INTERVIEW
By means of: Olaf Knook
Thu Mar 28, 2:57 pm
General
THOLEN – After an unexpected turn in the coalition, Hilde Moerland (52) is suddenly the new councilor of Tholen. She still finds it a bit exciting. But the driven Stallander will not shy away from anything or anyone. “I believe that everyone at Tholen, small or large, matters. That’s what I stand for.”
Born in Brabant, but her heart lies in Sint-Annaland. Hilde Moerland (52) is not just any Zeelander. Her CV does not have a long political background. In just two years she has managed to make her mark on Thool politics. “Frank Hommel approached me before the 2022 elections. But I had no political ambitions, so I was not open to it at first. I was determined to make things around me more beautiful.”
Finally she agreed. She was immediately elected as a councilor by the voters. And now, after two years, she has secured her own workspace in the town hall. She now holds the same position as the same Hommel who resigned as alderman after almost 14 years.
Exciting challenge
The situation still feels awkward for Moerland. “That takes time. But I am very happy with all the positive reactions I have received. It really is a great honor.” She realizes that it is a challenge to take over the position of a departed councilor. “The mayor and aldermen have drawn up a multi-year plan and suddenly a newcomer joins us. That brings exciting times. It’s like getting on a moving train. It certainly took some sleepless nights for me.”
Diversity and inclusion
Moerland will have a challenging portfolio with economic and social aspects and components from the social domain. She will also receive the brand new diversity and inclusion portfolio. As a councilor she has advocated for this. “At Tholen everyone should have the freedom to be themselves. For me, that is part of participation. We must pay attention to all citizens.” As a new councilor, she feels obliged to play a role in this. “I was elected to the council to serve our residents. That is why I think it is important to be there for everyone, including entrepreneurs.”
Pippi Longstocking
Moerland does not yet have concrete plans for the island. “I am now being updated on the content. There is a vision, but it is still too early to say how I will realize it.” Finally, she points to a card in her office with Pippi Longstocking’s famous quote: “I’ve never done it before, so I guess I can.” Moerland is no Pippi Longstocking, but is attracted to that life saying. “The position will be a challenge, but the confidence I receive from those around me makes me think I can do it.”
