Scappoose council accepts resignation of Marissa Jacobs, unanimously appoints two replacements

Scappoose — Councilor Marissa Jacobs told the City Council on Sept. 15 that, "due to competing priorities in my life, I had to make the tough decision to resign from council, effective immediately." The council immediately declared her seat vacant and moved to expedite replacements.

City Attorney/City Manager staff explained that the city charter does not prescribe a specific appointment procedure but cited Scappoose municipal code provisions for appointments and vacancies (Ch. 2.04) and said the council may suspend notice rules by unanimous vote. After discussion about timing and a short application window, Councilor Holmes moved to suspend the vacancy-notification rule and consider the two applicants that had already applied; the motion passed unanimously.

The council then approved Resolution No. 25-21 declaring the seat vacant and voted to appoint Marty Marquis to the seat expiring Dec. 31, 2028, and John Ryuta to the seat expiring Dec. 31, 2026. The council recorded the outcome as unanimous and swore both appointees into office during the meeting.

Why it matters: The appointments put the council at full strength before a planned goal-setting session and an upcoming League of Oregon Cities conference, allowing new members to participate in short-term orientation and regional events.

What’s next: The newly appointed councilors will assume duties immediately and will be included in orientation and scheduled work sessions; the council will maintain the record of the appointment and the resolution in the municipal minutes.