Three departing council members honored with Royal Awards for years of public service
Three long-serving council members in Scherpenzeel were awarded Royal Honours last night, recognizing their dedication to local governance. The awards highlight the often unseen efforts of volunteers balancing public duties with personal and professional lives.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Award Recipients | Hein Dekker (CDA), Henny van Dijk (Van Dijk Faction), Henk Brons (Municipal Interests Scherpenzeel) |
| Honour | Members of the Order of Orange-Nassau |
| Award Presented By | Mayor Marieke Teunissen |
| Location | Scherpenzeel, Gelderland |
| Years of Service | Multiple years (exact duration not specified) |
| Date of Award | 31 March 2026 |
Local councils play a crucial role in representing citizens' interests, shaping policies, and overseeing municipal governance. The Royal Honours system acknowledges individuals who have made significant contributions to society, often through voluntary or public service roles.
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Royal Honours Awarded on Farewell of Council Members
The farewell of three council members took on a special note last night with the presentation of a Royal Honours Award by Mayor Marieke Teunissen.
Last night, three departing council members received a Royal Honours Award from Mayor Marieke Teunissen. Hein Dekker (CDA), Henny van Dijk (Van Dijk Faction) and Henk Brons (Municipal Interests Scherpenzeel) have all been appointed Members of the Order of Orange-Nassau. They received the Royal Honours Award for their many years of service as council members. “A Royal Honours Award is recognition of their years of dedication and lasting contribution to our society,” said Mayor Marieke Teunissen. “I think many people don’t realise that most council members have a job and are also council members. It’s not just the public meetings that demand a lot from a council member; there are also many invisible meetings and activities. Think of faction consultations, regional meetings, council meetings, reading documents, preparing meetings and drafting amendments and motions. That requires not only a lot from the council member, but also from their family.”