Five long-serving Assen councillors awarded royal honours for dedication to local democracy
Five outgoing councillors in Assen were honored with royal distinctions for their decades of service to local democracy. The awards, presented by Mayor Marco Out, recognize their commitment to the community and public office.
| Name | Years as Councillor | Previous Roles |
|---|---|---|
| Luc Rengers | 24 years | - |
| Andre Dik | 14 years | - |
| Tjerk Medemblik | 12 years | Provincial Council |
| Bert Homan | 12 years | 8 years in Assen |
| Lia de Ruiter | 12 years | - |
| Event | Date | Award |
| Farewell Ceremony | 31 March 2026 | Order of Orange-Nassau |
The municipality of Assen, like other Dutch municipalities, is responsible for local governance, including the recognition of long-serving councillors. Royal honours, such as the Order of Orange-Nassau, are awarded by the Dutch monarchy on the recommendation of local authorities to individuals who have made significant contributions to society.
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Royal honours for councillors
At the farewell ceremony of the municipal council on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, five outgoing councillors received royal honours. All five were appointed as members of the Order of Orange-Nassau. Mayor Marco L.J. Out presented the awards from 19:00.
The following councillors received royal honours in recognition of their many years of service:
- Mr Luc Rengers (24 years as councillor)
- Mr Andre Dik (14 years as councillor)
- Mr Tjerk Medemblik (12 years as councillor, previously active in the Provincial Council)
- Mr Bert Homan (12 years as councillor, including 8 years in Assen)
- Ms Lia de Ruiter (12 years as councillor)
Mayor Out stated: “This royal honour is a token of appreciation and respect for all the years these councillors have dedicated to serving Assen and local democracy.”