NEWBERG, Ore. — Newberg Mayor Bill Rosacker has been appointed to a federal advisory committee that counsels the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on environmental issues affecting local governments, according to an EPA press release issued Aug. 12.
“It was a big surprise,” Rosacker said. “I didn’t really realize what it was or that it was a big deal when they told me. Then I realized I would be working with the actual EPA.”
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Chartered in 1993 under the Federal Advisory Committee Act, the Local Government Advisory Committee is composed of elected and appointed officials from local, state, tribal, and territorial governments who provide independent policy advice to the EPA administrator on issues affecting local governments, according to the release. Rosacker is one of 22 members named to the newly revitalized committee, including 13 new appointees; the remaining nine are reappointments or continuing members.
Committee members are chosen through a nomination process. Rosacker said he is not sure who nominated him, though he has visited the capital twice in two years — once for President Donald Trump’s inauguration on Jan. 20, 2025, and again in January 2026 to advocate for the Newberg-Dundee Bypass. During those visits, he said he’s met with government officials from several different agencies.
The committee will be led by Clermont County, Ohio, Commissioner David Painter.
“The synergies between environmental regulations and ensuring responsible performance in future projects are essential to moving America forward while protecting our environment for future generations,” Painter said. “This is our number one goal. The combined expertise of these members, serving in an advisory role, will result in practical advice that the Federal EPA can count on to guide its future.”
According to the release, the panel will begin its new charter with a discussion of challenges local governments face in siting and developing AI infrastructure and data centers. That discussion is scheduled for a virtual public meeting in September, notice of which will be published in the Federal Register.
Rosacker is one of two Oregon officials named to the panel, joining Crook County Commissioner Seth Crawford, also a new appointee. Rosacker said his first priority is discussing wildfires in the Northwest and the impact they have on the state and local municipalities not only through destruction but also through air quality.
“It’s an honor,” Rosacker said. “I do take it very seriously, and I appreciate the opportunity to contribute at the federal level for our town.”
Rosacker was elected as Newberg Mayor in 2022. Should Rosacker be unable to serve in the position in the future, he said Newberg City Manager Will Worthey will serve in his stead.
