In any case, there are big plans for the ground floor. “The reception area looks fine.” But in terms of safety, it leaves much to be desired. It often happens that the police have to be called in for unfriendly guests. The police are now located in the town hall. “Not everyone is equally friendly. We want staff to do their job safely.”
The council chamber is also located on the ground floor. That too is going up. The intention is to make it multifunctional. Where you can get married, and perhaps meet.
For example, an inner sofa in the middle is being considered, so that employees can meet in a more informal way. The room can also be expanded in the plans by including a meeting room.
The facilities for council meetings could also be improved, both for the politicians and for visitors. They are now sitting on the edge, just on a chair. A better grandstand is needed for that, for better visibility. For an even better view, the idea is to place large screens on the walls. “Instead of staring at a television screen on the floor”, as is the case now. And everywhere there is a desire to install better digital facilities.
It’s all about a lot of money. The city council is asked for 7.8 million euros. If approved, the refurbishment could take place in 2025 and 2026. The intention is that work will continue in the town hall during the renovation. Only when it is the turn of the ground floor, the reception area for visitors, will a temporary alternative be sought.
In the meantime, other cost items of several millions await. Rising costs in youth care, the construction of a new city entrance (8 million) and the renovation of the Ogterop theater (20 million).