Both Mark Weber of Perrysburg and Steven Salander of Oregon have served on city council. On Tuesday, Weber and Salander also became mayors-elect for their cities.
OREGON CITY, Ore. — Two former city council members will now serve as mayors after winning decisive victories in Tuesday’s election.
In Perrysburg, Mark Weber, who served six years on city council, won with 75% of the vote over opponent Aaron Harder. He called the result “surreal” and said he was humbled by the community’s support.
“I think they really got the message that I’m here, I’m working for them,” Weber said. “And that’s all I want to do.”
His priorities include economic growth, tax relief and completing major infrastructure projects.
“We want to relieve that tax burden from our citizens and promote economic development, especially down our Route 25 corridor,” he said.
Weber also praised the recent school levy approval.
“I’m very thrilled that the levy passed,” said the Perrysburg High School graduate.
Weber plans to oversee the revitalization of the historic district, renovations to the municipal building and upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant. With a background in construction, Weber said he’ll be “hands-on” with the city’s capital projects.
Another focus is expanding bike trails.
“Non-motorized connectivity from one park to the next is very important to me,” he said. “Multi-use paths build community, promote health and help with traffic.”
Weber said he set his sights on the mayor’s office in 2021, knowing the previous mayor would be term-limited.
“It’s a part-time job, but for me, it’s a full-time commitment,” he said.
In Oregon, Steven Salander also won his race, defeating a longtime incumbent with 64% of the vote. A two-year council member, Salander said he was overwhelmed by the support.
“My phone has been blowing up all day,” he said. “It’s just so humbling, the amount of support we have together.”
Salander’s top priorities include infrastructure improvements and a full review of a proposed data center.
“We need to look at the entire picture — quality of life, wildlife, utilities,” he said.
He dedicated the win to former mayor Marge Brown, who passed away during the campaign.
“This one was for her and for Lenny, her husband,” Salander said. “I’m just so grateful.”
After a divisive election season, Salander emphasized unity.
“There’s going to be some repairing and healing,” he said. “We need to focus on our common goal of making this city the best it can be.”
To residents unsure about new leadership, Salander offered reassurance.
“Give me a shot,” he said. “I’m confident that if we talk, we’ll find we have more in common than we don’t.”
Both mayors said they’re committed to transparency, collaboration and building stronger communities.
This article was published by Faith Zochowski on 2025-11-05 18:32:00
View Original Post
