Mayor Kate Schwarzler joined U.S. Senator Ron Wyden at his Polk County Town Hall at Western Oregon University, where she offered opening remarks and had the honor of leading the Pledge of Allegiance to begin the event.

The town hall brought community members together to hear directly from Senator Wyden about federal issues impacting Polk County and communities like Independence. It provided an opportunity for residents to ask questions, share concerns, and better understand how federal decisions affect life at the local level.

We are grateful to our federal partners for inviting us to be part of the conversation and ensuring our community has a seat at the table as these important discussions take place.

  • A group of eight people stand together in a well-lit auditorium, smiling warmly. The setting includes a stage with a podium and chairs.
  • A woman speaks at a podium labeled "Western Oregon University" with a microphone. A man sits nearby, listening attentively, holding paper and a cup.
  • A person seated on stage at Western Oregon University speaks into a microphone, appearing engaged. A podium with logo and audience heads are visible.
  • A person on the left speaks into a microphone at a podium labeled "Western Oregon University," with two people seated at a table on the right. Background includes American flags.
  • A man speaks at a podium labeled "Western Oregon University." Two women sit at a table, listening intently. Flags line the background.