The Corvallis City Council convened on January 6, 2025, to address several key issues, including the election of a new council vice president and the acceptance of liaison assignments for the upcoming year.

During the meeting, Councilor Ellis was elected as the new council vice president, receiving overwhelming support from fellow council members. The voting results highlighted a strong consensus among the council, reflecting a collaborative spirit as they move forward with their agenda.

The council also discussed the acceptance of liaison assignments for 2025. The mayor emphasized the importance of these roles and the significant time commitment involved in serving on various boards and commissions. Notably, the municipal code limits council members to three consecutive terms on the same advisory board, which affected the eligibility of certain councilors for specific assignments. The mayor expressed appreciation for the dedication shown by council members in their previous roles.

A point of contention arose regarding the Corvallis Action Network (ICANN), which has not met since before the pandemic. The mayor proposed a work session to reassess the board's relevance and goals, indicating a desire for clarity on its future operations. This discussion aims to ensure that advisory boards are effectively contributing to the city's objectives.

In addition to administrative matters, the mayor delivered a somber report on recent community losses, including the passing of former President Jimmy Carter and local councilor Bill York. The mayor also paid tribute to community activist Marjorie Stevens, highlighting her significant contributions to various local initiatives.

The meeting concluded with council members sharing their thoughts and upcoming community events, fostering a sense of unity and commitment to serving the Corvallis community in the year ahead.