The Roseburg City Council convened on October 28, 2024, to address significant concerns regarding the leadership of City Manager Nikki Messenger. The meeting featured public comments from several community members, including former city officials, who expressed strong support for Messenger and raised alarms about potential actions to terminate her employment.

The first speaker, a former public works director, praised Messenger's intelligence and dedication to the city, highlighting her initiatives that align with council goals, such as the urban growth boundary swap. This speaker emphasized the importance of her leadership and the disappointment the community would feel if she were to be dismissed.

Bob Carrell, a former Ward 3 City Councilor and police officer, echoed these sentiments, describing Messenger as the best city manager he has worked with. He raised concerns about the implications of firing her without cause, noting the potential financial burden on the city due to her severance package and the challenges of recruiting a suitable replacement. Carrell warned that such an action could lead to low morale among city employees and disrupt the effective management of city operations.

Another speaker, Bryce Perkins, a former public works director, discussed the need for a robust performance appraisal system for the city manager. He highlighted the complexity of the city manager's role, likening it to that of a CEO managing multiple departments. Perkins suggested that clear performance measures are essential for evaluating the city manager's effectiveness.

The discussions underscored a strong community sentiment in favor of maintaining Messenger's leadership, with multiple speakers urging the council to reconsider any motions to terminate her. The meeting concluded with a clear call for the council to prioritize stability and support for the city manager, reflecting the broader concerns of the community regarding governance and operational continuity.

As the council moves forward, the implications of their decisions regarding Messenger's position will likely resonate throughout the city, affecting not only city operations but also community trust and morale.