Redmond, Ore. – George Endicott is running for re-election as the City of Redmond’s mayor.
Below, is his release statement in full:
“Why am I running for re-election? I think Redmond is a amazing community. I want to see it stay that way. During my tenure we have prospered in good times and weathered a recession.
I’d like the opportunity to continue our path of enhancing the Community of Redmond. I am passionate about the growth, sustainability, individuals and families that make up this place I call home.
I am a 5th generation Central Oregonian. My family came here in 1873 and settled in the Madras and Central Oregon area. I was born here and spent my formative years here. My father’s career, and my subsequent career, took me away from Redmond – but gave me a chance to see the world. When I retired in 2003 I came home. There is no better place!
I have served as Redmond’s mayor for almost 8 years. Prior to that, I was a Councilor. I started my Redmond public service as a Planning Commissioner. All told, I have spent about 12 years serving Redmond which has allowed me the opportunity to truly understand the needs of our community and work with some extraordinary folks along the way.
During that 12 year period we have seen extraordinary growth, a near-record recession, and finally, modest and manageable growth for the past few years. Several city leaders have stated that I have been one of the “most successful mayors in Redmond’s History”. I am grateful for such compliments. My goal, of course, is to continue to provide an environment where we maintain the positive momentum.
There have been many successes in Redmond during my tenure as your Mayor. Just to name a few, we have secured new businesses, such as Nosler – arguably the top bullet manufacturer in the world, Consumer Cellular – the fastest growing cellular provider in the country, and BasX – a high tech air handling system manufacturer. Companies such as Medline (former Medisis) and PCC Schlosser, were convinced to stay in Redmond. Central Oregon Truck chose to consolidate operations rather than leave the area. We’ve also seen growth in the commercial sector, with Home Depot, Lowe’s, Wal-Mart, and Wild Ride Brewing establishing facilities here.
Family and community amenities, such as the rebuilding of our main streets, the construction of Centennial Park and Hope Playground, a seasonal ice skating rink, and the current success in saving a historic icon – turning Evergreen Elementary/Redmond Union High School into City Hall, all show our focus is on the city as a whole.
The improvements to Redmond in recent years, even during the recession, have resulted in a vibrant and growing community. As I state in all major speeches, “Redmond is Open For Business, and is Family Friendly and Family Oriented.”
My engagement at the regional and State levels have allowed me to influence policies for the betterment of Redmond. Promoting changes in State land use policies has given more local decision making authority to local governments. My long association with the League of Oregon Cities as a past President and the Oregon Mayors Association as the President-elect, and Board member on both, have also led to Redmond having a leading role in stimulating State-wide policies. As a member of the Governor’s Regional Solutions Team Board I can impact regional funding priorities.
We have many things yet to accomplish. Our primary functions are public health, public safety, infrastructure building and maintenance, and economic development. We will continue to replace water pipe against a carefully laid out schedule. The wastewater treatment plant is sufficient for now, and we continually study future needs. Our police force is one of the best in Oregon.
Our Chief receives Council support for the needs of the Department. Of the 300+ miles of roads Redmond owns, we must ensure the roads stay in good condition. Finally, the economic health of a community can be measured by the kinds of businesses the city can attract.
Based on the list above and many others, we have an outstanding track record of keeping or attracting quality businesses. One of my primary jobs is to ensure our reputation, “Redmond is Open for Business,” is maintained.
The entire Council, with the exception of my opponent, have endorsed me for my reelection as your mayor. Other endorsements include the 3 Deschutes County Commissioners, Congressman Greg Walden, several current and prior State legislators, and many prominent business leaders.
In conclusion, I look forward to the opportunity of being reelected as your Mayor of Redmond.”
