Oostzaan bids emotional farewell to four dedicated councillors ahead of new council installation
Oostzaan honored four departing councillors for their years of service, highlighting their unique contributions to local governance, education, and sustainability. Their dedication leaves a lasting impact on the community as a new council takes office tonight.
| Name | Party | Key Contributions | Notable Quote |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frank Aan | PvdA | Fostered collaboration, worked behind the scenes for village unity | "In a democracy, you only achieve things by participating. Not shouting from the sidelines..." |
| Martin Alblas | VVD | Advocated for education and youth, brought a softer perspective to VVD portfolios | "Your commitment to excellent and accessible education was not typical of the VVD..." |
| Lize Boshoven | CDA | Ensured stability, mediated conflicts, and prioritized village time | "Multiple times, you managed to keep the council in check when the egos clashed..." |
| Hester Stroo | GroenLinks | Championed biodiversity, nature projects, and a greener Oostzaan | "Her relentless commitment to a greener Oostzaan..." |
| Event | New municipal council installation | Tonight, April 1, 2026 |
The Oostzaan municipal council plays a crucial role in local governance, shaping policies that directly affect residents' daily lives, from education to environmental initiatives. As an elected body, it ensures democratic representation and community-driven decision-making for the village.
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Farewell to the old Oostzaan municipal council during a special council meeting
During a special council meeting on Tuesday evening, Oostzaan said goodbye to four councillors who had contributed significantly to local governance over the past years. Frank Aan (PvdA), Martin Alblas (VVD), Lize Boshoven (CDA) and Hester Stroo (GroenLinks) received words of appreciation and a personal tribute.
Frank Aan
was praised for his calm and quiet strength. As an "Amsterdammer who accidentally ended up living in Oostzaan," he fully embraced the village. Often modestly working in the background, yet always essential for collaboration and substance. His motto was: "In a democracy, you only achieve things by participating. Not shouting from the sidelines, but rolling up your sleeves."
Martin Alblas
was commended for his tireless dedication to education and youth. His political drive was clear: a financially sound Oostzaan with a focus on future generations. His contributions were substantive, calm, and expert. Mayor Polak: "Your commitment to excellent and accessible education was not typical of the VVD, not of a faction, but of you. Above all, you were the face of the VVD when it came to the softer portfolios. In a party where security, construction, and roads often dominate, it was refreshing to hear your different perspective."
Lize Boshoven
gave the CDA the courage in 2022 to participate in the elections by standing as a candidate at the last moment. She even resigned from her job to have enough time for her village and was known for her meticulousness. Mayor Polak praised her decency, stability, and warm approach: "Multiple times, you managed to keep the council in check when the egos clashed. This made you a highly valued councillor, not only within your own party but also among other parties and the chair."
Hester Stroo
first became acquainted with politics during her studies in Plant Ecology and Nature Management in Wageningen through DWARS. After returning to Oostzaan, she found her place with GroenLinks, first as a faction assistant and since 2023 as a councillor. Although she initially preferred to work behind the scenes, she took on her responsibility when her name was drawn for the list. Her dedication to nature and the living environment is visible in the village: from biodiversity projects to maintenance around De Korenaar. The mayor thanked her for her fresh perspective and relentless commitment to a greener Oostzaan.
Tonight, Wednesday, April 1, the new municipal council of Oostzaan will be officially installed.