Will Emmen play for Sinterklaas? Now that the municipality has ended up with a plus of 25 million in 2022, there is room. At least, that’s what several groups in the city council think about it. Also Wakker Emmen and D66.
The factions call for an investigation into making free tickets for Wildlands available to all group 8 students in the municipality. On average, this concerns a number of between 900 and 1200 children per year.
Every student should be able to visit the park once, argued party leader Leo Hoogenberg of Wakker Emmen. “And because Wildlands is part of us, we want to encourage that.”
It is the intention that the zoo and the Atlas Theater do not pay for the costs. Furthermore, both factions would like to see the action become a permanent part of the educational offer.
According to both parties, there are many families with a tight wallet for whom a day at the Wildlands is just too much. In that case, a visit to the Emmer Zoo is not possible. While the factions consider it important that every child under the age of 13 visits the park at least once in their life. The plan would also contribute to a more positive image of the park. “And people also digest some,” says Hoogenberg.
Alderman Jisse Otter is sympathetic to the motion. “I think it’s fine to do research and map out the consequences.”
The mayor was not alone. The motion could also count on sufficient support from the council: in addition to other parties, coalition partner PvdA also expressed support.