Two long-serving Aalten councillors honored for 12 years of public service
After dedicating 12 years to local governance, Margret Rensink-Althof and Gerrit Assink have been awarded royal and municipal honors for their contributions to Aalten. Their work in youth welfare, elderly care, and sustainable energy leaves a lasting impact on the community.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Honorees | Margret Rensink-Althof, Gerrit Assink |
| Awards | Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau (Rensink-Althof), Aalten Honorary Medal (Assink) |
| Service Duration | 12 years (2014–2026) |
| Political Affiliation | GemeenteBelangen (Rensink-Althof), CDA (Assink) |
| Focus Areas | Youth, welfare, elderly care (Rensink-Althof); housing, environment (Assink) |
| Location | Aalten, Gelderland |
| Date of Award | 31 March 2026 |
The Aalten municipal council is responsible for local governance, including policy-making on welfare, housing, and environmental issues. Awards like these recognize long-term contributions of councillors who shape community priorities and advocate for residents' needs.
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Royal honours and Honorary Medal awarded to outgoing councillors Rensink-Althof and Assink
During the final council meeting of the current municipal council on Tuesday 31 March, Mayor Stapelkamp presented two special honours. Ms Margret Rensink-Althof received a royal distinction, while Mr Gerrit Assink was awarded the Aalten Municipal Honorary Medal. Both served as members of the Aalten municipal council for three consecutive terms, from March 2014 to March 2026. After twelve years of dedicated service, they have chosen not to stand for re-election and are now leaving their council roles.
Margret Rensink-Althof
Margret Rensink-Althof has served with great dedication as a councillor for the GemeenteBelangen party over the past twelve years. She was known for her integrity and enthusiasm in her work. Her particular focus was on issues that directly affect residents, such as youth, welfare, health and elderly care.
In recognition of her commitment and contributions, she received a royal distinction and has been appointed Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau.
Gerrit Assink
Gerrit Assink also served as a councillor for twelve years, representing the CDA party. His portfolio included housing construction and the environmental vision. Notably, he was one of the few councillors to successfully push through a proposal to facilitate small wind turbines.
Having previously received a royal distinction for his long-term service with the Aalten fire brigade, this time he was awarded the Aalten Municipal Honorary Medal. This distinction reflects the appreciation for his many years of involvement in the municipal council.