MAYOR'S MESSAGE Quiet Work, Lasting Impact: A Year of Progress in Coos Bay As we begin the New Year, I want to thank City staff, Council, volunteers, and residents for a year of steady and meaningful progress in Coos Bay. In 2025, much of the work that took place was not flashy, but it was important, and it will shape our community for years to come. One milestone was the adoption of the Empire Area Blueprint after years of public input and technical work, giving the community a clear framework for future growth in the Empire area. Staff also continued the cooperative, multi-jurisdictional work tied to the Coos Bay Estuary Management Plan, helping ensure environmental stewardship and responsible land use remain aligned across the region. We made significant investments in infrastructure that people rely on every day. Public Works repaired more than 160 smaller potholes and completed major spring and fall paving projects, restoring over 35,000 square feet of roadway, along with ongoing road and sidewalk improvements. This work continued seamlessly even as the Public Works Department welcomed a new Director this year. The city also advanced critical wastewater projects, including major upgrades at Wastewater Treatment Plant 1 and the ongoing construction of the new Pump Station 27 and its force main to support housing and long-term growth, strengthening the system that protects public health and the environment. Community pride and partnership were evident throughout the year, with Oregon Bay Area Beautification cleanups, City Cleanup Day, and other volunteer efforts helping keep our neighborhoods and public spaces clean and welcoming. Public safety and community services remained a top priority. The Police Department welcomed new officers, recognized retirements, service milestones, and lifesaving actions, and continued community outreach and safety programs. The Fire Department experienced leadership transition with a new Fire Chief, expanded training through regional firefighter academies, and stayed engaged with the public through education, seasonal safety outreach, and community events. The Coos Bay Public Library continued to be a vibrant hub for learning and connection, offering programs, events, and activities for residents of all ages throughout the year. The Finance Department also experienced a leadership transition this year, welcoming a new Director while continuing to operate at a very high level. Finance staff maintained their strong record of careful stewardship, transparency, and accountability, continuing a long history of successful audits and sound financial management that residents and Council can rely on. All of this work reflects the care and professionalism that City staff bring to their jobs every day, and the way residents show up to support their community — whether that’s attending meetings, volunteering, offering feedback, or simply taking pride in where they live. It’s that shared sense of responsibility and connection that makes Coos Bay work. As we head into the new year, I look forward to continuing this work together — listening, learning, and building on what we’ve started. Thank you for being engaged, for being thoughtful, and for being part of what makes Coos Bay the community it is. -Joe Benetti, Mayor of Coos BayPhotos from Coos Bay - City Government's post