The St. Helens City Council on Jan. 7 appointed Jeremy Evans to fill a seat on the city's budget committee after interviewing five candidates.

Jeremy Evans told the council he brings actuarial and financial experience and said he would apply a critical eye to long-term financial risk and transparency. "I have kind of a unique skill set in the financial industry as an actuary," Evans said during his interview, describing work that focuses on long-term reserves and risk assessment.

Council president Chilton moved to appoint Evans; the motion was seconded and carried with councilors indicating assent. Councilors praised Evans' background as providing a perspective the committee lacked. Evans accepted congratulations and will be added to the committee roster ahead of the upcoming budget cycle.

Candidates interviewed included local residents who cited priorities such as public safety, youth programs and revenue-generation through community events. Several applicants noted concerns about the city's budget assumptions and urged conservative forecasting. The council noted the budget season is forthcoming and emphasized the need for staff and committee collaboration to balance priorities.

Next steps: the city clerk will notify Evans of orientation and provide the budget calendar; the committee typically meets two to three times in April and May, according to the city materials distributed to candidates.