Spring into Summer: A Look back at May & June in Salem

Dear Salem,

As we reach the halfway point of the year, I’m feeling incredibly grateful for the many people, places, and conversations that have shaped these past several months. From honoring local heroes and educators to celebrating the rich diversity of our community, May and June were full of meaningful moments that reminded me why I love serving this city. I’m excited to share a few highlights with you as we continue working together toward a brighter future for Salem.

Ride-Along with Salem Fire Department

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to ride along with the Salem Fire Department and get a closer look at the training, technology, and teamwork behind their lifesaving work. I even got to initiate a test dummy and try out their new video-assisted intubation system! This experience reinforced my appreciation for the incredible people behind our emergency response system. With the City preparing to assume responsibility for ambulance service starting July 1, the timing of this visit felt especially meaningful. I’ve been closely following this transition, and I’m optimistic that this move will improve patient care and response times across our community.

Read more here: City of Salem News Article

Honoring Educators at the 2025 Crystal Apple Awards

It was inspiring to attend the 2025 Crystal Apple Awards and join in celebrating the outstanding educators who go above and beyond for students across Salem-Keizer. These 12 award recipients represent the heart of our community—lifting up young people every day through creativity, compassion, and commitment. Congratulations to each of this year’s honorees, and thank you for the impact you make in and out of the classroom!

Supporting Small Business in Downtown Salem

I want to take a moment to celebrate my friend and fellow restaurant owner, Treva Gambs. After years of building community and serving incredible food in Salem, Treva is relocating Gamberetti’s to the Holman Hotel. It’s a strategic move for a beloved business, and a testament to her ongoing investment in our city’s vitality and growth. I’m proud to stand alongside local business leaders like Treva who continue to believe in the heart of Salem.

Youth Leaders at the Heart of Local Government

In May, the Youth Leadership Project stepped into the halls of civic power—visiting the Salem City Council Chambers for a dynamic visit during their Local Government Day.

The cohort of 24 high school juniors from across Salem-Keizer public and private schools had the rare opportunity to hear directly from the people shaping our communities: Salem Mayor Julie Hoy, Salem City Manager Krishna Namburi, and Keizer Mayor Cathy Clark.

These passionate leaders shared their journeys, challenges, and hopes for the future—reminding us that every voice matters in building stronger, more inclusive cities. From public testimony practice to conversations about civic responsibility, our students left feeling empowered, informed, and inspired to lead with purpose.

Celebrating Arts & Culture in Salem

I was thrilled to attend the Feria del Libro (Spanish Book Fair) this year at the Oregon State Fairgrounds—an event that continues to grow thanks to the vision and dedication of community members like author Lucy Escobar. With native dancers, bilingual children’s books, and cultural art, it was a joyful reminder of the diversity that strengthens our community.

Cleanup at Claggett Creek with Salem P.D.

In May, I joined officers from Salem Police Department for a cleanup at Claggett Creek, where the community has struggled with long-standing encampments and growing safety concerns. Our time on the ground reinforced something I’ve said before: we have more work to do. It’s clear that some individuals are in crisis, battling mental illness or addiction, while others are simply disconnected and trying to stay off the radar. Public safety and compassionate outreach must go hand in hand. We need to keep advocating for systems that provide the right kind of support—and hold all of us accountable to the health and safety of our neighborhoods.

If you have ideas, concerns, or solutions you’d like to share, I welcome you to submit them at any time at julieforsalem.com/ideas. Let’s keep working together.

City Hall Seismic and Safety Renovations

Earlier this month, I packed up my office at City Hall as we begin the process of relocating to temporary workspaces during the building’s much-needed seismic and safety renovations. It was a bittersweet moment to step out of the council chambers one last time before the move, but an exciting step toward a safer, more resilient home for our city’s leadership and services. Though the setting may shift, my work on your behalf continues without interruption. Learn more about the City Hall renovation project here.

Civic Leadership Award from Salem Area Solutions Alliance

At this year’s Salem Area Solutions Alliance Annual Meeting, I was humbled to be recognized—alongside dear community leaders—with the Civic Leadership Award. This acknowledgment affirms the work so many of us are doing across sectors to solve problems and bring people together for the greater good.

Thank you for staying connected and engaged—your ideas, encouragement, and participation matter more than you know. Whether we’re showing up for our neighbors, supporting local businesses, or solving tough challenges, I believe Salem’s strength lies in its people. I hope you’ll continue to follow along, share your thoughts, and stay involved. We’re just getting started.

Warm regards,

Julie Hoy

Mayor of Salem