2026–2030 Coalition Agreement for the Municipality of Kerkrade Officially Signed

The new coalition of Burgerbelangen Kerkrade, Ouderenpartij Kerkrade, and Ons Kerkrade presents its 2026–2030 coalition agreement: “Tsezame vuur ’t jeluk va Kirchroa.”  Alexander Geers, coalition negotiator and “ Alderman ,” summarizes the agreement as follows: “Over the next four years, the well-being of our residents will be our top priority. That’s why we’re focusing on what really matters: strong neighborhoods, a home for everyone, and opportunities for our youth.”

Strong and livable neighborhoods as a foundation

The coalition is fully committed to strengthening neighborhoods. According to the agreement, this is the foundation of a livable city. Investments are being made in more green spaces, safe public spaces, and local amenities, such as community centers where residents can meet. 

Residents will also have more say in their own neighborhoods through neighborhood budgets and (resident) initiatives. The municipality is committed to working closely with residents to improve quality of life, safety, and social cohesion. 

In addition, the approach in Kerkrade-Oost will be continued and, where possible, expanded, in order to further improve the quality of life and opportunities in these neighborhoods. 

A Major Boost for Housing Construction

To ease the pressure on the housing market, Kerkrade plans to build 1,300 to 1,500 new homes in the coming years.

These homes will be available in various price ranges and are intended for first-time homebuyers, families, and seniors. The municipality of Kerkrade also wants to give priority to local residents in need of housing when it comes to new construction and ensure that residents can continue to live independently for longer.

With this approach, the coalition aims to ensure that residents can continue to live in their own city and that neighborhoods remain healthy and livable.

Investing in Youth and Health

The coalition is making a clear commitment to the future by investing in youth and health. This will lead to a wider range of activities for young people, such as those offered at the new music venue, Flexiforum Live. 

The municipality also wants to actively combat loneliness among young people and give them a greater say, including through the Children’s Council and the Youth Advisory Council.

One notable measure is that every child receives €100 annually for sports, culture, or music, so that all children can participate, regardless of their family’s financial situation. 

In addition, the municipality is committed to promoting health by encouraging prevention, sports, and a healthy living environment

New City Council

The new municipal executive consists of Mayor Petra Dassen-Housen and five aldermen. Burgerbelangen Kerkrade provides three aldermen: Alexander Geers, Raoul Vinken, and Nicolle Heijltjes. Jo Paas is the “ Alderman ” from the Ouderenpartij Kerkrade, and John Roland represents Ons Kerkrade. Together, they form an executive committee that relies on a broad majority in the city council and is committed to stable and decisive governance.

Building a Happy Kerkrade Together

A key component of the coalition agreement is the Social Pact, in which the municipality, businesses, educational institutions, and civil society organizations work together. The coalition emphasizes that we can only make a real impact if we join forces. That is why the goals were developed in collaboration with partners in the city, and the organizations involved are actively committed to their implementation. The agreement is thus not only a political document but also an invitation to all partners in the city to help shape the future of Kerkrade. “We are not creating this agreement for the city, but with the city. Only together can we truly tackle the challenges facing Kerkrade,” said Alexander Geers , Alderman .

The nominated aldermen will be appointed during the city council meeting on June 3.

View the full Kerkrade Municipality Coalition Agreement for 2026–2030 here.