By Garrett Christensen on Wednesday, October 18th, 2023 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
WALLOWA COUNTY – Two long time Wallowa County residents, Lisa Collier, and Steve Rogers, have both announced their plans to run for the Wallowa County Board of Commissioners. Locals may also know them as the mayor of the city of Joseph and the Vice President of the Chief Joseph Days Rodeo respectively. For residents still curious about their options for county leadership, both candidates provided Elkhorn Media Group with letters announcing their candidacy and giving more information about themselves. First up is Lisa Collier. Her letter was originally posted to her campaign Facebook page:
“I want to be your next Wallowa County Commissioner!
I have fallen in love with serving the citizens of Joseph the last several years, first as a Counselor and currently as Mayor. This work has also grown into service opportunities at the county level on various committees. I have made meaningful connections and have realized an untapped passion within myself for civil service and for doing my part to further the success of our special communities. I absolutely love serving the people of Wallowa County! As your next Wallowa County Commissioner, my commitment to servant leadership will remain unwavering. I will tirelessly advocate for the interests and well-being of our citizens, ensuring that our county continues to thrive as a place we are proud to call home.
My husband of 25 years and I have lived in Wallowa County most of our lives. We have seven incredible children. As a long time citizen of this community that has a proven track record of effective leadership, I am ready to take on the responsibilities of County Commissioner. Together, we can overcome challenges and seize opportunities, continuing to keep our county an amazing place to live, work, and raise families.
Furthermore, my experience working closely with youth of all ages and abilities, as well as serving families of all socioeconomics and lifestyles, including youth and families of trauma, has provided me with valuable insights into the diverse needs of our community. I am dedicated, dependable, and unafraid of the challenges that lie ahead. I am committed to rolling up my sleeves, engaging in the hard work, and facilitating those difficult but necessary conversations.
Past Service Positions:
Teacher (Pk-12th)
Coach of multiple youth sports
Volunteer of many community events, benefits and functions
City Council Member-City of Joseph, OR
Joseph Education Foundation
Advisor-Youth Leadership Clubs
Oregon DHS Foster Parent
And, much more!
Current Service Positions:
Teacher (Early Childhood Special Education)
Mayor-City of Joseph, OR
Budget Committee-City of Joseph
Wallowa County Budget Committee
Wallowa County Roads District
Enterprise Education Foundation
Soroptimist International of Wallowa County
Oregon FCCLA
And, much more!
I am heavily involved and present in our community, and have been for years! That will never change. I care deeply about the people of Wallowa County, and I truly feel I can represent them well, and in a manner that will make them proud.
Together, With your support, I am confident that I can continue to make a positive impact in our community, fostering a county where unity, honesty, transparency, diversity, and the voices of the people are at the forefront of decision making. Together, we can build a brighter future for Wallowa County while holding on to its rich history, culture and values.
Warmly,
Lisa M Collier”
Inquiries for Collier can be directed to 2lisacollier@gmail.com
Next up is Steve Rogers. His letter was originally dispatched from the Chief Joseph Days Rodeo:
“Steve Rogers announces his run for Wallowa County Commissioner in the 2024 election.
Steve Rogers grew up in La Grande, OR, and followed his passion for law enforcement and public service to Wallowa County in 1995 to be a Sheriff’s Deputy. He was named Wallowa County Sheriff in 2012 and then retired in 2020. Steve has dedicated his life to public service. He started volunteering for the Union County Search and Rescue Team when he was 16 years of age. He became a volunteer board member for Chief Joseph Days Rodeo in 1995 and a Shotokan instructor for the last 42 years.
Steve Rogers is running for Wallowa County Commissioner. His goal is to create clear and effective communication between the residents of this county and the commissioners. He wants to support private landowners with the ongoing changes in government because private landowners are the heart of this county and this country.
Having a career in law enforcement, Steve is passionate about serving and protecting his community. Steve has volunteered most of his life, plus he has many years of employee and budget management, so when it comes to handling important issues in the county Steve has the knowledge to accomplish important goals. With over 25 years of involvement with Wallowa County and its local government, he will always have the county’s best interest at heart.
“Wallowa County is home. I moved here and made it my home. I have invested my life in this community, whether I am volunteering with Chief Joseph Days or county management. I will continue to volunteer my time to help this community as long as I can.”
For questions, please reach out to Steve Rogers at 541-432-8107 or steverogers341@gmail.com”