Diana Helm Appointed to Clackamas County Board of Commissioners Amid Controversial Politics
Clackamas County, Oregon—Former Mayor of Damascus, Diana Helm, has been appointed to fill a vacant seat on the Clackamas County Board of Commissioners, following a tumultuous political saga. The decision, made during a board meeting on May 19, 2025, concluded months of uncertainty after former Commissioner Melissa Fireside resigned amid felony theft and forgery charges.
The board’s 3-1 vote highlighted significant political dynamics in the county, known for its blend of urban and rural interests. Commissioners praised Helm’s business experience and commitment to enhancing representation for rural communities. Chair Craig Roberts was the lone dissenter, advocating for a different candidate, Christine Lewis, due to her experience with Metro.
Fireside’s exit, following accusations of stealing $30,000 from an elderly man and forging a state representative’s signature, placed the board under intense scrutiny. Helm emerged from a competitive field of 59 candidates, chosen for her balanced approach and dedication to addressing key regional issues including homelessness, economic development, and mental health.
Helm’s appointment is viewed as a strategic move to bridge the divide between Clackamas County’s urban and rural areas, often at odds with one another. Commissioner Paul Savas emphasized the need for rural representation, and fellow Commissioner Dan Schrader described Helm as a "middle-of-the-road" candidate, poised to advocate for overlooked communities.
At her initial address post-vote, Helm expressed her eagerness to serve, stating she aims to work collaboratively with all stakeholders. As she steps into her new role, Helm is tasked with addressing challenging regional issues while deciding whether to run for the seat again in the upcoming election.
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