Monday Jan. 13, 2025, marked the end of my six-year term as mayor of the city of Cave Junction. Over the last six years I have come to deeply appreciate the effort it takes to keep a city running smoothly. I was glad to participate in that endeavor and hope I have left the Office of the Mayor intact and maybe a little better. I have to be honest that I have some mixed feelings. I enjoyed the role that the mayor plays in a small community, and I have seen a lot of growth and improvement over the years I spent in that role. I will miss being actively involved in whatever future positive changes happen in the city of Cave Junction. I am confident the city is in good hands. The staff is well seasoned and experienced. Jesse Dugas, the new mayor, is invested in the community and I expect he will have a positive impact.
I still feel personally involved in my community and making it a better place. Cave Junction is not a backwater town. We are not isolated, stagnant or lacking in progress. We are a community that is busy, lively and thriving. As a resident I will continue to put in the time and energy to continue seeing positive changes.
If you know me well, you will understand that without the constraints of city obligations I am free to travel when I want. I have a trip to Kona, Hawaii coming up soon and a visit to my daughter in Townville, Australia in May. I am lucky to have a land partner who takes care of things while I am gone, including my dog, Zadee. And when I return, I am always grateful for the Illinois River Valley and the wonderful, special place where we live. You will hear about my latest adventures after my trip to Hawaii.
Until then, be safe, be well, be joyful!
(Editor’s Note: Although Meadow Martell is now a former mayor, she would like to continue writing for the Illinois Valley News as a community activist and volunteer. Thank you Meadow for your years of volunteer government service!)
