Beverwijk bids farewell to long-serving councillors with royal honours and awards
Beverwijk honours its departing municipal councillors for their years of service to local democracy. Two councillors received royal distinctions, while eleven others were awarded for their dedication, marking the end of an era for the city’s governance.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Royal Honours | Bayram Gezer and Co den Hartog appointed Members of the Order of Orange-Nassau |
| Years of Service | Bayram Gezer: 28 years, Co den Hartog: 12 years |
| Municipal Award | 'The Wijkertoren' awarded to 11 councillors for at least 4 years of service |
| Award Recipients | A. Çoban, B.M. Kloes, H.I. Koçak, A. Deen-Zoontjes, L.J. Dijkman, R.M. Huis in ’t Veld-Langedijk, A.P.M. Limmen, C. Spindelaar, M.E.B. Stengs, J. den Hartog, B. Gezer |
| Location | Beverwijk, Noord-Holland |
The Beverwijk municipal council plays a crucial role in local governance, representing residents' interests and shaping policies that impact daily life. Recognizing long-serving councillors highlights the importance of civic engagement and continuity in local democracy.
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Royal honours and appreciation at farewell to Beverwijk municipal council
After years of dedication to the city, several municipal councillors took their leave from the Beverwijk municipal council. During this moment of reflection and gratitude, we paused to acknowledge their contributions to local democracy and the residents of the municipality.
Royal honours
A special moment was shared by two councillors. Mayor Martijn Smit presented Bayram Gezer and Co den Hartog with a royal honour: they have been appointed Members of the Order of Orange-Nassau. A recognition of their long-standing and valuable contributions.
Bayram Gezer served as a councillor for no less than 28 years, making him one of the longest-serving councillors in the Netherlands. For many residents, he was a familiar face and a first point of contact. With his involvement and accessibility, he was always ready to help and contribute ideas.
Co den Hartog also dedicated many years to Beverwijk. As a councillor for a total of 12 years, he was known for his sharp financial insight and clear, substantive contributions to debates. He brought structure and reliability to decision-making and earned visible respect within the council.
Appreciation for dedicated councillors
In addition to these royal honours, eleven (former) councillors received the municipal appreciation award, ‘the Wijkertoren’. This distinction is awarded to councillors who have served on the municipal council for at least four years.
- The Wijkertoren was presented to: A. Çoban, B.M. Kloes, H.I. Koçak, A. Deen-Zoontjes, L.J. Dijkman, R.M. Huis in ’t Veld-Langedijk, A.P.M. Limmen, C. Spindelaar, M.E.B. Stengs, J. den Hartog and B. Gezer.
The departure of these councillors marks the end of a period in which they, often alongside their work and personal lives, have dedicated themselves to the city and its residents.
The Beverwijk municipality extends its gratitude to all (former) councillors for their commitment, time and dedication.