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83rd OREGON LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY--2025 Regular Session
Enrolled
Senate Concurrent Resolution 18
Sponsored by Senator PATTERSON, Representative EVANS
Whereas following his election in 1998, John McArdle served as mayor of the City of Inde-
pendence, Oregon, for more than 25 years; and
Whereas Mayor McArdle provided visionary leadership that shaped Independence’s growth and
enhanced the quality of life of its residents; and
Whereas under Mayor McArdle’s steadfast leadership, Independence experienced transformative
growth and progress, including the creation of the beloved Riverview Park, a treasured gathering
place for community events, recreation and cultural celebrations; and
Whereas during Mayor McArdle’s tenure, Independence became one of the smallest towns in the
United States to win an All-America City Award; and
Whereas Mayor McArdle supported initiatives that brought additional jobs to the area, fostering
economic vitality and opportunity for residents; and
Whereas Mayor McArdle played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Monmouth Inde-
pendence Network (MINET), a groundbreaking municipal Internet provider that has positioned In-
dependence as a leader in technological accessibility and connectivity; and
Whereas Mayor McArdle’s collaboration and dedication to the vision of a free trolley system
between the cities of Independence and Monmouth further enhanced regional connectivity and ac-
cessibility for residents and visitors alike; and
Whereas Mayor McArdle actively contributed to state and regional leadership, serving on or-
ganizations such as the League of Oregon Cities, the Oregon Mayors Association, the Oregon
Homeland Security Council, the Mid-Willamette Valley Council of Governments board, the Ash
Creek Water Control District board and many others, advancing the interests of Independence and
of the region as a whole; and
Whereas as a senior fellow at the Hatfield School of Government at Portland State University,
Mayor McArdle trained and mentored elected officials across Oregon, sharing his expertise and
leadership skills through frequent presentations and workshops; and
Whereas in 2024, Mayor McArdle received the prestigious Mark O. Hatfield Statesmanship
Award from the League of Oregon Cities, which honors exemplary service and lifetime achievements
having a statewide impact; and
Whereas Mayor McArdle retired from office in December 2024; and
Whereas John McArdle will continue to serve his community, giving generously of his time and
lending his vast experience and wisdom to numerous local organizations, while also serving as an
elected board member of the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee; and
Whereas throughout his long and remarkable tenure as mayor, John McArdle exemplified col-
laboration, innovation and a deep love for Independence, championing countless initiatives that have
left a profound and lasting impact on his community and will be remembered for generations to
come; now, therefore,
Be It Resolved by the Legislative Assembly of the State of Oregon:
That we, the members of the Eighty-third Legislative Assembly, recognize and honor John
McArdle for his extraordinary leadership and service to the City of Independence and the people
of the State of Oregon.
Enrolled Senate Concurrent Resolution 18 (SCR 18-INTRO) Page 1
Adopted by Senate March 4, 2025
Obadiah Rutledge, Secretary of Senate
Rob Wagner, President of Senate
Adopted by House May 14, 2025
Julie Fahey, Speaker of House
Enrolled Senate Concurrent Resolution 18 (SCR 18-INTRO) Page 2