Three long-serving Stadskanaal councillors awarded Royal honours for dedication to community
Three councillors in Stadskanaal received Royal honours for their over twelve years of service, marking their significant contributions to local welfare, safety, and community spirit. Their work has left a lasting impact on residents' daily lives and the municipality's development.
| Name | Political Party | Years of Service | Key Focus Areas | Honour Received |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theo Klinkhamer | PvdA | 12 | Youth, education, poverty, liveability | Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau |
| Grietje Schipper | PvdA | 20+ (with break) | Leadership, culture, twin town relations | Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau |
| Frits van der Heide | ChristenUnie | 12 | Safety, health, sports, community spirit | Member of the Order of Orange-Nassau |
The municipal council of Stadskanaal, led by Mayor Klaas Sloots, is responsible for local governance, including policy-making and community welfare. Royal honours are awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to society, often on the recommendation of local authorities.
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Three councillors receive Royal honours during farewell to municipal council on 30 March 2026
During last night’s council meeting, the municipal council said farewell to councillors who will not return in the new council term. For three of them, it was a special moment: they had been active in the council for twelve years or more and were therefore awarded a Royal Honour by Mayor Klaas Sloots. Theo Klinkhamer, Grietje Schipper and Frits van der Heide have been appointed Members of the Order of Orange-Nassau.
From l. to r.: Theo Klinkhamer, Mayor Klaas Sloots, Grietje Schipper and Frits van der Heide - Photo: Auniek Klijnstra
Theo Klinkhamer (PvdA)
Theo Klinkhamer has been a councillor since 2014 and has dedicated twelve years to promoting a social and safe municipality. He focused on youth, education, poverty alleviation and liveability in the villages. In addition to his political work, he has been active in Alteveer for many years, including as chairman of vv Alteveer. He also works as a youth case manager at Kwartier Zorg en Welzijn Midden-Groningen.
Grietje Schipper (PvdA)
Grietje has been a member of the municipal council since the late 1990s, with a brief interruption. For many years, she served as parliamentary group leader and later as deputy chair of the council. In addition to her political work, Grietje is known for her colourful paintings. One of her recent works, featuring the Handelskade, hangs in the reception hall of the town hall. She is also closely involved with the twin town of Lilienthal.
Frits van der Heide (ChristenUnie)
Frits van der Heide has been a councillor since 2014 and was known for his calm and committed contributions to the council. He paid particular attention to safety, health, sports and community spirit. He is also active as a volunteer in Onstwedde, including with Stichting Welzijn Onstwedde-Alteveer / De Schakel, 4M Nederland, the Onstwedde Gaarv’n and Onstwedde.info.
Appreciation for long-standing commitment
Mayor Sloots described it as a special moment: “These three councillors have dedicated themselves to Stadskanaal with conviction for many years. Their involvement both within and outside the council has been of great significance to our residents. It is an honour to award them on behalf of His Majesty the King.”