Ron Zilli

Candidate for Astoria City Council, Ward 3.

I grew up in a working-class family in Phoenix, Arizona. Following high school I enlisted in the Navy and later attended college earning a degree in forest management. I moved to Astoria in 1994 when I accepted a permanent position with the Oregon Department of Forestry. I continued serving in the Navy Reserve after separating from active duty. I am a husband and father with one 13-year-old daughter who attends Astoria Middle School. I enjoy spending time with my family out and about in our local community.

I have dedicated my entire adult life to public service. This includes 25 years serving Oregonians as a member of the State Forestry Department and 30 years of service in the U.S. Navy and Navy Reserve. Working in state government has given me experience in public policy development and implementation, developing and tracking budgets and understanding the importance of public involvement in decision-making — all relevant experiences to serving as your city councilor for Ward 3.

I choose to run for public office because our democratic process is successful only if a diversity of people participate. I am choosing to participate because I am at a point in my life where I have enough experience and perspective from my careers in state government and the military to make wise choices to sustain and improve our city and its communities.

Whatever the outcome of this election there is going to be significant change on the City Council. At a minimum there will be a new mayor and two councilors — possibly three. Collectively the candidates for all of these positions have limited government and public service experience. As the Ward 3 councilor I will bring a valuable diversity of local, statewide and international experience to the position.

In addition to experience managing public processes, I will bring valuable leadership experience to the City Council from my years of service and overseas deployments as a senior enlisted leader (master chief petty officer) in the Navy Reserve.

I will bring a fresh and independent viewpoint to the City Council that will ensure full transparency and accountability in the work of the city. I will be accessible to the citizens and business owners in Ward 3. Knowing what’s on your mind and how you are affected by decisions is very important to me. I can only be successful and make a difference if I know what you are thinking and what you need to thrive in Astoria.

I will strive for fairness in decision-making by studying the issues and seeking to understand the diverse views of parties affected by the issue before coming to a decision that is best for the community as a whole.

I will work to complete the development code amendments for the Urban Core of the Riverfront Vision Plan so we have a forward-looking policy framework in place to guide future riverfront development.

I will work to address “the hole” at Heritage Square and get that portion of the city contributing to our economy and livability.

We all know that affordable housing is scarce, and it’s a regional and not just a local issue. To make progress on this issue I will work on a comprehensive approach that includes coordination with agencies and neighboring local governments. I will advocate for local development that addresses this need and also strives to fit in with Astoria’s architectural heritage and natural beauty.

As an experienced professional forester I can provide leadership to the City Council on forest management decisions relating to the Astoria Bear Creek watershed. I am also informed on many local and regional natural resource and wildlife issues that may intersect with city business.

I will work to protect our natural, scenic, cultural, and historical resources to maintain our quality of life.

I know that everyone is not going to agree on issues, but as your city councilor I will always conduct city business with civility and respect.

I will always do my best to represent your interests and be your voice from Ward 3.