The national auditor criticizes the municipality of Tubbergen regarding complaints about the refugee hotel.
The national auditor concluded that the municipality of Tubbergen handled residents' complaints about the arrival of the asylum seekers' center (AZC) in a former hotel in Albergen improperly. Residents felt that their concerns were not taken into proper consideration.
The plans to establish a refugee center, outlined by the national government in 2022, have sparked unrest in the village. A fire was set at the site, and Mayor Anko Postma received threats following the announcement, raising concerns among local residents.
Several government entities participated in the project, including the municipality, the national government, the province, and COA (the Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers), leading to confusion among the population. Complaints submitted to the municipality were handled poorly, leaving citizens frustrated.
The municipality has sought the assistance of law firms to handle complaints, which has prevented residents from speaking directly with mayors or civil service employees. The process has also been significantly delayed, taking more than nine additional months beyond the specified fourteen-week period, and some complaints remain unresolved.
The national supervisor confirmed that municipalities should prioritize the feelings of residents and build public trust, rather than just adhering to procedures. Mayor Anko Postma acknowledged that the approach taken seemed distant, and promised to learn from this experience. The refugee center in Albergen was opened in September 2024 amid ongoing tensions.