Borkum's Bürgermeister: News & Challenges Facing The Island

Savanah Lebsack 12 May 2025

Ever wondered who steers the ship of a tranquil North Sea island, balancing tradition with progress? Jürgen Tönjes Akkermann, the independent Bürgermeister (Mayor) of Borkum, embodies just that, navigating the unique challenges and opportunities facing this cherished German island.

The role of Bürgermeister in Borkum is more than just a title; it’s a linchpin in the island's administrative structure. As one of the organs of the town of Borkum, the Bürgermeister holds the highest office in its administration. Elected for a five-year term through an absolute majority vote, the Bürgermeister is the chief administrative officer, responsible for the day-to-day running of the administration. Located at Neue Straße 1, 26757 Borkum, the town hall serves as the epicenter of the island’s governance. Jürgen Tönjes Akkermann, currently in office, assumed this pivotal role in November 2019, succeeding Georg Lübben, also an independent.

Jürgen Tönjes Akkermann: Biographical and Professional Overview
Full Name	Jürgen Tönjes Akkermann
Age	53 (as of 2019)
Political Affiliation	Independent (Parteilos)
Current Position	Bürgermeister (Mayor) of Borkum
Term Start Date	November 2019
Predecessor	Georg Lübben (Independent)
Election Details (2019)	Won in the first round with 54.5% of the vote Defeated Markus Stanggassinger (SPD, 23.5%), Derk Michels Steemann (Independent, 21.4%), and Ziegler (Independent, 0.65%)
Responsibilities	Chief administrative officer responsible for the daily operations of the Borkum administration. Addressing key issues such as full-day schooling, housing, geothermal energy, medical care, nature conservation, education, finance, policing, and broadband expansion.
Key Initiatives & Challenges	Navigating the challenges and developments shaping the island of Borkum. Seeking preliminary injunctions to protect Borkum’s valuable habitat. Addressing concerns related to gas drilling projects near the island.
Contact Information (Town Hall)	Neue Straße 1, 26757 Borkum
Additional Information	Committed to preserving the UNESCO World Heritage Wadden Sea and the Lower Saxon Wadden Sea National Park.
Official Website	www.borkum.de