Ostend (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Former Ostend mayor Bart Tommelein, who served 6 years, was awarded the honorary mayor title by the Flemish government, recognising his 25-year political career and long service to the city.
According to VRT News, Ex-mayor of Ostend Bart Tommelein received the honorary mayoral title for his many years of service to the city. The high-ranking honour is awarded to mayors serving a minimum of 6 years.
The decision-making process recently shifted from the local city council to the Flemish government. Tommelein received official confirmation of the honour after submitting the required documentation.
What does Bart Tommelein’s honorary mayor title mean for Ostend?
Bart Tommelein said that the award is a meaningful recognition of the time and effort he gave to the city.
“I spent a large part of my life in public service, so it feels good to be honoured like this,”
Tommelein said. Even though he has stepped away from active politics, the title lets him keep a formal connection to Ostend and its traditions.
Tommelein says,
“Not everyone has to agree with me about what I have or have not done, but it does feel good to be honorary mayor of the city where you have lived, lived and still live.”
Bart Tommelein said he is not sure if there will be an official celebration for his new honorary mayor title. He said the city council should get a copy of the letter soon. Tommelein joked that he can’t throw a party for himself. But he plans to celebrate quietly with friends and family.
In Ostend, most former mayors usually receive the honorary title. Of the last 5 mayors, only Johan Vande Lanotte did not get this honour because he was mayor for just 3 years after taking over from Jean Vandecasteele.
Officials mentioned that another common way to honour honorary mayors is by hanging their portrait in the city council chamber. Bart Tommelein said he should also get a portrait, but it is up to the current city council to decide and arrange this.
In Ghent and Leuven, former mayors who served for many years also received the honorary mayor title. These cities honour their past leaders with ceremonies and hang their portraits in city council rooms.
