Candidate Q&A: Forest Grove City Council candidates talk housing, charter changes and more

Three spots on the Forest Grove City Council are up for election this year.

Voters will choose from six candidates to fill the spots, and the three with the most votes will be elected to serve four-year terms representing the entire city.

With ballots set to mail out on Oct. 16 — just over two weeks before the Nov. 5 election — we asked the candidates for their thoughts on important issues affecting Forest Grove residents. Their responses are published in full below.

What skills or experiences have prepared you to serve on the Forest Grove City Council?

Angel Falconer: The best city councilors care deeply about their neighbors and are passionate about team building. Everywhere I’ve lived, I’ve served my community. As a volunteer, I’ve worked with community groups to rehab schools and houses. I’ve served meals and sorted food donations for our neighbors in need, built bikes for kids whose parents could not afford them, cleaned up rivers and parks and planted trees to increase our urban forest. In my previous roles as an appointed and elected official, I have built strong relationships throughout the region and state with people across many sectors to achieve real results for our neighbors. It’s those relationships and accomplishments that set me apart as a candidate in this race.

Wolanda Groombridge: As a dedicated executive director of a local organization, I am deeply committed to the well-being of our community. My journey has been guided by a passion for creating a safer, healthier and more inclusive Forest Grove. I am an active volunteer member of the city of Forest Grove Budget Committee, Forest Grove Senior & Community Center, West Tuality Habitat for Humanity and Charter Review Committee. These roles reflect my unwavering commitment to our community's betterment.

Donna Gustafson: Raised in poverty, I learned the value of hard work, the importance of giving back and resilience from my parents.

As a teen mother and single parent, I overcame challenges and developed resilience, a strong work ethic and an understanding of the diverse ways people navigate difficult circumstances.

Three decades in health care have honed my compassion and empathy, while my personal journey has fostered a deep commitment to gender equality and female empowerment. I have consistently challenged traditional gender roles and advocated for a more equitable society.

As a certified project manager, I have a decade of experience leading complex projects and making informed decisions. I am skilled at identifying stakeholders, leveraging expertise and navigating unfamiliar topics. This experience is invaluable in my role as a city councilor. My ability to admit mistakes and adapt to new information is a valuable leadership asset. This flexibility fosters trust, learning and growth within a team.

Jordan Miller: With a background as a former firefighter, business owner and local real estate broker, I’ve developed the skills necessary to tackle Forest Grove’s most pressing challenges, including affordable housing, responsible growth and community involvement. My real estate expertise, recognized in the National Association of Realtors' “30 Under 30” in 2019, equips me to address housing affordability by advocating for innovative solutions, such as new construction designed for aging and downsizing homeowners, which can open up more housing options for younger families.

My work in the community, coupled with completing Harvard’s Master Class in Negotiation, gives me the ability to foster strong relationships and drive responsible, as well as meaningful, progress. I believe in improving our school system, supporting local businesses and making Forest Grove a connected, thriving community where everyone has a voice. Serving on city council will allow me to bring fresh ideas and long-term solutions that benefit both current and future generations of Forest Grove residents.

Brian Schimmel: My career in both the private and public sectors has uniquely equipped me to serve on the Forest Grove City Council. With 19 years at Intel in mergers and acquisitions, supply chain and project management at an international level, followed by a decade of public service, I’ve gained expertise in navigating complex systems, managing capital projects and fostering cross-sector collaboration. I’ve directed millions in federal, state and regional investments into local programs, scaling housing and food security efforts during the pandemic.

Prior government experience includes leadership of a Western Washington County Emergency Taskforce, Forest Grove Sustainability Commission, Forest Grove firefighter support volunteer, Washington County Continuum of Care Board and Oregon Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). Additionally, my long-standing relationships with government and nonprofit leaders help me bridge gaps between sectors. I'm committed to building a more resilient and inclusive Forest Grove by applying this blend of experience to local governance.

Peter Truax: I have 22 years of history on city council, nine as a councilor (of which I spent five as council president) and 13 as mayor. I served at a time of flux for the city and country. We built a new community auditorium, purchased land which was later developed into downtown housing and retail space, purchased other land for an eastside park and played a role in reimagining regional transportation efficiency and safety with the construction of roundabouts on Highway 47 and the completion of David Hill Road between Thatcher and Highway 47.

What do you consider to be the biggest issues facing Forest Grove residents currently, and how do you think those issues should be addressed?

Falconer: I believe Forest Grove is well positioned for a very bright future. The city is growing, and that presents real opportunities, as long as the city embraces them and works with the community and its jurisdictional partners to build positive change. Working collaboratively with state agencies, the county, Metro, local community organizations and nonprofits, rather than in isolation or even at odds with them, we can achieve more for our residents and small businesses than we can alone. I think it’s critical that this next council works hard to build or restore relationships that have been strained or weakened in the past.

Groombridge: Mental health: I believe in expanding mental health services to provide a safe environment for all residents. This includes implementing robust crisis interventions, secure funding and developing programs to train and support caregivers of those living with mental illness. I am dedicated to establishing support programs for families dealing with, or caring for, loved ones with mental health challenges.

Housing: Affordable housing is a pressing issue. With the increasing homeless population, we must increase funding and simplify the application process for housing assistance. By streamlining the process, we can ensure that more people receive the help they need in a timely manner.

Gustafson: Forest Grove's rapid growth has strained our infrastructure and challenged our livability. The influx of new residents, primarily from increased apartment and housing development, has significantly impacted traffic and other community resources.

To maintain our city's unique charm and quality of life, we must prioritize strategic development and invest in the necessary infrastructure. This includes ensuring adequate transportation options, preserving green spaces and supporting local businesses. By focusing on these foundational elements, we can not only accommodate our growing population, but also enhance the overall experience for all residents.

Miller: The biggest issues facing Forest Grove residents include the impact of state legislation on our community. Decisions made at the state level often fail to account for the unique needs and opportunities of Forest Grove, limiting the ability of local voters to shape our future. Another pressing issue is the potential purchase of the discontinued railroad track by Washington County, which could bring camping ordinances back into our city, affecting homeowner safety and placing additional strain on emergency services.

We must also restore Forest Grove’s sense of community by revitalizing public spaces and events in an economically advantageous way. Increased access to amenities like open pool hours, public fields and local events fosters a stronger community bond. When residents feel connected to their town, they’re more likely to support local businesses, engage in community leadership and raise their families in a safe environment. Addressing these issues requires a focus on local control and community-building initiatives.

Schimmel: Pressing issues facing Forest Grove residents include housing affordability, financial security and new development. Rising housing costs are pushing families out, while economic growth hasn't kept pace to provide living wages and job opportunities. Development policies — both economic development and population growth — present challenges for resident quality of life. We need to better align our “full-service city” for effective growth and emerging needs.

To address housing affordability, I support expanding affordable housing options and incentivizing developments that meet the needs of all income levels. Economic development can be fostered through strategic partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits and educational institutions to create new jobs and invest in workforce training. Modernizing the development code, with attention to housing and industry developments, should be prioritized to ensure residential interests, compliance to laws, and long-term resilience. By working together with local leaders and residents, we can create a more inclusive, prosperous Forest Grove for everyone.

Truax: We obviously need to continue our civic services at the level commensurate with our city’s character and, dare I say it, charm. Our police, fire and public works need the continued support to grow and develop as the city grows and develops. We need to continue our involvement with Washington County and Metro in dealing with the homeless. Not only do we need to put roofs overhead, but we also need to find jobs and, even more importantly, find ways to enable those in that whirlpool of poverty and homelessness to regain dignity and purpose. We do that by building an effective case for the sharing of regional funding for western Washington County and Forest Grove that will help people get back what they have lost. We also need to honor what makes Forest Grove special. By that I mean the natural beauty of northwest Oregon, and the artistic contributions of those artists peculiar to northwest Oregon. A city is much greater than the sum of its parts, and we should work to celebrate that local uniqueness.

What are your top funding priorities?

Falconer: Housing affordability and choice. I have been a champion for housing affordability at the state and local levels. I have many years of experience working alongside advocates, providers and policymakers to create policies and programs that address housing choice and affordability for all. If we want to remain a place where longtime residents can afford to live, while also welcoming new families as our neighbors, our housing stock must include a mix of options to fit all our residents’ needs, at every stage of life. The zoning rules we have in place now set the stage for what kind of a future we want to build decades in the future. I’d like to be able to age in place and have the option to stay in my community, and I’d also like Forest Grove to be a place where my daughter might want to raise her family one day, too.

Groombridge:

A. Mental healthB. Affordable housingC. Police & fire department

Gustafson: Post-COVID, our community has undergone a significant transformation. As we seek to rebuild our sense of belonging, it's imperative to address the underlying factors contributing to this shift. One pressing need is the expansion of our recreational facilities. Our growing community demands a modern aquatic center to meet the needs of residents of all ages.

Downtown revitalization is another key area. By supporting small businesses and creating a vibrant atmosphere, we can foster a "play where you live" mentality.

Finally, we must bridge the digital divide. Ensuring access to reliable internet services is essential for both education and economic prosperity. By prioritizing broadband expansion, cybersecurity and digital literacy, we can create a more connected and equitable community.

Miller: My top funding priority is making sure Forest Grove uses its taxpayer dollars wisely and in ways that actually help our community. We shouldn’t always be looking for more taxes or fees from residents. Instead, we should partner with local schools, Pacific University and community members to update our parks and public spaces in a cost-effective way, instead of paying outside businesses tens of thousands of dollars.

It’s also important to walk hand in hand with our emergency services and utilities departments to make sure we understand their financial needs and where there’s waste. By doing this, we can shuffle the budget around to make sure money is going where it’s needed most, without constantly asking for more from our residents. This approach makes sense, saves money and keeps everything local!

Schimmel: My top funding priorities for Forest Grove focus on housing, infrastructure and community services. First, I will pursue housing policies that steer public and private investments into affordable housing, ensuring that funding goes toward creating and preserving homes for low- and middle-income families. Addressing housing affordability is essential to keeping our community thriving — a choice to live and work here.

Second, I will advocate for infrastructure improvements, including sustainable transportation, green energy initiatives and upgraded public utilities to support long-term growth and environmental resilience.

Lastly, I will focus on funding vital community services like public safety, health resources and youth and senior recreation. Strengthening these services not only improves quality of life, but also fosters a safer, more connected community. By focusing on these key areas, we can create a more equitable, resilient and vibrant future for all Forest Grove residents.

Truax: I see a balanced budget that meets a growing city. Now that the platitudes are out of the way, I would support the traditional services a city provides. I want a police department and a fire service that respond when we dial 911. I want water when you turn on the faucet and electric service that works when you flip the light switch. And I celebrate those in 1895 that had the wisdom to develop Forest Grove Light and Power in such a way that we are paying roughly 60% for electricity as those around us. At the same time, we need a flexible budget that will be able to address those needs we may not recognize today, but could become front and center tomorrow. We have, and need to continue, that budget process that allows for support for continuing needs, while, at the same time, has room for the unpredictable future.

What infrastructure needs do you think should be prioritized in Forest Grove?

Falconer: Safe and accessible transportation options for all. As a volunteer, and then as an elected official, I led the creation of a program to create safe routes to school for students and ADA-compliant connections to transit and services, while also ensuring continued maintenance of local streets. There are exciting opportunities to work with regional partners to enhance connections between our communities, but we also have some work to do here locally. I have experience planning for both regional and local transportation infrastructure, and I’d like to start a conversation with the community about filling the gaps in our existing network.

Groombridge:

Housing — funding opportunitiesHOME Investment Partnerships Program: A block grant program that provides funds to state and local governments to create affordable housing for low-income households.HUD discretionary funding programs: A program that awards funding through over 20 grant programs to support HUD initiatives.Low-Income Housing Tax CreditsTenant-based rental assistance programsProject-based rental assistance programsPublic housing operating fund and capital fundChoice NeighborhoodsCommunity Development Block GrantsNational Housing Trust Fund

Gustafson: Sidewalks and bike lanes are essential for thriving communities. They ensure safety, promote health, boost economies and foster equity. By investing in sidewalks and bike lanes, we invest in the wellbeing of our residents and the future of our neighborhoods. This includes ensuring new developments have adequate street space, sidewalks, bike lanes and road access.

Effective traffic and transportation control is crucial for a safe, efficient and sustainable environment. By investing in this area, we can improve quality of life and attract economic development. Addressing traffic concerns, including safety risks posed by current traffic flow and sidewalks, is essential.

We must continue to lobby for federal funding to support our community's infrastructure needs. As the impacts of climate change intensify, we must prioritize environmental sustainability. This requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both immediate challenges and long-term needs. This commitment aligns with my broader priorities for infrastructure and funding, as it recognizes the interconnectedness of these areas.

Miller: For Forest Grove, water infrastructure should be a top priority. Water is essential, and we need clear guidelines on how it’s distributed, especially to businesses, while protecting our overall supply. Our partnership with the Bonneville Power Authority is another big one. We need to ensure stable power costs for residents while planning 5-10 years ahead to handle future electricity demands. This will help us integrate businesses with high power needs without burdening residents.

Traffic management is also key to a good quality of life. The Office for National Statistics conducted a study in 2016 that found maximum happiness is achieved when commute times are 15 minutes or less. While we might not be able to achieve that for everyone, especially commuting to Hillsboro, we should be mindful when new developments push commuting times over 30 minutes. Keeping traffic flow efficient will make life easier and safer for everyone in Forest Grove.

Schimmel: Forest Grove’s infrastructure priorities should focus on sustainable growth, climate resilience and public safety. First, we need to invest in modernizing transportation networks, including safer roads, improving public transit options and enhancing pedestrian walkways to support a more accessible, connected city.

Second, upgrading electrical, stormwater and sewer systems to handle future growth and climate challenges are essential to prevent outages, flooding and protect the environment. Implementing sustainable infrastructure can further enhance our environment and better equip the city for development.

Finally, I would advocate for the construction of a new police station to better serve the growing population and improve public safety. A modern facility will ensure our officers have the resources and space needed to effectively protect and engage with the community. By addressing these key areas, Forest Grove can build an infrastructure that supports economic growth, environmental stewardship and public safety for all residents.

Truax: My understanding is that we are already working on plans to provide water service to higher elevations in the city. We do this to meet the housing that may go into those higher elevations, but also to make water service redundant and less prone to problems for existing homes and businesses. Forest Grove is a growing city, and we can’t move in and pull up the metaphorical drawbridge behind us to keep others out. So traditional infrastructure, such as water, electricity, sewer and roads will have to be planned not only by the city, but by developers. In addition, there is the need for what I might call intellectual infrastructure. Our library needs to meet the expanding need here on the metropolitan edge. Our parks need to provide for exercise, relaxation and continuing awareness of the bounty of nature. And in this day and age of information glut, the city needs to continue its role in providing accurate information about what the city is doing and what it plans to do.

Forest Grove voters will consider a city charter amendment this November. Do you support or oppose the measure? Why or why not?

Falconer: I will vote yes on the charter amendment. But to be clear, I believe bringing this ballot initiative was a waste of city time and resources, and, despite Mayor Wenzl’s best efforts, it represents a failure of our city leaders to act on the wishes of the community. Residents expressed a clear desire for more, including term limits for the mayor and city councilors, and the things the community wanted on the ballot in November are not included.

Groombridge: I support the measure.

Gustafson: The proposed changes to the city charter are the result of careful review and discussion by the charter committee and council.

One change, which was subject to intense debate, is the redefinition of the mayor’s role from "political head" to "primary representative of the Council for the City." This change was necessary to prevent an imbalance of power and uphold democratic principles. This change was vehemently opposed by Mayor Wenzl. As Council President Rippe stated, “the head of the city government is the council, not the mayor.”

Respectful debate is essential, and disagreement should not hinder our ability to work together for the city's betterment. My decision to support this change may have alienated the mayor, but it was crucial to protect our democratic process. I will not be intimidated or pressured into compromising my principles. I am committed to standing up for what is right, even if it means facing opposition.

I am supportive of what we have proposed, which the full council supports. Now it is up to the people to decide.

Miller: Regarding the city charter amendment, I’m generally supportive of the proposed changes. The revision of the mayoral position's verbiage seems straightforward and doesn’t impact residents significantly, so I have no issues there. Updating the ability to require a councilor to vacate their seat if they accumulate misdemeanors or felonies is a step in the right direction — elected officials should be held to high standards.

I do believe the language around filling council vacancies lacks detail, but maintaining a balanced council is important. I support changing the term “Disabled” to “Physical or Mental Impairment” as long as the standards don’t change, keeping council members accessible to the public.

I also feel strongly that the city manager should reside within Forest Grove. If it becomes impossible to fill the position locally, I’d support a two-thirds vote, but every effort should be made to keep this role local. Lastly, I support amending office start dates if terms remain fair.

Schimmel: I oppose the city charter amendment being referred to the ballot. The proposed measure neglects the input of survey respondents on important issues like term limits — a community priority. Changes to the charter should address how our government functions and only be made when absolutely necessary with broad public support. The current charter provides flexibility to address challenges, and alternative solutions — like passing ordinances — can tackle specific issues without permanently altering our city’s foundation. We should prioritize improving existing processes and community engagement, rather than enacting changes that may not fully reflect the voices of our diverse population.

Truax: I am not enthusiastic about the charter vote. The language that would change the description of the mayor’s responsibilities is, to me, a step sideways and ignores reality. The mayor is the political head of the city, and to say otherwise is to dodge the issue. Local politics is real and important in nonpartisan races and issues. To persuade or to argue a point of view in any arena — be it at city council, or the state legislature, or in congress — is to engage in politics. Call it what it is. I have not made up my mind, but I am leaning toward filling in the “no” oval on this issue when I get my mail ballot.

What is something that people might not know about you?

Falconer: My husband, Ian Falconer, is the head football coach at Pacific University, where he has worked since the rebirth of the Boxer football program in 2010. We purchased our home here a couple years ago and have enjoyed becoming even more involved in the community.

Groombridge: Married to my husband, Bill, of 34 years, served in the Navy for 13 years and my son, Brandon, is a professional online gamer (Apex Legends).

Gustafson: I am a huge supporter of the arts. As an accomplished singer, songwriter and performer who was trained in the art of opera, I value what the arts can bring to the individual and society. I have had the privilege of performing on stage with artists from Sweden, Finland, France, Germany, Canada and various other countries. The growth and enrichment for me and the enrichment I can bring to others has been impactful in my life. Forest Grove has a vast number and variety of artists, as was demonstrated during the new Festival of the Arts sponsored and hosted by the Public Arts Commission. This is an area I feel we should nurture and support as a city which, in turn, will strengthen our goals of improved livability.

Miller: One thing people might not know about me is that I graduated high school a year early and played tennis at a state level for Forest Grove High School. My family has deep roots in the community — we’ve been in Forest Grove since 1932 after escaping the Dust Bowl. I’m a third-generation Forest Grover, and I feel a strong connection to this town. I have a beautiful wife and an amazing 3-year-old daughter who both inspire me every day.

In 2019, I was honored to be named one of the top “30 Under 30” in the nation for real estate, though I’m no longer under 30! I also completed a negotiation course at Harvard that focused on creating win-win solutions through multiparty negotiations. I’m passionate about bringing this experience and community commitment to my role in city council.

Schimmel: People might not know that my family is building a custom accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in our backyard to contribute to deeply affordable housing in Forest Grove. Our priority is to support our young adult daughter, and eventually rent the unit to Pacific University students. This project reflects my deep commitment to addressing housing needs in our community.

Alongside this, leadership of a COVID-19-era emergency taskforce steered nearly $15 million in new investment (federal, state and regional funds) into our local community, scaling food pantries and housing services programs to address increased housing and food insecurity. These service providers thrive even now.

Forest Grove has been central to my family’s life, and I’m deeply invested in its future. My aspiration is to bolster a healthy, resilient and inclusive city, and I am more than prepared to serve this community on the city council.

Truax: I have lived in Forest Grove for the last 61 years, ever since I came to Pacific University as a fuzzy-cheeked freshman in 1964. I met my wife at Pacific and we have been happily(?) married for 57 years. Our oldest son, James, teaches in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he has been for the past 20 years, and is raising our two granddaughters, Erin and Sydney. John, our youngest son, lives and works in Portland for a housing construction company. I occasionally golf (not very well) and spend time following the Trail Blazers, Seahawks, Huskies and Mariners. So, like Cubs fans, I have learned to live with more than a modicum of disappointment. I also get solace and relaxation by doing the public address announcing for Pacific University football. And I hate cilantro and eggplant.