It was a full house at Mayor Kate’s town hall on Saturday, with residents packing the room to take part in an open discussion about the city’s future. The conversation centered on three key topics: the city’s budget and its upcoming adoption process, opportunities for residents to serve on boards and commissions, an exciting announcement that the Wall That Heals, a traveling Vietnam Veterans Memorial replica, will visit Independence on September 18–21, 2025.
Beyond the planned agenda, residents seized the opportunity to ask a wide range of questions, gaining insight into how city government operates and how they can make an impact. One attendee summed up the event’s energy: “It’s great to hear directly from our mayor and city staff about what’s happening. I left with a much better understanding of how decisions are made and how I can get involved.”
Additionally, Mayor Kate announced that these town halls will now be held monthly, ensuring residents have ongoing opportunities to connect, ask questions, and stay informed.
If you missed this event, there are still plenty of ways to engage with Mayor Kate. She holds weekly office hours every Wednesday from 8:30–10:00 AM in the Ash Creek Conference Room at the Independence Civic Center. You can also reach her anytime at mayor@ci.independence.or.us.
Thank you to everyone who attended—please share this information with your friends and neighbors and help keep the conversation going!
