permits have been granted for housing developments on Van Rechterenstraat and the ANWB site.

The Wassenaar Social Team, which has been operational since September 1, 2023, is an independent organization that scores highly on customer satisfaction: residents give their first contact an average rating of 7.8, 92% feel they are treated kindly, and 88% feel heard. The Integrated Housing Plan (IHP) offers schools a roadmap for renovation and new construction, and several school boards have already begun planning. The Social Domain Policy Plan, the Housing and Care Vision, and the Youth Policy lay a solid foundation upon which the new municipal executive can build.

Wim Koetsier – Space, Sustainability, and Mobility

Wim Koetsier has been dedicated to creating a clean, well-maintained, and green living environment in Wassenaar. He is known for his energy and sincere commitment to the day-to-day living environment in Wassenaar. He worked closely with the public works staff, thereby contributing to a green and well-maintained municipality.

With the road categorization plan and the rapid implementation of a 30 km/h speed limit on most roads, visible steps have been taken toward a safer traffic environment. A provincial subsidy of 12.8 million euros has been pledged for the redevelopment of the Noordrand, specifically for recreation and nature. In addition, Wim Koetsier has worked on a direct and visible approach to the outdoor environment through a neighborhood-focused five-point plan, in which staff in the neighborhoods make a difference in the daily living environment.

Ronald Zoutendijk – Culture and Well-being

Ronald Zoutendijk has worked to foster a strong and vibrant community network in Wassenaar. The revised grant policy, which took effect on January 1, 2025, has provided organizations and volunteers with greater certainty and better prospects for the future.

Under his leadership, the Youth Center was opened and the WassUP! pilot program was launched, allowing young people to actively participate and make their voices heard online. Irreversible decisions have been made regarding the Warenar that may be implemented in the coming years. A permit has also been granted for the new health center in the former St. Jozef Church in Wassenaar North. Ronald Zoutendijk has worked to build a community where residents of all ages actively participate and feel at home.

Mayor Leendert de Lange: "Collaboration doesn’t mean thinking alike, but reaching a common goal together. That is exactly what this administration has done over the past three years: working together with one another, with the council, and with the residents of Wassenaar. The results are visible in our town center, along the coast, in the neighborhoods, and in the people we have been able to support. I am proud of what we have achieved together and grateful for the dedication and commitment of all three aldermen."