The municipal council of Oldambt must meet more openly about the Poort van Winschoten project. The council itself must also keep a closer eye on the pulse and take control of the progress of this tens of millions of euros project.
The audit committee, chaired by Elias de Haan, makes these recommendations. On behalf of the Oldambt council, the committee conducted research into the quality of the project organization and decision-making in the project Gate of Winschoten in relation to the supervisory role of the municipal council.
Gate of Winschoten
With the Gate of Winschoten This refers to the new construction of the town hall and associated urban development in the heart of Winschoten. The audit committee has made a number of recommendations, but one of the most important recommendations, as far as De Haan is concerned, has not yet been adopted. Meetings where possible and necessary, in all openness.
De Haan and his fellow committee members believe that a project like the Gate of Winschoten is such a large project and therefore carries the risk of ‘escalation of commitment’. De Haan therefore believes it is important that the council can question the council about progress, possible risks and private changes at pre-agreed times and in the manner desired by the council.
Being on top of the project
“The council must be on top of this project. Because not only the council but also the executive must be accountable. And the council is always ultimately responsible.” De Haan therefore advises a more proactive attitude from the council. The audit committee believes that private meetings about this project should be prevented. “They have to keep their finger on the pulse even more.”
“Legally speaking, meeting in private is not secretive or illegal and it is not prohibited either. Personally, I hate private meetings. Democratically speaking, it is a monstrosity.”
Openness increases trust in public administration
According to De Haan, openness ensures that trust from society is strengthened and therefore also confidence in public administration. “But the council chooses its own method. We have made a number of recommendations, but apparently the council has opted for a more wait-and-see attitude.”
After studying the report, the council has indicated that it would like to discuss its wishes with the council. If the council needs proposals from the council, they will be responded to.