Dutch cities Zaanstad and Tilburg unveil new municipal council portfolios

The Zaanstad municipal council has assigned its newly elected wethouders to specific portfolios for the 2022‑2026 term. Harrie van der Laan will serve as first deputy mayor, overseeing housing, spatial development, land and real estate, as well as sports and refugee reception. Marianne de Boer becomes second deputy mayor, handling youth care, education, sports (excluding AZ), events, heritage, village vision, waste and mobility. Stephanie Onclin returns to finance, adding health, safety, economic affairs, tourism and marketing. Saskia Groenewoud (D66) receives the green portfolio covering environment, sustainability, energy transition, circular economy and climate adaptation, plus culture, legal affairs and ICT. Rob Karst focuses on the Zaanse Schans, local economy, net congestion, social care and debt assistance. Julie van ’t Veer is responsible for nature, recreation, animal welfare, income and integration. Erdoğan Şahin (DENK) takes public space, citizen participation, diversity and inclusion.

In Tilburg, the new College of Mayor and Aldermen for 2026‑2030 has also defined its members' responsibilities. Mayor Fleur Gräper van Koolwijk will manage public order, safety and governance, as well as regional and international cooperation. Aldermen include Evelien Kostermans (PRO) for green spaces, climate adaptation and social inclusion; Maarten van Asten (VVD) for finance, events, hospitality and digitalisation; Bas van der Pol (D66) for urban development, spatial planning and smart energy; Anne Veldhoven (CDA) for housing, accessibility and community connection; Yusuf Çelik (PRO) for work, livelihood security, climate and energy; Niels van Stappershoef (VVD) for economy, sport, enforcement and migration; and Hülya Kat (D66) for education, youth, health and culture.