July 2, 2023 3:40 a.m.  

Local officials have responded to the recent purchase of two downtown Roseburg properties by the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians.

June 21st, the Tribe confirmed that it purchased the former Rite Aid store on Southeast Jackson Street and the adjacent former Safeway property on Southeast Rose Street.

Roseburg City Manager Nikki Messenger said, “Roseburg’s downtown is an absolute gem and I am thrilled that the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians has chosen to invest in our community”. Messenger said, “I look forward to finding opportunities to work together to create an even better, more vibrant, thriving Downtown Roseburg”.

Douglas County Commissioner Chris Boice said, “I’m glad to see the two properties that have been under utilized and considered an eyesore for years have been purchased by a local entity who has a history of investing into our community and will undoubtably change the face of downtown Roseburg with whatever they plan to do there”.

Umpqua Economic Development Partnership Executive Director Brian Prawitz said, “Personally, I slept better last night knowing these sites are under local control and I believe what happens in that location has the ability to redefine the Roseburg area and provide boosts to our economy and morale”.

The Cow Creek Tribe has not released additional information about its plans for the properties.