OCCUPATION: Oregon Licensed Electrician

OCCUPATIONAL BACKGROUND: Electrical Apprentice; Millwork; Farmwork

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND: Linn-Benton Community College; Lane Community College; Regis High School graduate; St. Marys Grade School

PRIOR GOVERNMENTAL EXPERIENCE: None

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Participant in 1998 Stayton Strategic Planning Workshops

Quail Run Neighborhood Watch; Captain

Quail Run Park; Volunteer and Design

Stayton Middle School; Carnival Volunteer

Stayton Middle School Parents Group

My wife, Maryann, and I married and bought our first home in Stayton. We have two children in the Stayton school system. As a life long Stayton area resident I am committed to the long term economic health and livability of the City of Stayton.

The next few years will be a crucial time for City Council action on issues that will affect our city for decades. The inevitable growth that we will experience will require continued planning and management to insure that it: Remains controlled; Pays its own way; Is developed to the highest possible standards to maintain our quality of life.

While new growth grabs our attention and dealing with it consumes a vast amount of city resources, I believe we must focus an equal amount of energy on revitalizing our existing neighborhoods, parks and business districts. A cooperative effort of citizen involvement and city resources is needed to enhance our park system and established neighborhoods while raising pride in our community. I have long believed that private business should lead the way for the downtown revitalization and I am encouraged to see this beginning. With this renewed commitment from the business community the city must be prepared to do its part to help strengthen the business core.

Having attended City Council meetings on a regular basis for several months, I have learned three things necessary for a successful Council:

1) Commitment to the interests of the City

2) Commitment to time and energy necessary to fulfill duties

3) Commitment to working together to resolve issues

I hope to use what I have learned to better serve the Citizens of Stayton.

David A. Nielson