Everyone has the right to information from the government. As a government organization, we must provide that information ourselves, or if someone requests it. This is regulated in the Open Government Act (Woo).
Much government information is already publicly available. You can view this information online at Overheid.nl and on our website. For information that isn't available online, you can submit a request for disclosure. This is called an information request. If this information is not solely for your own use, it's called a Woo request.
Difference between information request and Woo request
The difference between an information request and a Woo request is the purpose of the request. If you want to request information for your own use, it's best to submit an information request. If you want to request public information, it's best to submit a Woo request.
When you request information, you ask:
- Data or documents for your own use, such as those you need for an objection or complaint. This may also include a personal file.
- General information (intelligence) such as in a press inquiry or a letter from the citizen.
- Different procedures apply to objections or complaints. Click here for more information.
In a Woo request you ask:
- Information about an administrative matter. This means a matter for which the municipal council, the mayor and aldermen, or municipal officials are responsible.
- Information, documents and data that we have in our possession.
- Information that we have not previously made public.
How does it work?
You can submit an information request or a Woo request to Waardlanden regarding: household waste and raw material collection, street cleaning, waste management regulations enforcement, and waste education. Waardlanden also provides weed control in the municipality of Hardinxveld-Giessendam, road gritting, fleet maintenance, and trash bin emptying for the municipality of Gorinchem. You can also submit an information request or a Woo request regarding these matters.
Your request must include:
- That it concerns an information request or Woo request
- About which (administrative) topic you would like to receive information and about which period
- How you would like to receive this (for example by email or by post)
- Your contact details including your telephone number for additional questions
Please address your request to:
E-mail
info@waardlanden.nl
PostWaardlanden
to Information Contact Person
Postbus 555
4200 AN Gorinchem
How long does it take?
Once we receive your Woo request, you will receive confirmation. If we have any further questions, the practitioner will contact you. We will make a decision within four weeks of receiving your Woo request. If necessary, this period can be extended by another two weeks. You will be notified of this.
If we approve your Woo request, we will send you the information. Sometimes there's a reason to not send the requested information, or to send only part of it. For example, if it contains personal data or another reason for refusal applies.
If other parties are expected to be involved in the Woo request, different deadlines apply. We must then request their input. You will be notified of this.
Good to Know
There's no charge to submit an information request or Woo request. However, you may be charged for making copies and sending information by mail.
Questions?
If you have any questions about the Open Government Act, please contact our information contact person. Send an email to info@waardlanden.nl or phone 0183 68 11 11.