Coos County, Oregon, hugs the Pacific coastline, a region known for its timber industry, abundant fishing, and growing tourism sector.
When we talk about a “roster” in the context of Coos County, we’re referring to a list of key people, departments, and organizations that keep the county running.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the important entities and individuals within the Coos County government and community. It’s your guide to understanding who’s who and what’s what in Coos County.
Coos County Government Officials and Departments
Coos County, Oregon, is governed by a board of commissioners and managed through a variety of county departments. Here’s a look at some of the key players:
County Commissioners
The current Coos County Commissioners are:
Joe Schults: (Need bio info)
Melissa Cribbins: (Need bio info)
Bob Main: (Need bio info)
The County Commissioners are the executive branch of Coos County. They oversee the county budget, create and enact local ordinances, and represent Coos County in regional and state matters.
Key County Departments
Sheriff’s Office: Sheriff Craig Zanni heads the Coos County Sheriff’s Office, which is responsible for law enforcement, emergency services, and maintaining the peace within the county’s borders.
County Clerk’s Office: The County Clerk, Dana Johansen, oversees elections, manages county records, and issues marriage licenses.
Assessor’s Office: Assessor Dale Stansell leads the Assessor’s Office, which determines the value of properties within the county for tax assessment purposes.
Other Important Departments: Coos County also relies on the District Attorney’s Office for legal matters, Public Works for infrastructure maintenance, and Health & Human Services for public health and social services programs.
City Governments within Coos County
Coos County is home to a number of incorporated cities, each with its own government and elected officials. Here’s a quick look at a few of them:
City of Coos Bay
Coos Bay is the largest city in Coos County and a major port on the Oregon coast.
City of North Bend
North Bend is right next to Coos Bay and has its own economic drivers.
Other Incorporated Cities
Beyond Coos Bay and North Bend, Coos County has a few other incorporated cities, including:
- Bandon. Known for its beautiful beaches and cranberry production.
- Myrtle Point. Nestled along the Coquille River, Myrtle Point is rich in timber production and agriculture.
- Powers. The town of Powers is a gateway to outdoor activities in the Coast Range.
- Lakeside. As the name suggests, Lakeside is situated on the shore of a lake, offering recreational opportunities.
These smaller cities each have their own unique character and industries that contribute to the overall fabric of Coos County.
Education and School Districts
Coos County has a number of public school districts educating children from kindergarten through 12th grade, as well as a community college and a few other educational options.
Coos County School Districts
The largest school districts in Coos County are:
- Coos Bay School District. This district includes schools in the Coos Bay area. The superintendent is Bryan Trendell.
- North Bend School District. This district serves the city of North Bend. The superintendent is Kevin Bogatin.
Southwestern Oregon Community College (SWOCC)
Located in Coos Bay, Southwestern Oregon Community College provides higher education and vocational training for students throughout the region. SWOCC offers associate’s degrees, certificate programs, and transfer programs for students planning to continue their education at a four-year university. The current president of SWOCC is Dr. Patty Scott.
Other Educational Institutions
Coos County is also home to a few private schools and specialized educational programs, offering families additional choices for their children’s education. These include religious schools and schools for children with special needs.
Major Employers and Economic Drivers
Coos County’s economy has historically relied on natural resources, but it’s becoming increasingly diverse. Key industries include timber, fishing, tourism, and healthcare.
Several large employers contribute significantly to the local economy. Bay Area Hospital provides crucial medical services and jobs. While the timber industry has faced challenges, companies like Georgia-Pacific still maintain operations in the area. The Mill Casino • Hotel & RV Park and other local casinos contribute to tourism revenue and employment. Other significant employers include schools and government entities.
The economic outlook for Coos County is mixed. While tourism continues to grow, the timber industry faces ongoing pressures. Recent efforts to attract new businesses and develop infrastructure aim to create a more stable and diversified economy. The future likely depends on balancing traditional industries with new opportunities in sectors like technology and renewable energy.
Key Takeaways
This roster offers a snapshot of the people and organizations that make Coos County what it is. From government officials to local businesses to community groups, it highlights the diverse range of folks who contribute to the region.
Whether you’re a resident, a business owner, or just visiting, this information is a valuable resource for understanding the community. It’s a starting point for connecting, collaborating, and learning more about what Coos County has to offer.
As Coos County continues to evolve, so too will the individuals and entities shaping its future. This roster is a moment in time, capturing the spirit of a community on the move.