Ineke Schaddelee has been working as an alderman in Zeewolde for three weeks. The 43-year-old, who previously worked at the General Court and accounting firm PwC and briefly served as an alderman in Gouda, said she wanted to base decisions on concrete and measurable data.

Aldermen in Zeewolde are required to live in the municipality, but Schaddelee has received a one-year exemption while she looks for a home. She is currently staying at different addresses, including a holiday park and a bed-and-breakfast. Dozens of residents have questioned her appointment on Facebook, including because they believe she has no connection with the municipality. Schaddelee said she hoped to get to know Zeewolde and overcome the resistance, while acknowledging that an alderman cannot satisfy everyone.