This week we head to Montigny-le-Tilleul, a few kilometres from Charleroi, to meet mayor Marie Hélène Knoops.
Mayor for nearly 9 years, she will be a supporting candidate in the regional elections.
Marie Hélène, you've been mayor for almost 9 years… If you had to pick one flagship action, what would it be?
Regarding the matters that fall under my responsibility, I immediately think of the creation of our Facebook page in December 2019. A valuable communication tool when, three months later, the Covid-19 crisis began. This new channel allowed us to share information as soon as the consultation committees ended. This immediacy of information helped us reassure our residents quickly, who were often worried and sometimes unsure about the newly decided measures.
Later, on a lighter note, we created our Instagram account to reach a different audience with stories and photos of the idyllic landscapes our municipality has to offer.
What is the liberal hallmark of Montigny-le-Tilleul, the municipality neighbouring Charleroi?
Montigny-le-Tilleul has been a liberal municipality since 1830. Our elected representatives are particularly accessible and attentive to their 10,200 residents. We also care deeply about current issues such as ecology and animal welfare. We have developed, notably through the creation of a municipal Écoteam, numerous ecological and environmental actions. Our now-traditional ecology fair “Aux gestes citoyens” will take place on 20 April from 10am to 4pm at the Foyer culturel of Montigny-le-Tilleul.
Mayors were confronted with the Covid health crisis. What lessons do you take from it?
There are many, but I would say: nothing is ever guaranteed. Local authorities must deal with all kinds of unforeseen situations and be able to roll out new actions, sometimes urgently.
Team cohesion and communication allowed us to face this crisis in the best possible conditions. Everyone did their part.
You are a candidate in the regional elections in support of Adrien Dolimont. How are you approaching this new electoral milestone?
As you note, this is a supporting candidacy. My priority remains the municipality of Montigny-le-Tilleul; my presence on this list reflects my full commitment to the Charleroi Thuin region and to my party.
And to finish, a small tourist question: if you had to make us want to visit Montigny-le-Tilleul, what would you recommend?
I would recommend starting your visit with Landelies, voted one of the most beautiful villages in Wallonia in 2020. With its marina, towpath and nature reserve, you should find something to enjoy there. Then head to Montigny-le-Tilleul, where there is no shortage of dining options. End your visit at the town hall, whose architecture and landscape integration have been award-winning. To accompany you, two original audio guides (one dedicated to Landelies and the other to Montigny-le-Tilleul) are available free of charge on the izi.travel app - I highly recommend them!