The scout recommends a cooperation agreement between the VVD, D66, and Lokaal Wassenaar!
Explorer Mr. Jan Iedema (Alderman Zoetermeer) has concluded his exploration of the possibilities for forming a new coalition. On Wednesday, April 8, 2026, he presented his report at De Paauw City Hall in the presence of council and committee members.
Mr. Iedema has recently spoken with all political parties about their interpretation of the election results, their views on forming a coalition, differences in policy, the desired style of governance, and their willingness to participate in a stable municipal government with a positive agenda. The VVD wanted an explorer to assess all possibilities for cooperation without any preemptive obstacles.
Based on the discussions held, Mr. Iedema has drafted a report. His assessment shows that all parties are primarily looking for stable leadership and a coalition that can count on broad support. In this regard, they all emphasize the importance of constructive cooperation during the coming term of office.
Presentation of findings and recommendations
During his presentation, Mr. Iedema looked back on the exploratory talks and outlined the key insights. Based on this, he advised the city council on the most appropriate next step toward forming a coalition. His conclusion is that the formation process can begin with the VVD, D66, and Lokaal Wassenaar! parties—a combination that reflects the election results and the substantive agreements between them.
Recommendations
In addition, Mr. Iedema outlined key points of focus that serve as a framework for a different management style. In this regard, it is important to continue actively investing together in a healthy meeting culture. It is also advisable to revise the rules of procedure so that they better align with the desired management culture. Finally, consideration could be given to establishing clear agreements in a cooperation agreement where necessary and to working on other topics based on broad outlines and guiding principles, with the involvement of the entire council.
Working Together for a Positive Agenda
The parties involved in forming the government wish to engage in discussions with all other political groups regarding the substance of the coalition and are calling on them to join this process so that they can collectively take responsibility for a stable and forward-looking coalition.
VVD party leader Laurens van Doeveren is pleased with how the exploratory talks have gone:
“The exploratory talks have provided valuable insights into how the parties view the future of Wassenaar and what willingness there is to share responsibility. It is good that this process was carefully and broadly designed. With the advice of explorer Mr. Jan Iedema, there is now a solid foundation for the next step toward a cooperation agreement with a positive agenda for Wassenaar.”
Follow-up steps
Mr. Iedema has been asked by the parties involved in the coalition talks to serve as a mediator to guide the process of forming a coalition and a municipal executive. The goal is to reach a cooperation agreement as soon as possible.
