From the mayor’s desk: Meadow Martell

Most of July was a month of time off for me. My daughter, who now lives in Townsville, Australia, returned for a visit and much of my time was spent with her. And what a time we had! We traveled to Port Townsend Washington to visit her dad, participated in a friend’s wedding, went to the Oregon Country Fair, spent time at my place going through her things in storage, and sometimes just hanging out. I already miss her and have planned a trip to Australia early 2025 to see her.
It is good to be home. I did some mayor business shortly after returning by attending the Oregon Mayors Association Summer Conference in Klamath Falls the third week in July. It was an opportunity to meet with other mayors from around the state and spend some educational and fun time together. I always learn a lot about other cities around Oregon and how they approach and navigate issues that are facing our communities.
I am grateful for the competent staff and city council who kept things running smoothly as usual in my absence. Here is an update from Public Works Director Alex Ponder:
The Welcome Sign on the north end of town is up. It still needs lighting which is being scheduled. “Big Foot” will be added to welcome visitors and will be fabricated by Big Dog Fabrication.
The Rockydale Wells project is moving forward. The pump manufacturer is coming out in August to do a pump start up for each well. The wells should be up and running in September.
The south wall of the old feed store has been prepared for an upcoming mural. Thank you, Becky Patton, city recorder, for taking the lead on beautifying our city, including the painting project, murals and attractive electrical box wraps.
A new water service was installed at Joseph Flaherty’s community garden at the old pool grounds. Keep in mind that at this time of year, demand is high for water and our plant operators are working long hours.
The opening of the Splash Pad at Jubilee Park has been a major success. As usual with any project there is some fine tuning happening. Other improvements in our park include upgrading all exterior lighting in the park to LEDs, and staff are working on updating park ordinances including new park hours and signage.
It was great to see the major progress on our library that happened while I was gone. Exterior work is expected to be finished in August.