Last week, the cities of Independence and Monmouth were awarded the Community Leadership Award at the Strategic Economic Development Corporation’s (SEDCOR) annual awards meeting at the Salem Convention Center.
Mayors John McArdle and Cec Koontz were met on stage with applause to commemorate the collaboration between the two cities. 
Part of the award statement read, “Attitude. That’s what it comes down to—a willingness to work toward a common goal and set aside personal interests. Independence and Monmouth believe in the power of partnership—not for ourselves, but for the betterment of our communities. Visit us soon and see for yourself why our cities are always stronger together.”
We are honored and thrilled to be met with such an appreciation. We look forward to cultivating a stronger Willamette Valley with our partners and colleagues, especially the city of Monmouth.
