Politics & Government
Oregon City Election Results: Holladay Reelected, Smith Returns
Voters decided they like their mayor, aren't thrilled with one city commissioner and would like to soend money on schools.
OREGON CITY, OR – Oregon City voters had a lot on their plate this election. They reelected their mayor, elected two new members of the city commission – one of whom is actually making a return – and approved a major bond issue to help with city schools.
Mayor Dan Holladay received a vote of confidence from residents who decided to give him a second term. Holladay received 50 percent of the vote, beating back challenges from former Damon Mabee, a former city commissioner, and Mark Matheson.
Voters also decided to send Rocky Smith back to the city commission.
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Smith, an art teacher at Oregon City High School, served two terms in the commission, from 2009-2016,
Find out what's happening in Oregon Cityfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
He defeated incumbent Brian Shaw in what boiled down to a choice of should the city keep growing or should it focus on improving the city as it is.
Smith believes that the city need to focus improving quality of life for the people who are already living there. When that happens, the city should then look at growth.
Meanwhile, Rachel Lyles Smith defeated Mike Mitchell to take the seat being vacated by Renate Mengelberg who is retiring.
City residents also overwhelmingly passed a $158 million school bond that will give Oregon City money to replace Gardiner Middle School and renovate Ogden Middle School.
Money will also be used to ease overcrowding and increase security at other schools.
Photo via Colin Miner/Patch.
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