Wallowa County Commissioners Appoint Mike Hayward to Fill Vacant Seat Left by Commissioner Susan Roberts
By Tracy Christopher on Tuesday, August 5th, 2025 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
ENTERPRISE- Monday afternoon at the Wallowa County Courthouse, the Wallowa County Board of Commissioners voted to appoint former longtime Wallowa County Commissioner Mike Hayward to fill the vacancy left by the passing of Commissioner Susan Roberts.
County Counsel Joanna Lyons-Antley laid out the board’s legal options for filling the vacant seat, including opening up a public application process or directly appointing a qualified candidate. She acknowledged the outpouring of interest from community members, but emphasized the board’s broad authority and discretion. “State law allows you to either create a process or directly appoint a candidate,” Lyons-Antley explained. “And there is one individual who exceeds all expectations — someone with nearly two decades of experience and deep knowledge of county government: Mike Hayward.”
Hayward previously served as Wallowa County Commissioner for 19 years, working closely with Roberts during her time in office. Commissioners and staff alike spoke to his institutional knowledge and the unique value he brings in a time of transition. “Susan always said Mike taught her everything she knew,” Commissioner Lisa Collier noted. “There’s a lot she took with her, and Mike can help bring some of that back.”, Commissioner John Hillock added.
While acknowledging prior statements that a formal application process would be opened, commissioners expressed urgency in appointing someone with experience, given the county’s current workload and the complexity of ongoing issues such as the Forest Plan.
“There wasn’t a single candidate who came forward that wouldn’t have done a good job,” Commissioner Lisa Collier added. “But right now, the county needs experience. Mike has it. And the best part is, he’s not interested in serving long-term — he just wants to help us bridge the gap.”
The motion to appoint Hayward was made and seconded, with the vote passing unanimously.
Hayward will serve in Position 3 through December 31, 2026.
In closing, commissioners encouraged all community members who have expressed interest in public service to run in the next election. “We’re going to need good people,” Commissioner Collier said. “Experience and history are too valuable to let go right now, but so is our future. Please run.”
