Tick prevention and treatment, foxtails in pets, flooding and stormwater management, local works and community notices.

Summary

This episode opens with a health and safety talk from veterinary honoraire Marc Simons about ticks and burrs, with practical advice for protecting pets and humans during the summer. The second half shifts to a community update on recent flooding, drainage capacity, climate-related weather extremes, and ongoing local infrastructure works.

Timestamps

0:07 Welcome to the weekly community session and introduction of the evening’s topics.

3:18 Marc begins the presentation: what ticks are and why they are dangerous.

3:58 Diseases transmitted by ticks: Lyme disease and ehrlichiosis.

13:01 Prevention advice: anti-tick products and body checks after walks.

17:06 Transition to burrs / epillets and what they are.

25:34 Update on cleanup in flood-affected areas.

38:38 Mention of the Octopus center as a possible cooling location.

45:17 Explanation of the emergency number 1722 for storms and flooding.

50:30 Why local solutions alone cannot solve the problem without cooperation with Brussels.

53:11 Household rainwater retention as part of the solution.

56:24 Smart and delayed-drainage cisterns as future prevention tools.

58:56 Importance of regional cooperation and storage upstream.

61:30 Road works update: asphalting and the next phases of local infrastructure projects.

62:21 Cycling path project along Chaussée de Malines, expected to start in early August.

64:39 Water supply notices and how residents can receive alerts.

66:11 Update on another near-finished local project and site access.

68:52 Mention of the documentary Second Wind and a tribute to Ukrainian resilience. How can Kraainem contribute to help?

71:23 Airport-related noise consultation and future discussion process.

72:59 Local noise rules for garden machines and robot mowers.

75:43 Reminder about emergency numbers 1722 and 1733.

77:06 Deadline reminder for associations to update culture, sport, and leisure data.

77:34 Summer closure and reopening dates for the Maison de l’Enfant and Café Bébé.

79:16 Upcoming local outing and community events.

80:15 Music and festival announcements for 21 July.

81:20 Maison de l’Enfant’s 5th anniversary celebration on 2 September.

81:49 Heatwave advice: hydration, shade, sunscreen, and keeping homes cool.

86:20 Farewell and summer wishes for local schoolchildren.

88:39 Final thanks and closing remarks.

Key takeaways

• Ticks can transmit Lyme disease and ehrlichiosis, so early removal matters.
• Burrs can be just as problematic for pets, especially around eyes, ears, paws, and sensitive openings.
• The flooding discussion emphasized that extreme rainfall overwhelmed the main collector, and prevention depends on retention, cooperation, and upstream storage.
• Residents were reminded about emergency numbers, water alerts, and practical summer precautions.

In this weekly session, Bertrand and Vinciane review the commune’s current projects, with a detailed focus on the financial aspects of the Tax Shift and what it means for residents. The conversation explains how local taxation is evolving in a broader international and national context, and how those changes affect both the commune and individual citizens.

Key topics covered:

• Ongoing municipal projects, including mobility, public works, and local events
• The Tax Shift in detail: higher additional municipal centimes on property tax, lower municipal personal income tax, and the impact on the communal budget
• The effect of the Tax Shift on the commune’s finances and on residents, with technical explanations and financial projections
• The international, regional, and demographic context behind the fiscal rebalancing
• Individual impact for homeowners and tenants, including calculations and estimated increases or decreases depending on each situation
• Comparisons with other municipalities such as Wezembeek-Oppem, Brussels / Woluwe-St-Pierre and Woluwe-St-Lambert
• Measures to soften the impact for pensioners?
• Initiatives to reduce flood risks during severe weather
• Public works, mobility updates, and safety guidance during extreme weather
• Solidarity initiatives related to Ukraine, including material support coordinated through the fire zone and cooperation with Chernihiv

Chapters:

00:00 — Introduction to the weekly session
01:31 — Presentation of the Tax Shift in Kraïnem
02:56 — Impact of the Tax Shift on communal finances
10:20 — Economic context and why the Tax Shift was needed
14:11 — Individual consequences of the Tax Shift
30:49 — Analysis of the impact on citizens
34:57 — Conclusion and future outlook
40:50 — Thanks and audience questions
42:06 — Possibility of dividing larger homes
44:03 — Fiscal fairness and local taxes
45:54 — Municipal council updates and local projects
48:58 — Weather alerts and safety advice
52:04 — Flood risk management
56:13 — Use of rainwater tanks
01:00:07 — Infrastructure and mobility projects
01:02:59 — Support for Ukraine and material collection
01:07:59 — Local events and community activities

Sound bites:

• “The Tax Shift guarantees more stable revenues over the long term.”
• “Communal finances are influenced by the international and national context.”
• “Each citizen must do the calculation to understand the personal impact.”

Guest:

Vinciane Cardinael

Resources:

• Vinciane Cardinael — LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinciane-cardinael
• Official Kraainem website: https://www.kraainem.be
• Tax simulation — Tax Web: https://taxweb.kraainem.be

What does managing animal nuisances involve and what are the challenges?

Introduction to Asian hornets, their impact on bees, and the need for professional intervention

Signs of poisoning or danger in dogs and other animals

Tips to prevent rat proliferation through prevention and innovative projects without chemicals

The role of foxes in regulating rat populations and their recent decline

Effects, bites, and symptoms of the tiger mosquito, including the risk of tropical diseases and effective prevention measures

What are the community initiatives to tackle flooding and urban planning?

Real-time water level monitoring and automated tracking systems

Infrastructure projects to reduce flood risk, including the buffer capacity installed at the Jourdain lake to limit the risks of flooding in North Kraainem

Implementation of paving and redevelopment work in several neighborhoods, with a focus on communication with residents

Coordination with emergency services and use of a shared platform to identify and treat hornet nests

Importance of collaboration between the community, firefighters, and specialized responders

Upcoming actions and scheduled events

Upcoming sessions dedicated to ticks, foxtails [or grass awns: barbed bristles], and other nuisances, with expert Dr. Marc Simons

Cultural gatherings and open days at historical sites

Solidarity initiatives with Ukraine and humanitarian support projects

Educational programs on architecture, home safety, and urban ecology

Useful resources and contacts

Vespa alerte to report hornet nests

Animal nuisance management techniques (book)

Flood reporting sites

Minder Hinder app (APK) to track urban works

Connect with our speakers

Dr. Marc Simons - LinkedIn | Twitter

Bertrand Waucquez, Mayor - LinkedIn | Official Site

Key Timestamps

(00:07) - Introduction and context of animal nuisances and flood risks

(01:02) - Impact of high temperatures on flood risks

(02:17) - Real-time sites to monitor the local situation

(03:25) - Emergency numbers and procedure in case of damage

(08:56) - Description of animal nuisances: hornets, rats, tiger mosquitoes

(14:00) - How rodenticides work and precautions for animals

(18:56) - Environmental impact and management without chemicals

(25:14) - Presentation of the tiger mosquito, its risks, and prevention

(30:38) - Asian hornet: prevention strategy and intervention

(38:00) - Urban projects, monitoring, and communication

(49:34) - Solidarity with Ukraine and international initiatives

(58:52) - Cultural events and community activities

The content provides a precise overview of local efforts against animal nuisances, natural risks, and ongoing social and urban projects.

Primary goal: Education and transparency on municipal finances and local projects

Main topics:

Municipal financial management, specifically tax shift impacts

Local infrastructure projects and community events

Length: Approx. 55 minutes of transcript audio, varied timestamps

Understanding the Municipal Tax Shift and Local Initiatives

In this episode, we explore the recent municipal financial strategies, focusing on the tax shift decision in Kraainem and its implications for citizens and the community. Plus, updates on ongoing infrastructure projects and upcoming events.

Key Topics

Explanation of the tax shift: from 598 to 695 centimes additionnels and reduction of IPP from 7.5% to 7%

How the tax shift impacts local revenues and individual taxpayers

The context behind the tax reform: international conflicts, national challenges, and local demographic shifts

Calculations and examples of property tax assessments, including the mechanism of revenu cadastral and impact on property owners

Community infrastructure projects, like road asphaltages and utility upgrades

Upcoming community events, charity activities, and cultural initiatives

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and overview of the session's focus on municipal finances

02:00 - Introduction of Vinciane Cardinael and explanation of the tax shift

03:45 - The effects of the tax shift on revenue, property taxes, and individual impacts

09:18 - The rationale behind tax rebalancing and the need for long-term fiscal stability

15:02 - International, national, and local contexts driving the tax shift decision

20:00 - Impact assessment for residents, including calculations and individual implications

24:34 - Explanation of property valuation mechanism: revenu cadastral and indexation

29:00 - Effect of indexation and tax shift on property owners' taxes

33:11 - Impact variability based on property type and individual circumstances

37:44 - Long-term objectives: financial stability, reducing dependency on federal decisions, demographic shifts

39:49 - Summary of the overall impact on the community and citizens

41:11 - Q&A session and upcoming engagement opportunities

52:00 - Community initiatives, upcoming cultural and charity events

55:15 - Closing remarks and future sessions

Resources & Links

Tax Shift Details and Municipal Financial Reports

Revenu Cadastral Mechanism

Community Projects Info

Upcoming Events Calendar

Charity Event: Rotary Aid Ukraine

Connect with Vinciane Cardinael

LinkedIn

Twitter

This episode provides a comprehensive understanding of how local tax policies aim for long-term fiscal stability amidst external and internal challenges, alongside community enhancements and events.

Join us as we delve into the latest initiatives impacting Kraainem, from infrastructure upgrades to community activities, and learn how these efforts aim to improve daily life in our town.

Main insights:

• Overview of projects related to local infrastructure like the tunnel renovations and road works scheduled for May 2026, impacting traffic and commuting.
• Updates on environmental management efforts, notably the identification and control of the Asian hornet and European hornet, with safety tips for recognition.
• Community engagement activities including public safety sessions, cultural events, and assistance initiatives for Ukraine aid contributions.
• Discussions on urban development projects including social housing reconstruction on Amédée-Bracque street and the future of the school and communal facilities.
• Emergency response: Appreciation of police and fire services, safety protocols for water outages, and fire prevention tips.
• Special attention to upcoming traffic disruptions during major weekends and the importance of planning with official websites like wegenenverkeer.be.
• Encouragement for civic participation: Environmental permits, community consultations, and support for local aid projects.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and overview of the week's community projects
00:20 - Traffic plans and roadwork updates for May 2026
01:00 - Safety tips for identifying Asian vs European hornets
02:00 - How to recognize and manage hornets with Facebook Live resources
02:50 - Upcoming community cleanup and hornet monitoring groups
03:20 - Infrastructure projects: reconstruction of social housing on Amédée-Brac
04:00 - Community activity updates: safety sessions, cultural events, and aid for Ukraine
05:00 - Emergency services appreciation and water outage protocols
06:00 - Major traffic disruptions during upcoming holiday weekends: routes and planning tips
07:00 - Future renovations: school buildings and municipal facades
08:00 - Development of urban facilities: BOA project for kids' activities
09:00 - Community participation: environmental permits and collective action
10:00 - Final messages and community gratitude

Note:

All updates are intended to inform residents about ongoing projects and promote community safety and participation.

Main topics:

• Recognition and control of the Asian hornet
• Sewer works, road redevelopment, and modernization of roadways
• Public safety, nuisance management, and aircraft fleet management to reduce noise
• Urban projects: avenue renovations, bike paths, and waste management
• Support for humanitarian initiatives in Ukraine
• Consultation on aircraft noise management and planning future measures
• Community engagement: events, training, and meetings with citizens

In this session:

• Identification of the Asian hornet: recognizing the difference from the European hornet [02:02]
• Details on sewer works and their impact [04:16]
• Planning of road renovations for 2026 [09:13]
• Highlighting the importance of communication during works and incidents [52:46]
• Presentation of measures to limit aircraft noise and manage nuisances [44:01]
• Humanitarian support actions for Ukraine, including vehicles and equipment [30:49]
• Fire safety and prevention advice [59:43]
• Importance of social media and official communication in emergencies [52:46]

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and overview of community projects
02:02 - Recognition of the Asian hornet and hornet traps
04:16 - Sewer works and impact on the Verger neighborhood
09:13 - Avenue renovation planning before summer 2026
44:01 - Strategies to limit aircraft noise in the regional context
52:46 - Tips for effective emergency response on social media
59:43 - Fire prevention advice and management of domestic fire risks
52:46 - Importance of official communication for emergency situations

• Analysis of available reserves: +4 million euros compared to initial forecasts
• Prudent management of safety margins in the budget
• Projection for 2026 and beyond, with significant self-financing margins

Debt and Loan Management

• Planned vs. actual loans: a strategy of systematic reduction
• Gradual repayment of old debts, especially those contracted in 2006-2007
• Strict limitation of new loans to preserve financial stability

Main Projects and Investments

• Infrastructure improvements: roads, sewers, bike paths, and ongoing works
• Community initiatives: support for international projects like Kotsubinski
• Intercommunal collaboration: sharing commissions and joint projects (e.g., land development)

Future Questions and Challenges

• The end of police councils scheduled for July 2026
• Management of air nuisances and its impact on the municipality
• Awareness programs on environment and biodiversity: Asian hornets, tiger mosquitoes, rats

Upcoming Events and Activities

• Cultural weekend and festivities (concerts, neighborhood parties)
• Local initiatives: Repères Café, excursions, artistic workshops (cyanotype)
• Community engagement: open days, July 21st celebration, activities for young people

Resources and Useful Links

• Facebook Live - Financial Presentation and Projects
• Construction, Roads, and Works Project - Official Site
• Management of Air Nuisances and Noise - Regional Site
• Cultural Activities and Local Events

Connect with Bertrand for more information or to participate in future projects.

• Key differences between Asian and European hornets: identification and traps
• Methods to combat hornets: DIY traps with practical advice
• Impact of declining fox populations on rat proliferation: causes and possible solutions
• Approaches to limit attractive food for rats and reduce their presence through responsible management
• Importance of community actions and interactive tools like the Minderhinder app to report nuisances
• Ongoing public works: road redevelopment, pumping station, and waste management
• Measures to combat the proliferation of the tiger mosquito and prevent vector-borne diseases
• Environmental initiatives: rainwater management, flood prevention, and urban renovation projects

Timestamps

00:00 - Introduction to community projects and environmental management challenges
02:11 - Key differences between Asian and European hornets: identification and traps
03:39 - Trapping methods: recipes using white wine, beer, and grenadine
04:17 - Actions to limit hornet proliferation and the Vespa Hunter Facebook project
05:13 - Rat resurgence: causes linked to declining fox populations and construction work
07:26 - Impact of toxins on the food chain of foxes and rats
08:53 - Role of human activities in the displacement of nuisance animals
09:39 - Concrete measures to limit accessible food and community control
14:15 - Limiting food for rats and reducing their installation environment
15:44 - Risks related to rat poison consumption and impacts on local wildlife
16:42 - Waste management advice, including composting and food limitation
18:24 - Actions to avoid attracting rodents in public and private spaces
22:54 - Intervention on constructions and landfill management to prevent rat nests
25:34 - Active citizenship in combating proliferation (simple and effective actions)
30:47 - Risks and measures against the tiger mosquito: recognition, prevention, and monitoring
32:48 - Public works: road rehabilitation, earthworks, and rainwater management
34:50 - Implementation of pumping stations for flood prevention
43:50 - Importance of responsible waste and drainage water management
52:02 - Measures to support the population in nuisance management and effective communication
56:33 - Call for citizen contribution: crowdfunding for humanitarian aid in Ukraine
57:40 - Compliance with pet management rules and nuisance prevention
58:38 - Noise management and steps for a more sustainable sound environment
60:28 - Strategies to limit aerial nuisances and current regulations
63:20 - Reporting responsibilities: contacts and best practices in emergencies
66:07 - Importance of recording data for prevention and emergency management
68:42 - Mosquito protection: anti-odor tips and individual measures
70:25 - Use and deployment of the badge system for access and control management
72:14 - Upcoming events: festivals, sports activities, information sessions, and family activities
75:25 - Planned cultural initiatives and community events to strengthen local cohesion

• Highlights from the recent open house at the fire station in Nossegem, showcasing equipment and rescue operations.
• Explanation of complex rescue systems involving cables and high-lift ladders.
• Discussion on the importance of fire safety training, including first aid and emergency response techniques.
• Updates on ongoing municipal projects: roadworks, water and electricity infrastructure upgrades, and urban development.
• Introduction of digital tools like the Minderhinder app for tracking municipal works and notifying residents.
• Overview of upcoming community activities: repair cafés, cultural events, youth programs, and workshops.
• Recognition of community volunteers and emergency services personnel for their dedication and risks taken.
• Information on regional cooperation initiatives including water management and infrastructure modernization.
• Invitation to participate in local initiatives: planting days, environmental surveillance, and cultural celebrations.
• Reminders about participation in public consultations and how to stay updated via official online platforms.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome and overview of recent fire department open house in Nossegem
02:17 - Demonstration of rescue cables and high-altitude operations
04:01 - Explanation of emergency rescue procedures and safety measures
05:51 - Importance of first aid training for youth and community members
06:57 - Handling toxics and smoke in fire rescue situations, including battery fires
08:02 - Community safety initiatives and the role of firefighters
09:49 - Recognition of emergency personnel’s dedication and risk-taking
11:14 - Municipal financial overview and budget updates for 2025
12:22 - Upcoming financial planning sessions and transparency efforts
13:03 - Community participation and special events countdown
14:14 - Monitoring and controlling mosquito populations with traps
15:40 - Regional projects for infrastructure upgrades and environmental surveillance
16:40 - Water management updates and preventive measures via Watergroup
18:02 - Roadwork updates: street repairs and infrastructure improvements
19:24 - Future plans for asphalt and street safety enhancements
20:15 - Urban development projects along Maline and surrounding areas
21:02 - Critical electrical grid upgrades for increased capacity
22:36 - Community communication tools: Minderhinder app and updates
24:29 - Ongoing sewer and water infrastructure projects and their community impact
25:16 - Appreciation for project coordinators and communication teams
27:08 - Finalization of historic building renovations and urban beautification
28:03 - Recent challenges and upcoming milestones in municipal maintenance
30:02 - Balancing operational nuisances and long-term community support
31:01 - Encouraging residents to register with Watergroup for alerts
32:08 - Regional cooperation and local government coordination efforts
33:14 - Upcoming cultural and community activity calendar
34:06 - Repair cafés and second-hand markets for sustainable practices
35:21 - Youth programs: yoga, creative activities, and educational workshops
36:22 - Local excursions and historical site visits planned for summer
37:25 - Community fundraising events and Ukrainian children support efforts
38:44 - Cultural performances and charity concerts scheduled soon
39:49 - Creative workshops: cyanotype photography and digital skills training
40:31 - Digital engagement through workshop series on AI and technology
41:23 - Excursions to Domaine Solvay and the July 21 national celebration
43:07 - Environmental monitoring: animal sounds and waste management initiatives
44:07 - Closing remarks, appreciation, and social media engagement prompts

Takeaways

• Approval of accounts and financial reserves
• Evolution of debts and margin of self-financing
• Abolition of the police council and rat control
• Composition of the Gekoro commission and special aid for Ukraine
• Code of ethics approved by the communal council Community involvement is crucial
• Proactive measures for pest control and environmental protection

Chapters

• 00:00 Approval of Accounts and Financial Reserves
• 08:07 Abolition of the Police Council and Rat Control
• 13:33 Composition of the Gekoro Commission and Special Aid for Ukraine
• 20:23 Code of Ethics Approved by the Communal Council
• 36:09 Pest Control and Environmental Protection
• 44:42 Community Initiatives and Local Events
• 53:06 Airport Noise Reduction and Environmental Impact
• 01:01:19 Social Media Communication and Public Safety
• 01:06:27 Upcoming Local Events and Community Engagement

Takeaways

• Statistiques positives sur les accidents, vols et infractions en 2025
• Hommage à l'ancien bourgmestre et aux victimes d'incendie et d'accident
• Retrait du règlement pour les sans domicile et subventions pour les associations
• Projet de piste cyclable le long du ring et mesures de sécurité
• Débats sur la transparence et la commission de mobilité

Chapters

• 00:00 Débats sur la Mobilité et la Transparence