The Crescent City Council voted 3–1 to appoint planning commissioner Steve Shamblyn to the vacant City Council seat, effective upon his signing the oath and continuing through certification of the Nov. 2026 general election.

The appointment followed formal interviews with the two finalists for the seat vacated Oct. 21 by Darren Dooley. Shamblyn summarized decades of experience in aerospace, public-health program oversight and local planning work, telling the council he has chaired the Crescent City Planning Commission and the Measure S budget oversight committee and prioritizes downtown revitalization, infrastructure improvements and bringing more moderate‑income housing to the downtown core.

The vacancy process was described by staff as a routine appointment to fill the position until voters choose a replacement next year. During deliberations, council members split on which background best fit the council’s near‑term needs: some favored Shamblyn’s planning and Measure S oversight experience while others highlighted rival candidate Noya Reno’s emergency‑services background and community ties.

Reno, a long‑time local volunteer and emergency responder, emphasized continuity on the Third Street project and said she would press for long‑term housing and services for people experiencing homelessness and overdose‑prevention programs if appointed. When a council member asked about a social‑media link that listed Medford, Oregon, Reno responded, “I live in Crescent City. I literally live 3 blocks away from here,” and explained she had used Medford on social media previously because of a stalking concern.

Kevin Hendrick, a member of the public who said he is not a Crescent City resident, urged the council to base the decision on experience and qualifications and endorsed Shamblyn at the public comment period: “I urge you to, appoint Steve Shamblyn, to fill this city council seat.”

Councilmember Altman cast the deciding vote in favor of Shamblyn; Councilmember Greenough voted no. The motion to appoint was moved and seconded; the council then directed staff to complete the procedural steps for the appointee to take office.

Shamblyn’s term runs until certification of the Nov. 2026 general election, at which point the seat will be filled by the election results or further council action if necessary.