The Oostkamp municipal council has unanimously signed a letter addressed to the Flemish Government, highlighting the financial consequences of recent budget decisions. Mayor Jan de Keyser brought the different parties together to send a joint signal, transcending majority and opposition lines.
According to the municipality's financial calculations, Oostkamp will receive a total of €2.2 million less between 2026 and 2031 than previously anticipated. The letter points to rising costs for energy, building materials, and services, while residents expect quality service provision and safe infrastructure.
The municipal multi-year plan is based on agreements made with Flanders. Changes to these agreements during the administrative period directly affect the choices and commitments the municipality has already made.
The municipal council urges the Flemish Government to take the impact of its decisions seriously, respect the previously made funding agreements, and work together to find solutions. The appeal is supported by all parties, as the financial future of Oostkamp, Waardamme, Ruddervoorde, and Hertsberge affects all residents.
“"Good governance requires mutual trust and predictability between authorities. Our residents count on a strong local government, and for that, we need stable and reliable funding."
The municipal council asks Flanders to seriously consider the financial consequences for local authorities and to investigate how the impact can be limited or compensated. They emphasize that a financially healthy Flanders should not come at the expense of financially healthy municipalities.
