Milton-Freewater holds its first State of the City address

By Dan Thesman on Monday, February 23rd, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

MILTON-FREEWATER – Milton and Freewater joined together to become a single city 75 years ago. Mayor Mike Odman wanted to do something new to celebrate that historic event and plan for the future. He’s hosting the inaugural State of the City address tomorrow (Tuesday) at 6 p.m.

“It was just a great opportunity to launch something new for our community and to illustrate what our community is about, where we’re headed, what our challenges and opportunities are, and hopefully just set a new tradition for our community,” he said.

The meeting will include the many challenges the city is facing including filling administrative positions and upgrading utility systems. City department heads will be on hand afterward and community feedback will be welcome. Light refreshments are planned.

The free event is in the McLoughlin High School auditorium at 120 S. Main St.

Editor’s note: Mayor Odman was a guest on the KUMA Coffee Hour Friday, Feb. 20. To listen to the podcast, go to Coffee Hour Podcast clips – Omny.fm.

Photo of Mayor Mike Odman from the city of Milton-Freewater