International local government news 22.10.24

Here are the latest newsworthy and interesting stories from the local government sector that caught our attention. In this round-up of what’s happening right now in the world of local government, you’ll find best practices, inspiration, and more from across the sector.

THE NETHERLANDS: Dutch municipality to build 8,000 homes below sea level
In Zuidplas, the Netherlands, the local council is going ahead with plans to construct a new village of 8,000 homes 4.45 metres below sea level. Situated in the lowest part of the country, Zuidplas (meaning “southern pond”) is well below NAP, or the normal water level in Amsterdam, which is used by the Dutch when describing water or land level. Work is expected to begin on the project in 2026. However, it is facing backlash from residents and the local water board, who have taken it to the country’s highest administrative court on the grounds of it not offering “good and safe water management” amid climate change and increased flooding.
Dutch News

BELGIUM: First Belgian with Down syndrome voted into office will serve as councillor
Belgium has elected its first citizen with Down syndrome. Nicolas Vanwinsen, aged 33, has become the first elected official in the country with Down syndrome, having won in local elections in Heist-op-den-Berg after a campaign where he called for electoral inequality between people with and without disabilities. Standing for the CD&V Party, the largest in the municipality, Mr Vanwinsen will be assisted initially by party vice-president Kristel Van Craen.
VrtNws

CZECHIA: Prague cracks down on organised pub crawls
In a bid to cut down on nighttime noise from revellers and tourists, local authorities in Prague have banned pub crawls. The city council has moved to ensure that between 10pm and 6am, guides cannot lead people from bar to bar. The city’s motion reads the “unreasonable consumption of alcohol and disruptive behavior associated with pub crawls can create the impression of a lack of culture in the community, reduce the feeling of safety and … can have a negative impact on the perception of the municipality by tourists, potential investors and the citizens themselves”. Residents of central Prague have reportedly long complained about safety and noise concerns stemming from pub crawls.
Politico

USA: Baltimore sets out to bridge digital divide
The City of Baltimore has announced further funding to close the digital divide among local residents. In the second round of grant awards under its Digital Equity Fund, the city will provide local organisations with funding to help ensure every resident has access to the resources and tools required in the digital age. Specifically, this round of funding sets out to improve digital literacy education, advance digital skills and IT training, and support digital creatives.
Smart Cities World

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