Help shape the future of water

As a board member of Noorderzijlvest Water Authority , you’ll help develop solutions to the water challenges of today and tomorrow. Wondering if this role is right for you? Find out how you can prepare for the 2027 water board elections.

What does a board member do?

The board of Noorderzijlvest Water Authority consists of an executive committee and a general assembly ( Board of Directors).

Members of the general assembly ( Board of Directors ) determine the broad outlines of policy, adopt plans and budgets, and oversee the executive committee.

Members of the executive committee are responsible for the day-to-day management of the association ( water authority ) and prepare and implement policies and decisions. 

Together, the board members make decisions on issues such as flood control, water supply, clean water, and wastewater treatment. They also represent the interests of residents, businesses, and organizations in the “ region.” You can find more information about the board here.

Board of Directors in the lobby of the Noorderzijlvest Water Board building

Who can become a board member?

You can apply if you: 

  • are 18 years of age or older; 
  • are a member of an existing political party participating in the region on Noorderzijlvest Water Authority; 
  • are eligible to vote; 
  • you live in the management area of Noorderzijlvest Water Authority or are willing to move there.

It doesn't matter what your education or background is. What's more important is your interest in water and your desire to contribute to the future of our region.

How does the nomination process work?

There are two ways to apply as a candidate: 

  1. Join an existing political party that is running in the elections. The party decides which candidates will be included on the candidate list. To do so, contact the party of your choice. 
  2. Start your own political party or run with your own slate.There are two ways to do this:
    Register the name of your slate by December 21, 2026, at the Central Election Commission at Noorderzijlvest Water Authority, Postbus 18, 9700 AA Groningen, or contact election project leader Ivette Schuitema at waterschapsverkiezingen@noorderzijlvest.nl 

    If you have not registered by December 21, 2026, you can still participate by submitting a blank list. In that case, only a number will appear above your list. On the day of candidate nomination, you must submit a list containing the names of the candidates. You can find more information about this on the page “Registering a Political Party for the Water Board Elections.” 

What does a board position entail?

Serving as a member of the “ Board of Directors ” requires commitment and responsibility.

As a board member: 

  • prepare for your meetings; 
  • read your proposals and documents; 
  • you’ll engage in dialogue with residents and organizations; 
  • make decisions regarding water, climate, and the environment; 
  • You represent the interests of residents in your community.

On average, this takes about three to four days a month.

Why Become a Board Member?

Because water affects everyone. The decisions made by the Water Board of the North Brabant River Basin District ( water authority ) concern the safety, quality of life, and future of our region. That is why it is important that diverse perspectives and experiences are represented on the board. 

Whether you’re a young professional, an entrepreneur, a farmer, a volunteer, a conservationist, or a concerned resident: your knowledge, experience, and ideas can help shape better decisions for the future. Governance begins with getting involved.

Frequently asked questions

How do I become a board member of the " water authority"?

The members of the Board of Directors are elected during the water board elections. You can run for office through an existing political party or register a new party. Read more about this on the page “Registering a Political Party for the Water Board Elections.”

How much time does it take?

Members of the Board of Directors spend an average of 3–4 days per month on meetings, preparation, and gatherings.

Will I receive compensation?

Yes. Board members receive compensation for their work. Currently, this amounts to €857.36 gross per month.

Can I run for office without being affiliated with a political party?

You can only run for office through a political party. The party decides which people will be included on the list of candidates.

Would you like to run in the elections? If so, please contact the political party of your choice. 

You can also join forces with others to form a new political party and run in the elections. You can find more information about this on the page “Registering a Political Party for the Water Board Elections.”

In addition, you can submit a blank candidate list without registering a party. 

For political parties

Political parties can participate in the elections for the National Water Board ( Board of Directors ) at Noorderzijlvest Water Authority. These parties are currently listed on the Board of Directors.

Would you like to know which regulations, procedures, and deadlines apply to registration and candidate nomination? Visit the page “Registering a Political Party for the Water Board Elections.”

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