Longview’s seven-member City Council is set for the 2026–2027 term, with three newly elected councilmembers joining four returning members. The new lineup matters because the council will be making major choices in the near term on city finances, public safety infrastructure, economic development priorities, and the overall direction of policy in a council-manager form of government.

The City of Longview published a short “get to know you” profile of each councilmember on January 6, 2026, after inviting both newly elected and returning members to answer questions about their backgrounds, interests, and what they see as Longview’s strengths.

Newly elected councilmembers (terms beginning in 2026)

Chris Bryant described himself as a lifelong Longview resident with experience in finance, business, and long-term planning, and said he values a thoughtful, collaborative approach to decision-making. He highlighted Lake Sacajawea and Willow Grove as favorite local places and said Longview’s strength is “its people.”

Mike Claxton said he brings a legal background, budgeting experience, and community board service. He has lived in Longview since 2007 and in Cowlitz County since 1999. He listed Lake Sacajawea as a favorite place and noted he has completed 17 marathons and two Ironman triathlons.

Wayne Nichols said he has lived in Longview since 1960 and emphasized collaboration, consensus-building, and listening to differing perspectives. He called Lake Sacajawea Longview’s “crown jewel” and said he enjoys engaging with residents at community events.

Returning councilmembers (continuing into 2026–2027)

Erik Halvorson said he brings a technical analysis background and focuses on a data-driven approach, prioritizing fiscal accountability and efficiency. He highlighted Longview’s parks as important family spaces and said he values the community’s history of self-reliance.

Ruth Kendall, a chemical engineer who has lived in Longview for more than 40 years, said her engineering background informs a data-driven approach to council decision-making. She highlighted Longview’s walkability, trees, and short travel times as underappreciated advantages.

Kalei LaFave said she has lived in Longview since infancy and emphasized critical thinking, clear communication, resilience, and a focus on the common good. She noted a history of civic involvement through boards and commissions and highlighted Longview’s history and tree-lined streets as part of the city’s character.

Keith Young, who was born and raised in Longview, said his professional experience in technology and software provides perspective for council issues. He highlighted Longview’s history and community celebrations and pointed to central neighborhoods near Commerce Avenue and Lake Sacajawea as places visitors often miss.

What happens next: mayor selection and major decisions ahead

Although Longview voters elect councilmembers, the council selects a mayor from among its members at the first council meeting of each even-numbered year. OPB reported that Longview’s City Council planned to select a new mayor on January 8, 2026, and that outgoing mayor Spencer Boudreau lost reelection in 2025. OPB also reported the city was facing a significant budget gap looking ahead to the 2027–28 biennium, along with discussion of potential revenue and infrastructure needs, including a possible tax increase related to a new fire station.

For residents trying to follow the council’s work, the most useful habit is to watch agendas, minutes, and vote records—because that’s where policy becomes real: zoning decisions, contracts, public safety spending, and how the city balances limited dollars against growing needs.

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