Ruiselede on its way to referendum on merger plans
The discontent reached a peak at the 75th anniversary of the hamlet of Kruiskerke. The residents spoke to each other and it was clear that no one agreed with how it went. “The decisions were made over our heads, we had no say. Why have we not also looked at partners such as Aalter, Tielt or Beernem?”, asks initiator Marc Vandaele.
In themselves they are not against a merger with Wingene, they just want to look at other options. “We understand that we will have to merge in a few years’ time, but we might as well keep our own identity for a few more years.”
More than required number of signatures
In about two months, the petition has more than 1000 signatures from residents of Ruiselede, Kruiskerke and Doomkerke. In order to have a referendum, the petition must count for 20 percent of the eligible voters. “With 840 signatures, we have enough, but we want to err on the side of caution.”
In the coming weeks, a lawyer will consider the petition and then submit it.