City of Bocholt bids farewell to former council members

The city of Bocholt officially bid farewell to 27 former members of the city council at a ceremony this week. Mayor Christian Mangen honoured the politicians' many years of voluntary work for the city community at Landhaus Ridder.

The group of farewells included personalities with impressive periods of service. While some members worked for shorter periods of time, others characterised the city's events for over two decades. For example, Johannes Dyhringer with 26 years, Herbert Panofen with 23 years and Hanni Kammler with over 20 years on the council were praised for their commitment.

Mayor Christian Mangen also recalled the particular challenges of the coronavirus pandemic, during which political work had to continue under difficult conditions and strict requirements. The fact that the farewell could now be held in this festive setting was "an important sign of appreciation", said Mangen.

With a short minute's silence, those present paid tribute to the deceased of the last two council periods, including Reiner Bones, Dieter Hübers, Dr Heinrich Rehker and Maria Sonders as well as former mayor Peter Nebelo. Despite different political currents and sometimes heated debates in the budget discussions, respectful cooperation and the search for the best possible solution for the city had always been at the forefront of the Bocholt Council, emphasised Mangen.

At the end of the official tribute, the city of Bocholt presented the former city councillors with small gifts as a token of gratitude. Mayor Mangen expressed the hope that the retired politicians would remain connected to their city in the future: "be it in associations, initiatives or as attentive citizens", said Mangen.