Three Bend councilors back Helt over fellow councilor

On the first day of the general election campaign, three of the seven members of the Bend City Council announced their support for Bend La-Pine school board member Cheri Helt over fellow city council member Nathan Boddie in the race for Oregon House District 54, Helt’s campaign said.

Mayor Casey Roats and councilors Justin Livingston and Bill Moseley all said they felt the Republican Helt would represent Bend with greater independence, bi-partisanship and effectiveness than the Democrat Boddie, according to a news release from the Helt campaign.

“I’m thrilled that leaders of this caliber who know both candidates well would honor me with their confidence, trust and endorsement, said Helt. “The city of Bend needs a strong voice in Salem, just as our schools do. I will keep an open door and an open mind. I will listen and I will lead for our community.”

“Cheri Helt is the independent voice that Bend needs in Salem,” said Mayor Roats. “Her time representing students on the Bend La-Pine school board has already made a positive, measurable difference for our schools, and we can trust there’s so much more she will do for our city and state at the capitol.”

Council Member Livingston said of Cheri, “Endorsing Cheri is an easy choice. Her independent nature puts her above the party politics that causes roadblocks. I’m excited to work with her to make real progress for Bend and find solutions to some of our most pressing issues.”

“As a fellow business owner, I’m confident that Cheri is the perfect candidate to represent Bend,” City Councilor Moseley stated. “She knows the needs of businesses and employees, and how we can help both to make our city more prosperous and affordable for all.”