Sint-Truiden (The Brussels Motning Newspaper): Vooruit is concerned about the lack of transparency regarding the use of a skybox rented by Sint-Truiden’s city government for 180,000 euros. They question its accessibility and alignment with community interests noting that city officials have used it privately without clear justification for public funds spent.
Vooruit has stepped in multiple times during city council meetings with concerns about the skybox that the city government of Sint-Truiden plans to rent. The party believes that the city government is not being clear enough about how they intend to use that skybox. Gert Stas from Vooruit said: “The city government gets that skybox and can use it six times per season. It was paid for with 180,000 euros of public money, and we want to know more about it.” The party wants to know how the skybox is used who can access it and if this use aligns with the community’s interests. Vooruit insists on the city government being more transparent and accountable regarding this expense and the skybox’s usage.
Why is Vooruit concerned about the lack of transparency regarding Sint-Truiden’s skybox usage?
The party is disappointed that there is no evidence provided on how and by whom the skybox in the football stadium of Sint-Truiden is currently being used. Gert Stas from Vooruit stated: “The city government has indicated that they want to use the box thematically and may make it available to new companies or social projects from the city. But there is no information available about this.” Vooruit is worried because they don’t know who is using the skybox and if it matches the plans to offer it to startups and social projects. Despite the promises of the city government Vooruit says there is no proof that these initiatives are happening. This makes it unclear how the 180,000 euros of public money is being justified and if the skybox is actually helping achieve its intended goals.
Is the use of Sint-Truiden’s skybox by city officials justifiable, and what benefits do citizens gain?
Vooruit says that the mayor and some aldermen have already used the box. “They invited people casually and on their own with dinner and drinks. We need to know what the citizens gain from this.” Mayor Ingrid Kempeneers explains that STV is a significant export product for us which benefits city marketing. For instance the jerseys also display the city’s name. Therefore the funds we allocate to the club are not solely for the skybox.They contribute to various aspects like promoting the city through STV.
Mayor Ingrid Kempeneers (CD&V) is upset about the opposition party’s complaint. She explains “The 180,000 euros Vooruit mentioned is not for renting a skybox but for a sponsorship deal.” The mayor adds “We also support other clubs in Sint-Truiden with many young players, like in Velm, Zepperen, and Brustem.” STVV is crucial for the city council. Mayor Kempeneers emphasizes “STVV is vital for city marketing with the city’s name on the shirts. The money we give to the club isn’t just for the skybox it’s for promoting the city through STVV. The claim that it’s only for the skybox is absurd and untrue. And just to clarify those boxes are often empty.”
