Running for Mayor of Shady Cove: An Unexpected Path to Service
Some of you have heard that I am running for mayor of Shady Cove, Oregon. The election is next week, and I am certain to win as I am running unopposed.
This certainly has not been a goal in my life, nor was it ever on my bucket list of things I wanted to leave as part of my legacy. As most of you know, life can ebb and flow in unpredictable ways.
I bring years of leadership experience—from coaching high school basketball, serving on a church leadership board for over 20 years, owning and managing several real estate offices, to founding and serving as president of a non-profit dedicated to helping female victims of human trafficking. Politics was never on my radar. Yet here I am. Come January, I will be sworn in as mayor of a town of about 3,000 people nestled along the banks of the Rogue River, just 45 minutes from Crater Lake National Park.
My desire is simple: to serve the people of this unique Southern Oregon community. Shady Cove has faced some struggles in recent years, along with differences of opinion about how best to govern our small town. I know I do not have all the answers. But I am confident that—just like in real estate—the answers are out there if we are willing to listen.
I firmly believe the challenges Shady Cove faces can be solved by the people of this great community, provided leadership is willing to listen, remain open to good ideas, and foster genuine dialogue.
I have been asked whether I am retiring from real estate. My answer is absolutely not. I love serving people and I love this industry. The position of mayor is a part-time, volunteer role—one that can be handled much the same way I founded and ran a non-profit for over 10 years… While still coaching basketball, I might add.
If you live in or around Shady Cove, I encourage you to get involved in the community. Take some of your free time and serve others. Many opportunities will be coming available—simply reach out and ask.
I look forward to meeting many more of you in the community.
