City officials participate in statewide conference

Local officials from the City of Sisters recently joined nearly 700 attendees from across Oregon at the League of Oregon Cities 84th Annual Conference and Business Meeting, October 1-3 in Portland.

City officials from throughout Oregon attended work sessions and training seminars to help them manage their municipalities more effectively and to share best practices. Those attending from the City of Sisters included Mayor Lon Kellstrom, Councilors Sharlene Weed and Jerry Bogart, City Manager Eileen Stein and Public Works Director Brad Grimm.

More than 25 sessions were offered, giving city officials new tools and information on topics such as economic development, media relations, sustainable infrastructure, financial alternatives, disaster preparedness and developing community leadership. In addition, city officials met face-to-face with policy advisors from the governor's office, several state agency directors, and legislative advisors to Oregon's U.S. Senators.

Business meetings were held for the league and various professional associations, including the Oregon City/County Manager's Association. City Manager Eileen Stein is now president elect, meaning she is in line to become the OCCMA President in 2011.

The City of Sisters received a gold award for employee wellness and a bronze award for safety from City/County Insurance Services.