This week was quite busy (in a good way). I had the opportunity to speak with old friends and meet some new ones. I got to see some of the incredible things our local businesses and cities are working on. Marion County is such an incredible place and I am blessed to call it home.

Marion County Commissioner Janet Carlson
I am pleased to announce that current Marion County Commissioner Janet Carlson endorsed my campaign! Commissioner Janet Carlson has been a devoted servant to our community over the past 16 years and she is leaving some big shoes to fill. While it will be impossible to replace her, I promise I will work every day to serve Marion County with the same passion and commitment that she gave our community.

Mill City Bridge

I had the opportunity to visit with the Mayor of Mill City, Tim Kirsch! We spoke at lengths about the Tiger Grant that Mill City received to revitalize their Bridge that is is at the heart of the city and the main roadway. The bridge has been under a weight restriction for over two decades which has limited the number and size of log trucks that can use the bridge. Because the wood products industry is so important to Mill City, fixing this bridge will have an enormous economic impact on the area.

Touring Freres Lumber Co.

After my meeting in Mill City, I visited the Freres MPP plant where they are producing some of the most unique timber products in the country. I appreciate Tyler Freres taking the time to show me the incredible products and projects they're working on. The Freres Mass Plywood Panel product enables builders to build 5-12 story buildings out of wood instead of steel and concrete saving thousands of dollars in costs. I am incredibly proud to see such cutting-edge innovation in the Santiam Canyon.

Request a sign before they're gone

SummerFest 2018

I had a great time at the 23rd Annual SummerFest. I enjoyed my conversation with Stayton Police Chief Rich Sebens. We talked about Marion County's role in revitalizing downtown Stayton.

Keizer Fire Station

I also got to tour the Keizer Fire Station. I appreciate everything our first responders do for us. This has been a dangerous fire season for many Oregonians. Many people don’t know that many of the calls our firefighters respond to are ambulance calls. As your Marion County Commissioner I will be involved in determining the ambulance service areas for Marion County. It is absolutely critical that we ensure that our first responders have the resources they need to keep our communities safe.

I’m grateful I can always count on you.

God bless,

-- Colm

A Busy Summer