P. (Peter) Francot

“From civil servant to council member and now Alderman.” 

Alderman Peter Francot

For Peter Francot (Ronduit Open), the municipality of Leudal holds few secrets. A native of Baexem, he worked there as a civil servant, served on the municipal council, and, as of June 9 of this year, has held the title of “ Alderman ” of Leudal. He views his personal connection to and knowledge of the municipality where he was born and raised as an asset in his new role. Alderman Over the next four years, Peter Francot will focus on issues such as village development, housing, traffic and transportation, and water management.

Although he is familiar with the inner workings of the municipality, Peter Francot has noticed that, as a member of the Municipal Executive, you view matters from a different perspective than you do as a civil servant or council member. Francot: 

“The role of Alderman is new to me. In this position as a member of the executive committee, you really do look at issues from a different perspective and with different responsibilities. Of course, I was aware of that, but now I’ve actually experienced it firsthand, and I don’t regret my decision to take on this new role—absolutely not,” he asserts firmly. “I’m really enjoying it!”

Francot is very pleased with the collaboration within the council during the first 100 days. 

We’re getting to know each other better and better, giving each other the freedom we need, and helping each other whenever we can. We get along well, and as a faculty, we’re a team.

Housing construction improves the quality of life

Housing is one of the focus areas of the new Alderman: 

"There needs to be significant construction in Leudal because there is a housing shortage," says Francot. In addition, this contributes to the quality of life in the town centers. Building according to demand will be a challenge. Can we, as a municipality, achieve what we want? Grid congestion, nitrogen-related issues, spraying zones, odor contours, and the number of homes the province has authorized us to build are factors that could thwart our plans. Hopefully, we’ll be given the time and leeway to carry out what’s necessary, and in particular, the problem of grid congestion will be resolved quickly and effectively. The challenges are significant, which is why we’ll be working hard on them in the coming period.

A train station in Leudal?

The coalition agreement signed by Ronduit Open and Samen Verder calls for attention to be given to a train station in our municipality. What can we expect from Alderman Francot in this regard? 

“We’re going to restart our lobbying efforts to make the station a reality. An additional station between Roermond and Weert would certainly be an asset to the entire region,” said Alderman Peter Francot, who looks back with satisfaction on his first 100 days as mayor of Leudal ( Alderman ).