Philomath City Council members who want to make their case to state lawmakers in person have a chance to do it early next year.
City Manager Chris Workman told councilors at Monday’s meeting that the League of Oregon Cities’ City Day at the Capitol is set for Jan. 26 at the Salem Convention Center.
“It’s a fun event,” Workman said. “We try very hard to not make that the only time that we talk to our legislators. We’ve done a very good job of that in the past few years, but it’s still a good opportunity to go there.”
The annual event brings mayors, city councilors and city staff from across Oregon to Salem to push the league’s legislative agenda and tell lawmakers how state decisions affect local communities. The league says this year’s event is aimed at supporting legislation that would give cities more authority over local decisions.
Workman said attendees typically hear from legislative leaders and that the governor usually makes a point to come and speak. The league’s lobbyists also outline the issues they plan to work on during the session and how cities can stay involved.
“It’s educational as well,” Workman said. “So it’s an enjoyable day at the Capitol, good for photo ops and everything else.”
McMorran to join League of Oregon Cities board of directors
Philomath Mayor Christopher McMorran will serve a three-year term on the League of Oregon Cities’ Board of Directors beginning next year. “Starting in January, I’ll be joining the LOC board, which I’m looking forward to, and I’m very honored to have that opportunity,” McMorran said. “So you’ll be hearing a lot more about the revenue…