The Nugget Newspaper - News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

The newest advisory board created by resolution of the Sisters City Council is the Public Works Advisory Board, which just began meeting in January.

Public Works Director Paul Bertagna is enthused about the experience and expertise of the five new board members.

Robert Hatfield volunteered for the board because he thought it “would be a good way to learn more about Sisters.” He has experience as a civil engineer, a construction manager, and in real estate.

John Herman, the new owner of the Lazy Z Ranch, wanted to “get plugged in to the community” and is interested in future traffic plans. He moved to Sisters because he grew up on a ranch and wanted to raise his 3- and 5-year-old children here.

Bill Kelly moved to Pine Meadow Village from California and wants to “act locally.” He has a background in water/wastewater equipment, consulting for cities, and working for a hydroelectric company in Portland. He thinks, “public works is the backbone and skin of a city, making it pretty important.” Kelly volunteered to be the board’s vice chair.

Dave Moyer, who volunteered to be the chairman of the new board, is a longtime Sisters resident, having moved here in 1972 to work for the U.S. Forest Service. He has served in numerous volunteer and elected positions including the Zoning Committee, City Council, and Urban Forestry Board.

“I can provide the longevity input for the board,” Moyer said.

Jen Rambo is a longtime resident of Sisters, having grown up here. She has 15 years of experience as a licensed electrician and worked for eight years with temporary power distribution for events like the Sisters Folk Festival and My Own Two Hands. This will be her first experience on a volunteer board, and she thinks she is a good fit. She is interested in the City’s current infrastructure, the Adams Avenue modification project, possible installation of sidewalks on Washington Avenue, and the safety and security of the City’s water.

The board will act as a sounding board for Bertagna and Project Coordinator Troy Rayburn to be sure they are headed in the right direction with public projects and not missing anything. Review of Public Works Master Plans will be a key piece of their responsibilities. They will assist with prioritizing street construction, public works projects and/or recommend capital improvement projects. They will also provide advice to the City Council and Planning Commission when needed on general public works related matters affecting the City. They will help with research to ensure that decisions are being made on a good, solid basis.

Bertagna said the board and staff will work as a team and he welcomes their varied perspectives.

“I believe the advisory board will make us a better department and help make our budgeting process as accurate as possible,” said Bertagna. “We are fortunate to have five people with such vast experience.”