rssMar 16, 2026, 19:00

Voting for district committees on Wednesday too, but what do they do?

Amsterdam residents are voting for both the city council and district committees this Wednesday, though many are unfamiliar with the committees' roles as intermediaries between the public and city government. These committees provide advice and set neighborhood priorities, serving as a political entry point for new representatives. In an experimental move, 16 and 17-year-olds are also eligible to vote for these district positions.

Politics Lifestyle Amsterdam Netherlands

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Preparations for paid parking in Ter Kleefkwartier begin

Starting March 1, 2027, paid parking will be implemented across the entire Ter Kleefkwartier neighborhood in Haarlem to manage high parking demand. The initiative is part of a broader city council plan to expand parking zones and build four new garages to improve street safety and accessibility.

Ingrid and Steven overlook the Zaanse Schans: 'A privilege to live in such a special place'

After living abroad for thirty years, Ingrid and Steven Ploem have settled in their 'forever home' in Zaandijk. Their residence features a view of the historic Zaanse Schans and has been custom-designed to their specific preferences.

No-nonsense barber Jan Dortmundt of Heart & Soul: Keeping it basic works best

Jan Dortmundt is retiring from his barbershop, Hart & Ziel, located in a former church on Kleverparkweg in Haarlem. The business will be taken over by Brenda Roffel and Cindy Jansen, who plan to preserve the salon's original no-nonsense atmosphere.

Ban cigarettes: every beach must become completely smoke-free

A weekly proposition asks readers for their opinions on whether all beaches should become completely smoke-free. The debate focuses on the potential ban of cigarettes to improve the beach environment and public health.

Labor Inspectorate intervenes after illegal asbestos removal in Badhoevedorp

The Dutch Labor Inspection halted construction work at a building in Badhoevedorp following reports of unsafe working conditions and illegal asbestos removal. The intervention occurred in March after the FNV union and others raised concerns about the site's labor standards.