By Rebecca Wallis
NEWBERG, OR – September 26, 2024
Below are the 15 complex questions asked of Councilor Hollamon on a variety of multi-layered subjects. Councilor Hollamon chose to answer 15 of the 15 questions. Our editorial team did not throw softballs. We threw hardballs. Our complex questions are relevant, provocative, and essential to understanding the person who is running for city council. All answers provided by this candidate have been printed in their entirety, without editing, exactly as provided.
1. Why are you running for Newberg City Council, and what inspired you to get involved in local politics?
As a small business owner, I understand the increasing challenges of doing business in Oregon. Yamhill County, and Newberg in particular, has historically been one of the toughest places for business development due to land use restrictions, lack of industrial land, and high service development charges (SDCs).
In the past year, our council revamped and reduced the SDC structure, prioritizing a new childcare development exemption. I believe the health of our community depends on the growth and success of our businesses, both large and small. Thriving businesses lead to higher-wage jobs, helping residents afford rising costs.
Investing in our businesses through urban renewal, reduced SDCs, and a customer-first approach between local government and business will enable Newberg residents to live, work, and play right here in our community.
2. What do you see as the most pressing issue facing Newberg today, and how do you plan to address it if elected?
One of the biggest issues facing Newberg residents is the rising cost of living, which impacts everything from housing affordability to access to essential services. Livability is directly tied to this challenge, as residents struggle to balance quality of life with financial realities.
To address this, I believe we should focus on growing Newberg’s business community. By supporting local entrepreneurs and attracting diverse businesses, we can increase job opportunities, stimulate the economy, and generate more local revenue. This influx of business can lead to a stronger, more self-sustaining local economy, which can help drive down the cost of goods and services by keeping money circulating within our community.
3. What are your key priorities for economic development in Newberg? How will you support small businesses and economic growth?
Investing in urban renewal is another crucial step. Revitalizing key areas of our city will not only improve infrastructure, but also enhance the overall appeal of Newberg as a destination to live, work, and visit. When we invest in our streets, public spaces, and facilities, we can attract new businesses and increase property values in a way that benefits both residents and newcomers.
Expanding our visitor economy is an opportunity we should also capitalize on. As the heart of Oregon’s wine country, proximity to historic sites, and natural beauty of the Willamette Valley, we have the potential to grow our tourism industry significantly. A stronger tourism sector brings in external revenue, which can offset local tax burdens and provide funding for community projects, further enhancing livability.
Together, these initiatives—business growth, urban renewal, and tourism expansion—can create a positive feedback loop that ultimately reduces the cost of living, making Newberg a more affordable, thriving place for everyone.
4. Housing affordability is a growing concern across Oregon. What policies would you advocate for to improve housing options in Newberg?
I moved to Newberg in 2016 in my mid-twenties because I wanted to raise my family in a small, close-knit community and I could afford to buy a home.
During my time on the Council, I’ve supported multiple initiatives to incentivize builders to fill the need for our missing “Middle Housing” and encouraged large employers to collaborate on housing for their workforce.
The key aspects to create a livable, workforce-supported community are:
- Comprehensive city zoning analysis.
- Infrastructure investment through urban renewal to incentivize developers and reduce building costs.
- Consistent review of service development charges (SDCs) to lower costs whenever possible.
- Collaborative partnerships with SEDCOR and the Missing Middle Housing Fund to help large employers plan and build housing for their workers.
- Keeping rates and fees as low as possible while still planning for the future.
5. Newberg has faced divisive issues regarding education and community values. How would you promote unity and collaboration among diverse groups within the city?
As a non-partisan council member and candidate, I’ve learned to navigate difficult conversations and stay grounded in what’s best for the community, recognizing that sometimes it’s more important to demonstrate collegial, robust discussion – driving towards consensus – than winning every vote. We can all disagree, but I have, and will continue to promote collaboration to choose what is best for all those who call Newberg home.
The key is to create opportunities for civic engagement in the pursuit of shared decision making on issues that affect all of us day to day. Things like safe streets, running water, and well-maintained infrastructure are not political. They are fundamental services that everyone relies on, regardless of their political views. By focusing on these community priorities and keeping an open mind, we can set aside partisan differences and work together to make Newberg a better place to live for everyone.
It’s about being principled, yes, but also pragmatic. We have to listen to the community, collaborate, and find common ground on the issues that unite us. This approach is not only possible, but essential, for effective local governance and a path forward for Newberg.
6. How do you plan to ensure that Newberg remains a safe and livable community for all residents?
Many believe you must choose between supporting homelessness and addiction services or public safety. I believe we ensure public safety by investing in real solutions for homelessness and addiction. Ignoring these issues doesn’t make them go away. And ignoring these issues ultimately costs the taxpayers in the long run.
Neighboring communities without solutions for homelessness and addiction have seen the rise of campgrounds, tents, and people suffering on the streets.
In Newberg, our sheltering model and strong partnership with the police have balanced compassion and accountability. Our business community has played a role in maintaining safety and livability downtown, while local service providers and the police have supported those struggling.
Our police department works hard to keep Newberg residents safe, and it has been a privilege to collaborate with them on effective solutions for everyone.
7. Environmental sustainability is increasingly important. What initiatives would you propose to support sustainability and environmental protection in Newberg?
To support sustainability and environmental protection in Newberg, I’d propose several initiatives:
- **Electric Vehicle Charging Stations**: Installing electric car chargers in public parking lots is a key initiative. These chargers not only encourage the adoption of electric vehicles but also help local While people wait for their vehicles to charge, they can shop, dine, or explore downtown, driving economic activity. This initiative could be supported through available grants, making it both economically and environmentally beneficial.
- **New Water Treatment Plant**: The development of the new water treatment plant is a crucial step in enhancing environmental sustainability. This upgrade strengthens the city’s water management, improves resilience, and ensures a more sustainable future for our water resources. It’s a work in progress but represents a major investment in Newberg’s environmental infrastructure.
- **Supporting Local Businesses**: Strengthening local businesses is also an environmentally friendly Encouraging residents to shop locally reduces the need for travel to other cities, cutting down on fuel consumption and emissions. Promoting the “shop local” message is one of the most impactful ways to support the environment, as it not only boosts the local economy but also lowers the community’s overall carbon footprint.
These initiatives will create a ripple effect, making Newberg more sustainable while benefiting both the environment and the local economy.
8. How will you improve transparency and communication between the City Council and the citizens of Newberg?
I will continue to do what I have been doing during my tenure as a current City Council member, which is to be honest and transparent in all decisions that are made, answer any questions honestly and openly with community members, and making myself available to those who wish to have a conversation.
9. What is your stance on local infrastructure, including transportation and public facilities? How would you prioritize improvements in this area?
Investing in urban renewal is another crucial step. Revitalizing key areas of our city will not only improve infrastructure, but also enhance the overall appeal of Newberg as a destination to live, work, and visit. When we invest in our streets, public spaces, and facilities, we can attract new businesses and increase property values in a way that benefits both residents and newcomers.
Street disrepair is a significant issue that impacts both livability and safety. Our Transportation Utility Fee (TUF) isn’t sufficient to cover the growing costs of maintaining and repairing our roads, leading to a backlog of street maintenance. It’s clear that additional funding mechanisms, or a re-evaluation of current resources, are needed to address this gap and ensure that our infrastructure keeps up with the needs of our community. We have to balance investment in our infrastructure, with the reality of the cost of living, and need to keep taxes low for Newberg residents.
Another area that could benefit from improvement is the coordination between taxing districts—such as CPRD (Chehalem Parks and Recreation District), TVFR (Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue), NDPS (Newberg-Dundee Police Department), the City, and Yamhill County. Each of these entities plays a crucial role in shaping Newberg’s future, but without better alignment and coordination, growth becomes inefficient, lacks intentionality, and delivery is disjointed. We need to foster better collaboration between these groups to ensure that as our city expands, it does so in a way that is both sustainable and fair. As a leader in this area, I believe that by working together, we can avoid duplicating efforts, reduce costs, and build a stronger, more unified community infrastructure. Improving these facets will go a long way toward making Newberg a better place to live and ensuring that our growth is both well-planned and well-executed.
10. Newberg has a rich history and culture. How would you preserve the city’s heritage while also fostering growth and modernization?
To preserve Newberg’s rich heritage while fostering growth and modernization, I would focus on a few key strategies:
- **Enhancing Historical Signage**: Building on the excellent work by the downtown coalition, I believe we should increase the use of historical signage around the Highlighting the rich history of Newberg through visible and engaging signage will not only enhance civic pride but also contribute to the visitor economy. Visitors are drawn to cities with a strong sense of place and history, and such initiatives can drive local spending.
- **Supporting Local Programs**: I would actively support programs put forth by the downtown coalition, the chamber of commerce, and Taste These groups play a vital role in balancing heritage preservation with economic growth. By leveraging transit lodging tax dollars, we can fund efforts that promote tourism, support local businesses, and preserve the city’s cultural identity while encouraging responsible modernization.
- **Balancing Growth and Heritage**: As Newberg grows, it’s important to maintain a focus on historical preservation, even as we embrace new This balance can be achieved by incorporating historical elements into new projects and developments, ensuring that modernization does not come at the cost of our cultural heritage.
These efforts will foster a dynamic, thriving community that honors Newberg’s past while embracing the future.
11. What strategies do you have for addressing homelessness in the community?
In 2020, as the board chair of a non-profit organization, I helped address the need for shelter in Newberg. Previously, the Newberg Emergency Shelter only operated during bad weather with volunteers. Recognizing the ongoing demand for shelter, we transformed it into a nightly shelter within six months. This shelter then served an average of 35 Yamhill County residents per night, providing medical, behavioral health, addiction services, dinner, and breakfast.
Last year, as other organizations stabilized with state and federal funding, we shifted to offering daytime relief services in partnership with 2nd Street Church at the Drop-In Center. This collaboration fosters trust and accountability between clients and service providers.
Having personally struggled with addiction, I understand the challenges trauma can pose in accessing support. As a small business owner, I also recognize the need for a safe, livable community. We must support homelessness without resorting to campgrounds or tents. Our residents deserve better, and elected officials must hold agencies accountable to ensure our tax dollars meet community needs.
12. What role do you think the City Council should play in supporting local schools and educational initiatives?
The City Council should play a collaborative and supportive role in local schools and educational initiatives. While education is primarily the responsibility of the school board, the City Council has an opportunity to contribute through growth and infrastructure planning. By working together, the City Council and the school board can ensure that schools are adequately supported as the city grows, ensuring safe and accessible routes to schools and aligning infrastructure development with school needs.
Additionally, I have been a strong advocate for increasing funding for School Resource Officers (SROs), which play an important role in maintaining safety in our schools. Despite the recent school budget crisis, I have worked to ensure that funding for these positions is maintained. This kind of advocacy, combined with collaboration on infrastructure, can create a safer, more supportive environment for students and educators, helping our schools to thrive.
13. How would you work with state and county officials to ensure Newberg’s interests are represented at the higher levels of government?
To ensure Newberg’s interests are represented at the higher levels of government, it is important to maintain a focused approach while staying informed and engaged with county and state officials. While each elected body must stay within its specific roles, collaboration is key to leveraging funding opportunities and addressing shared interests. We should be looking for opportunities of shared values, not opportunities to fight one another.
I worked very closely with our state officials and have partnered with the Board of Commissioners (BOC) to secure shelter funding for Newberg, demonstrating the importance of these partnerships. There are also significant opportunities for collaboration around infrastructure investments and a countywide approach to addressing homelessness and addiction. By maintaining open lines of communication and actively pursuing funding and resources, we can ensure Newberg’s voice is heard and its needs are met at the state and county levels.
14. What is your approach to handling the city’s budget and ensuring fiscal responsibility?
I believe Newberg’s budget is healthy, but we haven’t yet begun to leverage current funds effectively, and that needs to change. While it’s important to maintain a responsible financial reserve, holding large amounts of money in reserve for multiple budget cycles sends the wrong message to the development and business community. It signals that we aren’t ready or willing to partner for commercial, housing, and industrial development within the district, which can deter growth.
We need to prioritize using our economic development tools more proactively. By investing in businesses and improving livability, we can create a more vibrant local economy. This means putting resources toward infrastructure projects, urban renewal, and incentivizing local entrepreneurs. When we show that we’re ready to invest in our community, it attracts further investment from outside, helping to lower costs, improve services, and make Newberg a more attractive place to live and work.
The budget is a tool for progress, and we need to start using it more strategically to unlock the full potential of our city, which will in turn drive down costs in the future. By aligning our financial resources with clear development goals, I believe we can build a stronger, more prosperous Newberg.
15. If elected, how will you stay connected to your constituents and ensure their voices are heard on important issues?
If elected, I will stay connected to my constituents by actively attending events throughout the community and continuously seeking opportunities to engage with people who hold different ideas or values than my own. I believe it’s essential to be present and listen to diverse perspectives, as this helps me understand the full range of concerns and priorities in Newberg.
Over the years, my approach to leadership has been shaped by this willingness to listen with the intent to learn, not simply to be right. On the current council, I’ve had my perspective changed on multiple issues, which has made me a better, more representative leader. By keeping an open mind and engaging in honest, meaningful conversations, I can ensure that the voices of all residents are heard and considered in decision-making.
Yamhill County News would like to thank Councilor Elise Yarnell Hollamon for providing answers to our questions.
Tomorrow we will feature Councilor Hollamon’s opponent, Britta Manfield’s answers to our questions in their entirety.
Photo Credit: Yamhill County News File
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