During lunch in the Lindehuis, everything is shared with the mayor. “Those slugs in your garden? Yes, that could be a problem.” But more important matters are also discussed. “For example, we just talked about the incident at the fair,” says Langenacker. “But also about waste or safety in the neighborhood. I like to listen and if necessary, I try to act accordingly.” Through all these conversations she learns what is going on among the residents and she also learns to understand the people of Zeist a little. “I think the average resident of Zeist is very friendly. I sincerely mean that. I think people in Zeist are very hospitable, to newcomers, but also to me. I also notice the diversity. Many people who don’t know Zeist well think that it is a chic municipality, but because I have seen the different neighborhoods, I notice that there are many differences. There are people with quite a lot of money, but a quarter of the residents of Zeist live in poverty.”
The headline is off, how were the first 100 days of the new Zeister mayor?: ‘Lots of soup and hospitality’
