From the mayor’s desk: Meadow Martell

December is in full swing and just as busy as I predicted. Last week I attended the Winter Library Volunteer Appreciation luncheon at the Grants Pass library branch. I sat at the impromptu Cave Junction table and had a wonderful time connecting with other library volunteers. I also attended the IV Living Solutions luncheon for community volunteers at Pappy T’s. There were at least 30 people there having a great time. The IRVAC (Illinois River Arts Council) held it 12th year Artisan Holiday Faire in the Lorna Byrne Middle School gym. I was impressed by the variety of the 48-hand crafted and locally made booths and the local entertainment. The funds raised go to the ”Learning Through the Arts” program in our schools. Do we have a great community or what!
Last week, the City of Cave Junction hosted the League of Oregon Cities Small Cities meeting for the southwestern Oregon Region 7. Twenty-five representatives from seven small cities in our region were in attendance. The meeting was held in City Hall and was beautifully decorated for the holidays by city recorder, Becky Patton, and Councilor Jean Ann Miles. The host city provides the place and luncheon for the small city representatives. Trillium Bakery was the caterer and the food was delicious. The surprise dessert was homemade cinnamon rolls baked by Councilor Jean Ann and John Miles, Parks and Recreation Chair. Jean Ann decorated the Christmas tree with homemade beaded lanyards for everyone. It was a fun and informative time. Representatives from the cities share what is happening in their small cities. This is one of the most interesting and informative groups of people serving their small city in our region. It has been an honor and privilege to be a part of it. At the end there was a heart warming thank you from Rogue River that brought me really close to tears. I will miss the friends I have made.
Other than signing checks, there are no other tasks I have to perform as mayor until January 13th, the first City Council meeting in 2025. At that time, I will give the State of the City Address for 2024 and hand over the gavel to the new mayor, Jesse Dugas. The mayor’s office is ready for a new occupant. I hope the residents of Cave Junction will give the new mayor and city staff the same respect and interest that I have enjoyed over the last six years.