Commotion around summer bar in Hemiksem continues: opposition demands audit, majority refuses

Opposition parties in Hemiksem have demanded a thorough review of the municipal administration, citing concerns over the handling of permits and concessions, particularly regarding a controversial summer bar near the Sint-Bernardusabdij. An extra municipal council meeting was convened to address the issue, which has escalated due to a pending procedure at the Council of State challenging the summer bar's permit.

Parties Vooruit, Samen Hemiksem, and Vlaams Belang argue that numerous errors have occurred in the past when awarding permits. Cliff Mostien of Samen Hemiksem highlighted instances where regulations were copied incorrectly from other municipalities, indicating a potential lack of diligence or competence. "Is it a lack of knowledge or a lack of decisiveness? An external audit seemed ideal to expose that," Mostien stated, suggesting it would provide clarity and potentially exonerate the college of aldermen if issues were unfounded.

Rodney Talboom from Vooruit stressed that the opposition's aim is not a witch hunt but to ensure legal certainty for entrepreneurs and associations engaging with the municipality. He noted that many individuals have expressed concerns and have lost contracts, emphasizing the need for transparency and reliable processes.

However, the municipal majority, led by Mayor Jenne Meyvis, has rejected the call for an audit. Meyvis views the demand as a significant expression of distrust towards the municipal services. The administration has decided to wait for the verdict from the Council of State and a separate complaint filed with the Interior Administration, which will automatically trigger a form of audit. "We can certainly be better assisted legally if that proves necessary," Meyvis conceded, acknowledging that the regulations surrounding municipal contracts are becoming increasingly complex.