OPINION: Wenzl endorses Falconer, Schimmel, Truax for Forest Grove council

I’m proud to support Angel Falconer, Brian Schimmel and Peter Truax in their bid for the three open seats on the Forest Grove City Council. As our city continues to grow, we face significant challenges that require capable leadership and sound public policy. Each of these candidates brings valuable skills and relationships to help guide us forward.

Angel Falconer, a two-term councilor from Milwaukie, is renowned for her work in addressing housing affordability and livability by fostering regional partnerships and creating impactful policies. She’s known for establishing Milwaukie’s first Climate Action Plan and has a proven record in supporting families through safe routes to schools and accessible services.

Brian Schimmel has a long history of bringing people together to solve community challenges. I first met him 10 years ago when he worked to secure winter shelters in Forest Grove. More recently, during the pandemic, Brian led the creation of an antipoverty task force that mobilized over $14 million to fight housing and food insecurity.

Peter Truax, who has served Forest Grove for over 50 years, continues to be a dedicated public servant. His leadership as mayor helped advance livability, and he was instrumental in creating our mural policy and Grovelink bus system.

As Forest Grove faces critical issues, I urge you to vote for Falconer, Schimmel and Truax, who bring the vision and experience we need.

Malynda Wenzl is the mayor of Forest Grove.