Three long-serving councillors honored with Royal Decorations and badges in Enkhuizen
Three departing councillors in Enkhuizen were recognized for their years of service to the community. Michel de Jong, Jan van der Werf, and Gerhard van Galen received awards for their dedication to municipal policy and resident representation, marking the end of their influential terms.
| Name | Political Party | Years of Service | Award Received |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michel de Jong | Enkhuizen Vooruit! | 16 years | Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau, Silver Badge |
| Jan van der Werf | CDA | 23 years | Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau, Silver Badge |
| Gerhard van Galen | CDA | 8 years | Silver Badge |
The municipal council of Enkhuizen plays a crucial role in local governance, representing residents' interests, shaping municipal policy, and overseeing the Executive Board. Recognizing long-serving councillors highlights their contributions to democratic processes and community development.
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Ribbons and badges for departing councillors
The municipal council officially said goodbye on Tuesday, 31 March 2026. During the farewell ceremony, Mayor Jeltje Hoekstra-Sikkema presented ribbons and badges to three departing councillors. These councillors have represented residents for years, made decisions on municipal policy, and monitored the Executive Board.
Michel de Jong (Enkhuizen Vooruit!)
Michel de Jong received a Royal Decoration and a silver badge. Mr De Jong has been active in the municipal council for nearly 16 years in total. From 1 June 2010 to 5 May 2014, he served as a committee member. He then became a councillor for Nieuw Enkhuizen, followed briefly by Voor Enkhuizen. Since March 2018, Mr De Jong has been a councillor for Enkhuizen Vooruit. He is knowledgeable and dedicated. In addition to his role as councillor, he served as deputy council chair, committee chair, and chair of the employers' committee. He has wholeheartedly dedicated himself to society. For his many years of service, Michel de Jong receives an award as a Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau.
Jan van der Werf (CDA)
Jan van der Werf received a Royal Decoration and a silver badge. Mr Van der Werf has been active in the municipal council, with some interruptions, for 23 years. He began on 5 June 2000 as a committee member for the CDA and served in that role until 31 October 2006. He then became a councillor from April 2008 until March 2014. After a brief period, he resumed his role as councillor in December 2015 and has held the position ever since. Additionally, Mr Van der Werf was the CDA's lead candidate in 2018. He also served as the CDA's parliamentary leader from January 2017 to March 2022 and again from April 2024. He has wholeheartedly dedicated himself to society. For his many years of service, Jan van der Werf receives an award as a Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau.
Gerhard van Galen (CDA)
Gerhard van Galen received the silver badge. Mr Van Galen has been active as a CDA councillor for 8 years since 23 March 2018. He is a dedicated and knowledgeable councillor. In 2022, Gerhard van Galen was the CDA's lead candidate, and from March 2022 to April 2024, he served as parliamentary leader. He was also a member of the agenda committee until 2023.