Nissewaard – Within six months the time has come: the municipal elections. Yet local politics is still unknown territory for many residents. To help them get to know the council members better, LINQ Media is introducing the Face Behind the Seat section. In these interviews we talk to a councilor every week. This week we speak with Pieter Verhoog, party chairman on behalf of the CDA.
Pieter Verhoog (60) was born and raised in Spijkenisse. ‘My parents came to live here in the sixties. I am married, have two daughters and now also grandchildren. I really like that.’ In addition to his political work, Pieter works in Leidschendam, with a strong focus on The Hague, for national supermarket chains. He is also a director at two pension funds. In his spare time, Pieter enjoys badminton, enjoys quality time with his family, likes to go on holiday and delve into books that are separate from his daily work.
Politics is in the blood
Politics is in Pieter’s blood. ‘My father was once on the council. I attended membership meetings at an early age and felt that I wanted to make a difference. In 2010 I became active as a supporter of the faction, and in 2015 I became a councilor. I will be on the list as party leader again for the next period.’ His background in public administration helps him understand complex files. ‘I’m used to reading a lot of documents and having meetings. In my work I mainly look at the top of organizations, but in the council you see a cross-section of society. That’s inspiring.’
Pieter describes himself as a councilor who keeps an eye on things, but also dares to be direct when necessary. ‘Sometimes you just have to name nonsense, but other than that I’m happy to let nonsense pass. Otherwise you just pay attention to it.’ His choice for the CDA is clearly rooted in personal conviction. ‘The CDA is a party of norms and values. I’ve never doubted that. You have to do politics based on fundamental principles.’
Accessibility, affordable construction and the social domain
Pieter currently sees three important themes in the municipality. ‘Accessibility, affordable construction and the social domain, especially youth care, require our attention. We invest a lot in the outdoor space, but this is often done through loans that have to be paid off later. In addition, many people who need support lag behind and find it difficult to keep up. We have regularly asked the council for figures on the consequences of the cuts. We need to pay more attention to that.’ He actively maintains contact with residents through schools, farmers, refugee work and church activities. ‘It’s about genuine involvement, not just about political gamesmanship.’
Long term vision
Pieter will also lead the list as party leader of the CDA in the upcoming municipal elections. He looks at his political career with a long-term view: ‘I want to leave the party better than I found it. It’s about content, continuity and space for new people. That is why I will continue after the next elections: to pass on experience and knowledge and to ensure that the party remains strong in the future.’
His advice to future politicians is clear: ‘Start quietly, get to know the game, read along and form your own image. Politics is valuable work, but you have to really want it.’
