Sitting in the mayor’s chair for his final regular monthly meeting as part of the Philomath City Council on Monday night, Eric Niemann lit a specially-made candle in memory of slain Waldport City Councilor Mark Campbell.
The moment was part of a tribute that Niemann put together for Campbell, who was killed Dec. 6 while fighting an intruder at an apartment near his residence.
“Our heart breaks with the city of Waldport as they grieve the tragic loss of Mark Campbell, who served on the Waldport City Council for 14 years,” Niemann said with a banner display of Campbell situated near him at City Hall.
Sue Woodruff, Waldport mayor pro tem, was present virtually for the presentation.
Woodruff thanked Niemann for reaching out to her and the council and putting together the tribute. She also mentioned another one of the mayor’s efforts that evening, which were programs involving the Siletz and Grand Ronde tribes (see separate story).
“It so perfectly illustrates … the value to our communities of becoming better neighbors and friends,” Woodruff said. “I’m humbled by your example and honored to share this time with you and your council tonight.”
Niemann followed by lighting the candle, which sat on the dais throughout the meeting in honor of Campbell. Candles were made for all members of the Waldport City Council and staff.
The candles feature Campbell’s photo and Waldport’s logo, along with the statements, “In loving memory of Mark Campbell” and “He was the best of us … city councilor, husband, dad, stepdad, businessman, friend, golfer, hero.”
Jeff McDaniels at Creative Graphics made the banner and Maegan Reynolds of Earthy Little Scents made the specialty candles. Niemann plans to meet with Woodruff for lunch this week to share the candles and banner.
Niemann also asked for a moment of silence before the meeting continued. Although it was his final regular meeting, Niemann will participate in a special meeting that was later scheduled for Dec. 21.
(Daily Scoop is a blog published by the Philomath News. This blog often contains news items but also could include opinions of Brad Fuqua, publisher/editor).