On October 12, the Roseburg Area Chamber of Commerce hosted Candidates in Focus at the Douglas County Fairgrounds, bringing together candidates, business leaders and community members for an opportunity to hear directly from the people seeking local elected office.

The goal was simple: give voters the information they need to make informed decisions at the ballot box.

Conversations that matter

The decisions made by local elected officials affect our businesses, families and communities every day. From economic development and infrastructure to public safety, housing, homelessness and the future of downtown Roseburg, local leadership plays a critical role in shaping our region.

Candidates for Roseburg City Council, Roseburg Mayor and Douglas County Commissioner were invited to share their perspectives on the issues affecting our community.

The forum provided a structured, nonpartisan environment where voters could hear candidates' responses, compare their approaches and draw their own conclusions.

We do not have to agree on every issue to recognize the importance of hearing different perspectives.

Watch Candidates in Focus

We know not everyone could attend in person. Through our partnerships with The Roseburg Receiver and The Roseburg Plug, the event was livestreamed to expand access to the conversation.

Whether you attended and want to revisit a response, or you were unable to join us, we encourage you to watch the recording, hear directly from the candidates and make your own informed decisions.

Watch the full Candidates in Focus forum

Civic engagement is part of our mission

The Roseburg Area Chamber of Commerce believes that a strong business community and a strong community go hand in hand.

Our work includes advocating for policies that support a healthy local economy, building relationships with elected officials, and creating opportunities for businesses and residents to engage in important community conversations.

Candidates in Focus was a nonpartisan event, not an endorsement of any candidate. While the Chamber advocates for business priorities, candidate endorsements are the responsibility of our separately governed political action committee.

Our role is to encourage participation, elevate meaningful issues, and help keep the business community connected to the decisions that affect our region.

Thank you for participating

First and foremost, we extend our sincere appreciation to all of the candidates who participated in Candidates in Focus. Running for public office requires a commitment of time, energy and a willingness to put yourself before the community. We appreciate each candidate's willingness to share their perspectives, answer important questions and participate in the democratic process.

We are grateful to the partners who made the event possible.

Toby Luther of Lone Rock Resources for moderating the discussion.

The Roseburg Receiver and The Roseburg Plug for partnering with us to livestream the event and expand its reach.

The Event Agency for helping bring the event together.

Umpqua Economic Development Partnership for assisting in crafting thoughtful, relevant questions for the candidates.

Douglas County Fairgrounds for providing the venue.

We also thank everyone who attended, submitted questions or watched online. Your participation reflects a community that cares about its future and is willing to engage in the conversations that shape it.

Engagement does not end on Election Day

Elections help determine who will lead, but the future of our community is shaped by what happens between elections.

We encourage residents and business leaders to stay involved: attend public meetings, ask questions, and stay informed about the decisions affecting Roseburg and Douglas County.

An informed community is an empowered community. And an engaged community is one positioned to create meaningful change.

Stronger Business. Stronger Community. Stronger Roseburg.