Earlier this year, the Municipality of Sint-Katelijne-Waver launched its citizen budget, an initiative empowering residents to realize projects for their neighborhood with a dedicated budget. The first call for proposals yielded three ideas, though one unfortunately proved unfeasible.
During a citizen vote in July, residents selected their preferred project from the two remaining proposals. Subsequently, the initiators presented their plans to a jury comprising the college of aldermen and representatives of the municipal citizen councils. Project proposals were scored based on criteria including the action plan, impact on the municipality, and attention to specific groups.
'Beelden in Waver Dorp' scored 50 points in the citizen vote and 35 points in the jury presentation, totaling 85 points. This project will receive the requested subsidy of 50,000 euros.
The project 'Troostplek met Warme William' (Consolation Spot with Warm William) received 41 points from residents and 41 points from the jury, for a total of 82 points. They will receive a subsidy of 10,000 euros to realize their project.
With 'Beelden in Waver Dorp', the Jozef Van Rompay-Davidsfonds-Genootschap and Waverfeest aim to enrich the revitalized village center with a work of art that tells the story of the village and its inhabitants. Potential sources of inspiration include local elements like 'Hovaardig Waver', Torekenswaver, the Waverse dialect, and local tales. The exact design of the artwork is yet to be determined.
The Gezinsbond Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Waver intends to create a green 'Troostplek' (consolation spot) for moments of rest. Central to this will be a 'Warme William' bench, designed to encourage conversation and listening. The space may also feature trees, greenery, natural seating, flowers, a memorial wall, and information on support services. Activities are planned to keep the spot vibrant.
A new call for citizen budget projects will be issued in 2028. However, residents are encouraged to develop ideas at any time.
