Philomath — The Philomath City Council voted to adopt Resolution 25‑26 denouncing violence on Dec. 8 after a substantive debate about wording and scope.

Councilor Caseman moved to adopt the resolution as presented in the meeting packet. Debate focused on whether the resolution should explicitly address “political violence” and include language about surveillance or law‑enforcement practices. Some councilors argued the resolution should remain a clear, concise denouncement of physical violence aimed at preserving civil discourse; others sought edits to call out specific forms of politically motivated coercion or to clarify the city’s stance on punitive surveillance.

Councilor Andrade proposed amendments to limit the resolution to physical, politically motivated violence; that amendment — which would have incorporated edits from an email earlier in the day — was put to a vote and failed on a 4–3 count. After additional discussion, the council adopted the resolution as presented by a vote reported as six in favor and one opposed.

Opponents and supporters both stressed they value the police department and public safety. Councilor Crocker said she was “proud of our police,” while other councilors noted the resolution’s goal was to protect the ability of citizens to participate in civic life without fear of physical attack or intimidation. The resolution’s final wording (adopted in the packet version) emphasizes the importance of free speech and civil discourse and denounces violence that chills civic engagement.

The measure does not create new local enforcement authority or funding; it is a formal expression of the council’s stance intended to reaffirm civic norms and condemn politically motivated violence.

Vote: Resolution 25‑26 adopted (ayes 6, nays 1).