The municipality of Zoetermeer is expanding its services for residents and business owners. As of now, 3 new features are available: video calling, teletelling and a bilingual website.

'I find it extremely important that everyone has easy access to the right information,' said responsible Alderman Marijke van der Meer. 'The 3 new features improve communication with our residents and business owners, allowing more people to use municipal services.'

Video calling

When it is not possible to speak to someone in person at the town hall, video calling now offers an excellent alternative. In some situations, video calling is preferable to a face-to-face meeting, for example when a resident is less mobile, afraid to leave the house or ill. The technology is easy to use, so that even residents who are less digitally proficient can use it. The resident does not need to install any special software on their phone/computer.

For now, video calls are made only at the initiative of the Public Square or Social Domain employee. The employee sends a request for video calling, including a link to a resident, via email. In the second half of 2024, it will become possible for the resident himself to make a video appointment through the municipal appointment system on the website.

Interpreter

But it doesn't stop there. For example, residents with a hearing impairment can use a teletector. On the website, on the Contact Us page, there is a button that allows the resident to call the interpreter themselves (initiative lies with the resident).

This service contributes to the independence and self-reliance of this target group.

Zoetermeer website now bilingual

'From now on, the website of the municipality of Zoetermeer will be bilingual. The number of residents who speak English is growing. Many international entrepreneurs, students and expats have now found their home in Zoetermeer,' explained Alderman Van der Meer. The bilingual website is the result of a previously adopted council motion. At the top of the municipal website's home page is the language option: English. With one click, users can read all texts on the website in English. Information about products and services is now easy to find for EU citizens and entrepreneurs.

Zoetermeer.nl is now available in English

Starting today, our English-speaking residents and students can easily access the content in English by clicking on 'English' at the top of the homepage.