Nov. 5 General Election candidates: Mayor, Cascade Locks

I love Cascade Locks and have many concerns over current condition of the city.

What are your qualifications for this position? 

More than eight years attending city council meetings, two years as city councilor and four years on the city budget committee.

What are the top three issues facing the city? 

1. In December 2024, we will officially be three financial audits behind. And council continues to spend money on things that are not in the budget. This council (two years) has spent more than $150,000 on a contracted finance person and still has not produced an audit.

2. Public safety. The mention of cutting police and cutting fire and EMS to save money is reckless.

3. Community being divided. This council, I feel has really worked hard to divide this town. Most surveys and stuff had to be edited not to say old/new residents because our survey found this is a glaring problem about our town.

Finish this statement: In five years, my vision for the City of Cascade Locks is …

For all residents and businesses to feel secure with public safety, i.e., police, fire and EMS.

Also, have an actual emergency evacuation plan, and that all residents and businesses have knowledge of the plan.

Have Cascade Locks not only be a great place to visit, but the best place to live. Increase in community events.

Pete Happy

Why are you running?

I’m running for mayor because Cascade Locks is at a pivotal moment. We need to move forward in a way that unites our community, strengthens our city’s finances, and revitalizes our downtown. I believe I have the experience, commitment, and vision to lead us toward a future where every resident feels heard, and our city thrives.

What are your qualifications for this position?

I have served as the city council president for the past two years, where I’ve worked alongside council members and city staff to address key issues facing our community. As a business owner and U.S. Navy veteran, I bring strong leadership skills, financial management experience and a focus on problem-solving. I also have a background in operations management, which has prepared me to tackle complex challenges. My passion for serving Cascade Locks and my commitment to fostering a united, financially sound city make me well-suited to serve as your mayor.

What are the top three issues facing the city?

The top three issues are:

1. Financial Stability: We need to hire a dedicated finance officer, complete our overdue audits, and create a balanced budget that reflects our city’s current and future needs.

2. Downtown Revitalization: With the sewer system upgrade completed, we must now attract businesses, support local entrepreneurs, and enhance our infrastructure to create a vibrant and lively downtown.

3. Community Unity: We need to foster open, respectful dialogue to rebuild trust, allowing all residents to feel heard and involved in shaping Cascade Locks’ future.

What is an innovation you would recommend the city try?

I recommend investing in a new city website with communication tools that are accessible to everyone, including residents without internet access. The website would serve as a central source for information, while implementing an automated phone line and regular mailers would ensure updates reach all residents. Additionally, an online public engagement platform can host virtual town halls and gather input on key issues. This combination of tools would enhance transparency, improve community involvement and ensure that every voice in Cascade Locks can contribute to shaping our city’s future.

Finish this statement: In five years, my vision for the City of Cascade Locks is …

In five years, my vision for Cascade Locks is a united, financially secure community with a vibrant downtown that serves as a focal point for businesses, families, and visitors. I see a city where residents are actively involved, feel heard and have a stake in our progress. By focusing on strategic planning, fiscal responsibility and community engagement, Cascade Locks will be a place of opportunity, growth and pride, where people choose to live, work and build their futures.