Weststellingwerf bids farewell to twelve councillors with Royal Honours for two long-serving members
Twelve councillors in Weststellingwerf are stepping down, marking a significant shift in local governance. Two dedicated members, Hans Visser and Ed de Vries, received Royal Honours for their years of service, highlighting their impact on the community and local democracy.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Municipality | Weststellingwerf |
| Number of departing councillors | 12 |
| Royal Honours recipients | J. (Hans) Visser (CDA) and E. (Ed) de Vries (VVD) |
| Hans Visser’s tenure | Councillor since 2018, previously in Wymbritseradiel and Súdwest-Fryslân |
| Ed de Vries’ tenure | Councillor since 2014 |
| Roles held by Hans Visser | Chair of Audit Committee, Agenda Committee, General Committee |
| Initiatives by Ed de Vries | ‘Guest of the council’, school visits |
| Date of farewell | 31 March 2026 |
The municipal council of Weststellingwerf plays a crucial role in local governance, overseeing policy decisions, community engagement, and administrative functions. It is responsible for nominating individuals for Royal Honours to recognize their contributions to public service and the community.
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Festive farewell for councillors
The municipal council of Weststellingwerf is on the brink of a period of change. A total of twelve councillors are taking their leave. The coalition negotiations may result in some councillors moving on to become aldermen, which would again alter the composition of the municipal council. The council has also said goodbye to the duo committee members, who have made a valuable contribution to deliberations and decision-making within the general committee.
Royal Honours
Mayor Stieneke van der Graaf presented Royal Honours to two councillors during this special council meeting: J. (Hans) Visser (CDA) and E. (Ed) de Vries (VVD). Both have dedicated many years to local democracy and the community with great commitment.
Hans Visser has been a councillor in Weststellingwerf since 2018 and has held important roles as chair of the Audit Committee, Agenda Committee and General Committee. With his extensive administrative experience – including as a councillor in Wymbritseradiel and Súdwest-Fryslân and as a member of the Provincial Council of Fryslân – he was a stable and expert force within the council. Outside the town hall, Visser is also very active as a volunteer, including with Plaatselijk Belang Oldeholtpade, the Protestant Community Ter Holten and the Griffioenbus Foundation.
Ed de Vries has been a councillor since 2014 and was known as an enthusiastic and approachable representative. His efforts within the Administrative Renewal working group contributed significantly to increasing residents' involvement in local politics. His enthusiasm and dedication, including initiatives such as ‘Guest of the council’ and visits to schools, helped make the municipal council more visible and accessible.
In recognition of their many years of valuable service, the municipal council decided to nominate both Hans Visser and Ed de Vries for a Royal Honour. This expresses the council’s great appreciation for their contributions to public administration and society.
Gratitude and appreciation
The municipal council warmly thanks all departing councillors for their dedication, involvement and commitment. Their work has had a lasting impact on Weststellingwerf.
Photos: Lenus van der Broek