NEWBERG, Ore. — During a special session on July 17, newly elected Chehalem Parks and Recreation District board members Nick Konen and Brandon Slyter took their seats for the first time, joining returning members Matt Smith, Jason Fields, and Jim McMaster. The board elected new officers and reviewed the district’s strategic plan.
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The board unanimously elected McMaster as board president and Konen as vice president. Former president Smith was elected to serve as treasurer.
Board members were also appointed to various internal committees. CPRD Superintendent Clay Downing said these roles provide board representation in district operations and help maintain clear communication between the board and staff.
During the meeting, Fields raised a question about whether CPRD board members have a right to seats on the Chehalem Cultural Center board, citing the center’s original bylaws. While CPRD owns the center’s building, the Chehalem Cultural Center operates as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit. After brief discussion, McMaster moved to table the matter until more information could be gathered about the center’s structure. Representatives from CCC are scheduled to present to the CPRD Board in August.
The board then reviewed bids for several capital improvement projects, including work at Sanders Park in Dundee and the Jaquith Pickleball Courts. In each case, the board approved the lowest bid.
Fields expressed concern about the quality of work from the lowest bidders and emphasized the need for high standards. Parks and Facilities Manager Casey Creighton said contractors are required to meet specific guidelines. McMaster asked staff to follow up with references to confirm the contractors’ relevant experience.
The board also reviewed its current strategic priorities, policies, and capital improvement projects. Downing said the session provided an overview to help align board actions with community expectations, and noted that additional work sessions may follow.
A recording of the full special session is available on the district’s YouTube channel.
