Leuven Alderwoman Steps Down for University Role; Successor Named

Leuven's CD&V party is seeing a change in its executive leadership as alderwoman Liesbeth Vandermeeren departs after just one year in the role. Vandermeeren is moving on to a new professional opportunity as a coordinator for the Accountancy-Fiscality program at UCLL University College. She stated that the offer was a chance she could only seize now, making the decision to leave her municipal duties difficult.

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I have thought about that offer for a long time. Ultimately, I came to the conclusion that this is an opportunity I can only seize now. That doesn't make saying goodbye to the alderman's office any less difficult.

Taking over Vandermeeren's portfolio is municipal councilor Katrien Vermijlen. She will assume responsibility for key areas including youth, tourism, civil affairs, and accessibility. Vermijlen expressed enthusiasm for the new role, seeing it as a natural progression from her previous political work in Leuven, which includes experience as vice-chair of CD&V Leuven and involvement in sports and housing committees.

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I did not hesitate to accept the offer. It is a nice continuation of what I have been working on for several years.

Vermijlen plans to continue the initiatives started by Vandermeeren but also intends to implement her own priorities. She highlighted the need for more spaces for young people to socialize and engage in music, ensuring these activities do not cause disturbances. Additionally, Vermijlen sees significant opportunities in developing Leuven's tourism sector, particularly in anticipation of its designation as a cultural capital, emphasizing the need for more accommodation and the expansion of congress tourism.

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What I find very important is that there must be more space for young people to party, to make music, and to express themselves. And in a place where that does not cause nuisance.

While taking on the demanding role of alderwoman, Vermijlen also plans to maintain a connection with her own pharmacy in Kessel-Lo, where she has worked for 30 years. She hopes to continue working one or two half-days per week, though acknowledges that feasibility will depend on her new schedule. Vandermeeren will officially hand over her duties to Vermijlen on October 1st.

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Also in terms of tourism, there are many challenges, as Leuven is on the verge of becoming a cultural capital. I think there is definitely a need for extra overnight stays and hotels. Congress tourism can also be further developed.