The Municipality of Gouda: both better government and
€ 13 million in structural savings
Initial situation
A city with major ambitions, in search of greater spirit and dynamics. Many plans, too few of which have been achieved. Forty years with article 12 status, with a structural deficit of € 13 million. A municipal government that has the tendency to take control and solve its own problems, and therefore, has continually expanded.
The question
Support us in achieving a local government that is dynamic, credible and financially sound. A municipality that draws people, companies and institutions to the city and is interested in sharing responsibility. The focus is not on the government, but rather on what we want to achieve. Make Gouda a high-opportunity city for private initiatives again. Achieve this with a broad policy, administrative and social base, without grey compromises.
Our vision
Not another government, but a better government. Give high priority to the desired social effect and ensure that it is a municipality that only performs its own tasks if this has distinctive added value: “as light as possible, as heavy as necessary”. No ‘sale’, but a tailor-made approach. Work from the outside in: the design of a municipal organization is a final element rather than a base for new decisions. For radical proposals, consult independent external parties. Although the organization is technically involved with the process, this does not interfere with Cordes’ ultimate responsibility. (What are we trying to say here?)
Our approach
First, create a benchmark: What type of government would we like to become? Meet with the administrative organization, the Municipal Executive and Board. Result: a single underlying assumption, confirmed by the Municipal Executive and Board and immediately followed by a screening of policy tasks. Use official working groups as think tank and sounding board. Cordes contributes its own vision. Organize work conferences with the administrative top, the Staff Council and the Municipal Executive. Consequently with the municipal council. No ratings, but development-oriented: Gouda has control of the municipality. Be creative with do-it-yourself scenarios: not only contract out, but divest, cooperate with other municipalities, share responsibility with neighbourhood organisations, corporations, etc. The staff/line organisation and efficiency are based on the above. Implementation plan.
