The candidates are vying for four open seats. The city council is responsible for setting policy and making decisions on behalf of the residents of Roseburg. The city council’s role is multifaceted and complex, encompassing a wide range of responsibilities.
KLCC reached out to each of the candidates in the race about why they’re running, what they’d like to accomplish in office, and their thoughts on building a homeless shelter in town. There are nine votes total on Roseburg’s City Council. That includes four other seats which aren’t up for reelection, and Mayor Larry Rich, who is running this November unopposed. Ward 1, Position 2 City of Roseburg / Katie Williams Ward 1 Candidates: David Mohr (left) and Katie Williams (right). David Mohr (incumbent) — Director of Security, PacificSource Mohr was appointed to his current position in 2022. Born and raised in Roseburg, he said he found in office that the city “lacks a critical vision for its future.”
Mohr’s email, sent on October 26, 2023, outlined a plan for the city council to work with the community to develop a shared vision for Roseburg. He proposed a series of community meetings and workshops to gather input from residents, businesses, and other stakeholders. Mohr’s proposal was met with mixed reactions.
This is a common sentiment among residents and business owners in Roseburg. The city’s downtown area is experiencing a decline in foot traffic due to the lack of parking. This decline is attributed to the limited availability of parking spaces, which makes it difficult for customers to visit and spend money in the downtown area. The city council has been discussing the issue of parking for several months.
The City of Roseburg and Roseburg Public Schools are facing a critical juncture in their history. The upcoming election for Ward 2 on the Roseburg Public Schools Board of Education presents an opportunity for residents to shape the future of education in the Douglas County community. Two candidates, Andrea Zielinski and Steve Hammerson, are vying for this position.
* **Zielinski’s priorities:**
* Increasing downtown parking supply. * Attracting more law enforcement officers to town. * **Hammerson’s perspective:**
* Moved to Roseburg in 2020. * Vocal advocate for downtown revitalization.
A. City Council Member Aims for a Safer, More Affordable City
B.
* Hammerson, a City Council member, has stated his priorities for the city. * He plans to focus on affordable housing and new ordinances to curb illegal behavior. * He emphasizes the importance of listening to the concerns of residents before making decisions about a homeless shelter.
“I’m willing to put in the time and effort to be on the Council, and consider matters, and weigh them as fairly as I can,” said Michalek. “I’ll listen to my constituents as best as I can, and I’ll help them achieve what they want to achieve.” Michalek said he hopes the city’s new jail-time penalties for public camping work well enough that the city doesn’t need a homeless shelter. He said he’s worried about the accumulation of garbage at an organized site. Sam Starns — Elopement Photographer Starns was born and raised in Roseburg. She said she’ll represent demographics that she doesn’t see often in local elected positions.
I’ve been running my business for 10 years. I’ve seen a lot of changes in the business world, and I’ve learned a lot about what works and what doesn’t. I’m passionate about helping other entrepreneurs succeed, and I’m excited to share my knowledge and experience with you.”
This is a brief introduction to a business owner named Starns.
A. Mecham’s Roseburg Roots
B.
* **Mecham’s Background:** Mecham was born and raised in Roseburg. He has a strong connection to the community and understands its needs. * **Vision for City Council:** Mecham believes in fostering a sense of belonging for all community members. He aims to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment.
Weiss moved back to Roseburg four years ago. He said he’s running for City Council because downtown’s potential is not being realized. “We’re not all on a common path,” said Weiss. “We don’t have a downtown organization that’s leading the way. Those kinds of resources are very vital to any downtown that is going to thrive, to host events, to be a pedestrian-friendly zone.” Weiss said he wants to see a more robust neighborhood-watch network, and expand code enforcement to keep downtown clean. Before committing to a new shelter site, he said the city should bolster its existing laws and resources.