Community Spotlight: Dan Holladay, Oregon City Mayor

OREGON CITY, OR- Ever wondered what it's like to be Mayor for a day? Patch talks to Dan Holladay about his experience as mayor of Oregon City, and his plans for the future of this 'City of Firsts.'

Dan Holladay, current mayor of Oregon City, has a long and storied history with local government. He was born in a small town near Eureka, California. It was during his sixth grade year that he moved to Oregon City, where his mother began what would be a thirty year stint as a secretary at an Oregon City public elementary school.

Holladay graduated from Oregon City High School in 1979. In addition to participating in band, choir and drama, he was the first student elected member of the school board. His passion for civic duty has not ceased since.

"I served a term on the school board, but when when family and work obligations got in the way, I wasn't able to run again until my kids were out of high school," said Holladay, when asked what drew him to the role of Mayor. "With all of the exciting things going on in Oregon City, I wanted to keep us moving in the right direction, so I stepped up."

Oregon City has several projects in the works, all of which promise to improve the city's livability as well as its economy. The Legacy Project of Willamette Falls, once completed, will allow for the people of Oregon City to access the scenic water front view for the fist time in 150 years. What was formerly the Blue Heron Paper Mill will now be home to historic storefronts that are easy to walk and bike. For more details about the project, visit Rediscover the Falls.

This project, among others, is part of what Holladay dubs "the renaissance in Oregon City."

Another element of Oregon City local government that makes it stand out from other cities is the relationship that the Chamber of Commerce and the Business Alliance have with one another and with the Mayor.

"We wouldn't be where we're at today were it not for a very involved Chamber of Commerce and an active business alliance," said Holladay, "the business alliance is a politically active body; they do an educational event once a month. For this last one, they brought an expert in on urban renewal."

Political affiliations may differ, and personal agendas might too. According to Holladay, these details are minor and not at all preventative.

"Everyone's pretty much in the same boat to make projects happen and have good things occur in Oregon City," said Holladay.

Image via Dan Holladay; City of Oregon City