As 2019 kicks off the season of fresh starts, I am humbled to begin serving as your Tigard Mayor. I invite you to the January 8, 2019 inauguration ceremony for Councilor John Goodhouse, who will begin a second term, new City Councilor Liz Newton, and myself.
I want to thank my predecessor, Mayor John L. Cook, for being a great community leader and friend. He has made Tigard stronger by completing projects like developing the Hunziker Industrial Core, landing $5 million in federal, state and regional funding for the project. He also played a critical role in securing Tigard’s 35-year water supply that we now own through the Lake Oswego-Tigard Water Partnership.
As I’ve spent time this past year listening to residents, business leaders and community groups, it has become clear to me that four values are important to you.
Community – We must enhance our interactions with the community, ensuring that we have strong relationships with all of our neighborhoods, community groups, and businesses. You can expect more outreach events and opportunities to share your perspective with city leaders.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion – We will create a more inclusive workplace and improve how we serve our growing diverse community. Tigard must become a vibrant, diverse, and livable community that fosters innovation, enriches the lives of all its residents, and embraces intentional community engagement.
Service – We will build a culture of service ensuring city government is seen, both internally and externally, as a reliable partner and steward when running the city. Our leaders will be equipped with the skills and confidence to make decisions based on data and community desires.
Transparency and Accountability – We will aspire to continually improve the level of transparency we provide to the public about our operations and services. I plan to regularly share key performance targets and our city departmental results with all citizens.
I look forward to continuing the dialogue around these values and engaging with you about key 2019 initiatives – Southwest Corridor, Tigard Triangle, and financial stability.
Please join me for a Fireside Chat Listening Session on February 7, 6:30 p.m. at Symposium Coffee. You may also reach me directly at Jason@tigard-or.gov or on my cell phone at (503) 810-0269.
Thank you, Tigard; let’s get to work!
Jason Snider, Mayor
