Commissioner of the King Brok: “Ms. Waanders is a sparkling personality and a model mayor, one of the best administrators we have in Fryslân. With her expertise, authenticity, and humor, she has colored the office in a distinctive way, close to the people. With her connecting qualities combined with her charm and social heart, she is an inspiration, also for me personally. I thanked her for her humanity and her significance for Fryslân in the various administrative roles she has fulfilled.”
Marga Waanders: “I can look back on a wonderful time as mayor of Waadhoeke. I was given the space and trust to serve this municipality and community in collaboration with so many special people. I am grateful for that. I must let go of that beautiful work earlier than intended due to the illness that overtook me. Under the circumstances, I am doing well. The carefree nature is gone, but not the hope for another period of good life with my loved ones. What remains is a big beating heart for Waadhoeke and the Waadhoekers.”
The unexpected passing of Waanders in March had and continues to have a great impact on residents, employees, and political leadership of the municipality of Waadhoeke. Waanders’ position has been filled since mid-April by acting mayor André van de Nadort. Waanders was a council member (1990-2001) and alderman (2001-2009) in the municipality of Leeuwarden. She then became mayor of Dongeradeel (2009-2018) and in 2018 she took over the mayorship of Waadhoeke. After the municipal elections in March next year, Brok will discuss with the new council how the mayorship will be filled.
The farewell of Waanders will be marked in November in a private setting with an informal gathering with fellow administrators in Leeuwarden. This will be offered to them by the commissioner of the King, as a thank you and a token of appreciation for all her contributions.
