Maassluis honors eleven departing councillors as new term begins
Eleven municipal councillors in Maassluis stepped down after their term, receiving recognition for their service. The transition marks a new chapter for local democracy, with incoming councillors set to take office today.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| City | Maassluis |
| Number of councillors | 11 departing |
| Royal Honours | Dick Snoeck (VVD), Sandra Vreugdenhil (VVD), Mehmet Çiçek (CDA) |
| Municipal Medal | Aad Solleveld (MB/VVD) |
| Goblets awarded | 6 large, 5 small |
| New term start | 1 April 2026 |
| Mayor | Jack de Vries |
The municipal council of Maassluis plays a key role in local governance, representing citizens and shaping policies that affect daily life in the city. Transitions like these ensure democratic renewal while honoring the contributions of outgoing members.
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Farewell to eleven municipal councillors
During a special meeting on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, the municipal council bid farewell to eleven councillors. After the recent council term, they are stepping down from their roles.
They received words of appreciation for their dedication, involvement, and contributions to the governance of Maassluis. Mayor Jack de Vries stated: "Each of these councillors has contributed in their own way to the development of Maassluis. With their commitment, expertise, and dedication, they have strengthened the work of the council. Tonight, we express our gratitude, but we also mark the moment when a new council takes over. This is the strength of our local democracy: continuity, renewal, and shared responsibility for our city."
Awards
Three councillors received a Royal Honour upon their departure for their long-standing and meaningful contributions to local governance. Dick Snoeck and Sandra Vreugdenhil (both VVD) were presented with the accompanying insignia during the council meeting. Mehmet Çiçek (CDA) will receive his award on 15 April 2026 during the CDA members' meeting. Additionally, Aad Solleveld (MB/VVD), in recognition of his exceptional dedication and lasting impact on the city, was awarded the Municipal Medal of Honour.
Goblets
All departing councillors received a goblet as a lasting memento of their service to the city. Dick Snoeck, Sandra Vreugdenhil, Aad Solleveld, Mehmet Çiçek, Martin Boekestijn, and Raoul Kleijwegt received a large goblet. Paul Luijenburg, Hans de Bruin, Richard van Scherpenzeel, Hans van Gastel, and Lisette van Velzen were presented with a small goblet.
New council term
The farewell of the outgoing councillors marks a formal step in the transition to the new council term. On Wednesday, 1 April 2026, the newly elected councillors will be sworn in during the public council meeting.