MAYOR'S MESSAGE Setting the Stage for 2026 Through Community, Collaboration, and Growth This week we had several opportunities to engage with the community. Last Saturday, Oregon Bay Area Beautification held their first cleanup of 2026 at Millicoma Marsh Trail. The turnout was great, as usual, but likely boosted by both the beautiful weather and the community’s love of this wonderful amenity. Many thanks to the OBAB team and their many supporters, and as always, a special shout out to Jamie Fereday, the champion of Millicoma Marsh Trail. Tuesday, at the first 2026 session of Leadership Coos, Councilor Cribbins shared presentation honors with North Bend’s Mayor Engelke, to speak on the topic of “How We are Governed”. This large class of Leadership Coos attendees learned about both city’s structure and some processes, with a deep dive into urban renewal and the property tax system. My thanks to Councilor Cribbins for representing Coos Bay, in familiar territory – Coos Bay City Hall Council Chambers! On Wednesday, at the first Wednesday Business Connection luncheon of 2026, Councilor Kilmer and Councilor Matthews presented to a large audience the “State of the City” address. The Bay Area Chamber of Commerce hosts these weekly luncheons at the Ko-Kwel Casino and Resort, and the annual State of the City luncheon is always well attended. The Coos Bay City Councilors spoke about economic development and urban renewal, both significant drivers for the Coos Bay of tomorrow which we are all working on with thoughtful planning and through collaborative partnerships. We will close out the week by attending the Friday evening “Pitch Night” at NoBe Taphouse in North Bend. This is an annual event of the South Coast Development Council / Southwest Oregon Innovation Hub and will showcase five entrepreneurs, pitching their business idea. This community-wide event brings together many organizations who support it, volunteer at the event with coaching or judging, and most importantly give the lucky winner a boost towards business success. This early week of 2026 sets the stage for what this year has to offer – opportunities to listen and learn, volunteer, collaborate with great partners, and most importantly engage in all that we have available in our community. Here is to a great start to 2026! -Joe Benetti, Mayor of Coos Bay