Forest Grove News Times questions posed to candidates for Forest Grove City Council. 

1.What skills or experiences have prepared you to serve on the Forest Grove City Council?

My career in both the private and public sectors has uniquely equipped me to serve on the Forest Grove City Council. With 19 years at Intel in mergers and acquisitions, supply chain, and project management at an international level, followed by a decade of public service, I’ve gained expertise in navigating complex systems, managing capital projects, and fostering cross-sector collaboration. I’ve directed millions in federal, state, and regional investments into local programs, scaling housing and food security efforts during the pandemic. 

Prior government experience includes leadership of a Western Washington County Emergency Taskforce, Forest Grove Sustainability Commission, Forest Grove Firefighter Support Volunteer, Washington County Continuum of Care Board, and Oregon Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). Additionally, my long-standing relationships with government and nonprofit leaders help me bridge gaps between sectors. I’m committed to building a more resilient and inclusive Forest Grove by applying this blend of experience to local governance.

2. What do you consider to be the biggest issues facing Forest Grove residents currently, and how do you think those issues should be addressed?

Pressing issues facing Forest Grove residents include housing affordability, financial security, and new development. Rising housing costs are pushing families out, while economic growth hasn’t kept pace to provide living wages and job opportunities. Development policies—both economic development and population growth—present challenges for resident quality of life.  We need to better align our “full-service city” for effective growth and emerging needs.

To address housing affordability, I support expanding affordable housing options and incentivizing developments that meet the needs of all income levels. Economic development can be fostered through strategic partnerships with local businesses, nonprofits, and educational institutions to create new jobs and invest in workforce training. Modernizing the development code, with attention to housing and industry developments, should be prioritized to ensure residential interests, compliance to laws, and long-term resilience. By working together with local leaders and residents, we can create a more inclusive, prosperous Forest Grove for everyone.

3. What are your top funding priorities?

My top funding priorities for Forest Grove focus on housing, infrastructure, and community services. First, I will pursue housing policies that steer public and private investments into affordable housing, ensuring that funding goes toward creating and preserving homes for low- and middle-income families. Addressing housing affordability is essential to keeping our community thriving – a choice to live and work here.

Second, I will advocate for infrastructure improvements, including sustainable transportation, green energy initiatives, and upgraded public utilities, to support long-term growth and environmental resilience.

Lastly, I will focus on funding vital community services like public safety, health resources, and youth and senior recreation. Strengthening these services not only improves quality of life but also fosters a safer, more connected community. By focusing on these key areas, we can create a more equitable, resilient, and vibrant future for all Forest Grove residents.

4. What infrastructure needs do you think should be prioritized in Forest Grove?

Forest Grove’s infrastructure priorities should focus on sustainable growth, climate resilience, and public safety. First, we need to invest in modernizing transportation networks, including safer roads, improving public transit options, and enhancing pedestrian walkways to support a more accessible, connected city.

Second, upgrading electrical, stormwater and sewer systems to handle future growth and climate challenges are essential to prevent outages, flooding and protect the environment. Implementing sustainable infrastructure can further enhance our environment and better equip the city for development.

Finally, I would advocate for the construction of a new police station to better serve the growing population and improve public safety. A modern facility will ensure our officers have the resources and space needed to effectively protect and engage with the community. By addressing these key areas, Forest Grove can build an infrastructure that supports economic growth, environmental stewardship, and public safety for all residents.

5. Forest Grove voters will consider a city charter amendment this November. Do you support or oppose the measure? Why? 

I oppose the city charter amendment being referred to the ballot. The proposed measure neglects the input of survey respondents on important issues like term limits – a community priority. Changes to the charter should address how our government functions, and only be made when absolutely necessary with broad public support. The current charter provides flexibility to address challenges, and alternative solutions—like passing ordinances—can tackle specific issues without permanently altering our city’s foundation. We should prioritize improving existing processes and community engagement, rather than enacting changes that may not fully reflect the voices of our diverse population.

6. What is something that people might not know about you?

People might not know that my family is building a custom Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in our backyard to contribute to deeply affordable housing in Forest Grove. Our priority is to support our young adult daughter, and eventually rent the unit to Pacific University students. This project reflects my deep commitment to addressing housing needs in our community. 

Alongside this, leadership of a COVID19 era Emergency Taskforce steered nearly $15M in new investment (federal, state and regional funds) into our local community, scaling food pantries and housing services programs to address increased housing and food insecurity. These service providers thrive even now.

Forest Grove has been central to my family’s life, and I’m deeply invested in its future.  My aspiration is to bolster a healthy, resilient, and inclusive city, and I am more than prepared to serve this community on the city council. 

Reach out to learn more: brianschimmel.org