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Board appoints Jennifer Petzold to Columbia County Parks Committee
Summary
The county appointed Jennifer Petzold to fill position No. 5 on the Parks Committee through Dec. 31, 2026, after an interview in which she emphasized inclusive parks, native planting, and outreach to attract visitors and support local businesses.
Jennifer Petzold was appointed to the Columbia County Parks Committee on March 18, 2026, to complete the term for position No. 5, which expires Dec. 31, 2026. Commissioners moved and seconded the appointment and voted in favor.
Petzold, who said she has lived in Columbia County about three years, told the board she is “pretty passionate about parks and just outside activities,” and described volunteer work at Dibley Beach and Camp Wilkerson. She told commissioners she favors native-planting efforts, maintenance to limit invasive species, and broader outreach so visitors from places like Portland learn about county parks and support local businesses.
During a question-and-answer exchange, Petzold said she wants parks to be accessible to families, seniors, young adults and people with disabilities, and suggested photography and brochure campaigns to highlight county parks. She named several parks she has visited — including Wilkerson and Scaponia — and said she hopes to work collaboratively with existing advisory groups that run events and educational efforts.
A commissioner moved to appoint the candidate to the vacant parks position and authorized the chair to sign; the motion passed. The appointee thanked the board and said she looks forward to serving.
The appointment takes effect immediately. The county will publish the committee roster and next meeting schedule on its usual public agenda process.
