February 4, 2026 3:30 a.m.  

Officials with the City of Sutherlin have provided information regarding the decision to change the time of city council meetings.

Mayor Michelle Sumner said the change comes after hearing from residents that evening meetings are not always conducive to broad participation. Sumner said a morning meeting offers several benefits to the community. That includes:

*Greater accessibility for students: Student leadership classes will now be able to attend and observe local government in action

*Improved safety and comfort: Residents who prefer not to drive at night will now have the opportunity to participate.

*Reduced hardship for working families: Many families have shared that attending a meeting after a full workday – often staying out until 8:30 p.m. can be difficult.

*Potential for increased turnout: Current attendance is low, and the hope is that the new time will encourage more residents to engage with their local government.

The next Sutherlin City Council meeting will be on February 9th at 10:00 a.m. with the Urban Renewal Agency meeting at 9:45 a.m.

For more information about the City of Sutherlin, go to: https://www.sutherlinoregon.gov/