Zundert Councilor Rick Zagers Starts Term After Defence Career

Rick Zagers, newly appointed councilor in Zundert, began his four‑year term alongside mayor Joyce Vermue. Born in the Breda hospital and raised in Zundert, Zagers spent three decades at the Dutch Ministry of Defence, most recently as an innovation manager. He said his defence experience taught him to keep up with rapid societal change, especially since the war in Ukraine began.

Zagers highlighted his commitment to tackling the municipality’s pressing dossiers, emphasizing a pragmatic approach: “Niet lullen, maar poetsen.” He noted the challenges of finding housing during the economic crisis of his youth and described his long‑term involvement in local politics, including twelve years on the municipal council before becoming an alderman. The new council aims to address local innovation, housing, and public‑service issues over the coming term.