The local broadcaster ZO!34, active in Coevorden and Emmen, will probably not have to count on extra money from the municipality of Coevorden for the next two years for the deployment of journalists. The municipality does, as previously decided, want to contribute to viewing and listening research.
Alderman Joop Slomp (PvdA) reported this on Thursday evening during the Coevorden budget discussion. During this meeting, the CDA faction announced a proposal to financially support the local broadcaster for the next two years. A similar request will also be discussed next week by the municipal council in Emmen.
The background to this is that pilot projects for professional journalism at the local broadcaster were stopped this year. From 2026, money may again be available for local journalism, through a national scheme. As far as the CDA is concerned, it would be good to bridge the interim period of two years with a municipal subsidy. “This would allow the broadcaster to professionalize,” said Sandra Katerberg (CDA).
This would require 147,500 euros per year, with the proposed distribution key being that Coevorden pays one third and Emmen pays two thirds. According to the CDA, local broadcasting has an important function within democracy. According to this faction, the proposed investment could ensure that a strong local broadcaster is guaranteed. The PAC faction expressed its support for the CDA proposal. “Because we also think broadcasting is crucial,” said Jerry Stoker (PAC).
Councilor Slomp held off for the time being on Thursday. “Especially because it is not yet clear whether national subsidies will indeed be available from 2026,” the councilor said. “Legislation for this still needs to be developed and that makes it difficult for us to opt for a temporary subsidy. Because what will we say to the broadcaster in two years’ time, if the national scheme is not in place? Were we unlucky?”
The councilor did indicate that he was interested in the results of the viewing and listening survey. “On this basis, we will soon get a better idea of the broadcaster’s reach.” The city council will discuss this proposal further next Tuesday. Possible implementation of the subsidy plan also depends on decision-making in the Emmen municipal council next week.