September 13, 2019 11:30 a.m.
Oregon Governor Kate Brown came to Roseburg for a private meeting described as a “listening session” on Friday.
Swanson Group President and CEO Steve Swanson told News Radio 1240 KQEN that representatives from many sectors of the local business community were invited to talk with the Governor about the impacts of the proposed cap and trade legislation and share their concerns.
Timber Unity held a rally at the Swanson Roseburg Stud Mill ahead of the meeting. That rally attracted about 45 people. Douglas County Commissioners Tim Freeman and Tom Kress were at the event as were Sheriff John Hanlin and Undersheriff Jeff Frieze.
Around two dozen people waited for the Governor’s arrival, standing near the main entrance to Swanson along Highway 99 south of Roseburg. Many carried Timber Unity signs or signs calling for the Governor’s recall. Marie Bowers, board member for Timber Unity told KQEN that the group did not have a representative in the meeting with the Governor, but came to Swanson to show her that they are watching what is happening in Salem. She said it was all about “standing up for working Oregonians”.
Swanson said Brown came to the mill to tour the facility but said the meeting was being held in another location. He said she would also be going to Lane County to repeat the process there at the company’s plywood facility with another meeting and plant tour.