Former Councilmember Dee Cragun poses wearing a jacket bearing the city logo, accompanied by one of her grandsons. Photo taken December 20th, 2023 after Dee’s last city council meeting.
Helen “Dee” Cragun passed away this week. The former City Councilmember is well remembered by family, friends, and community. She was a dedicated and passionate advocate for the city. Our condolences to the Cragun family and loved ones.
During the last city council meeting of 2023, Jim Scholz thanked Cragun for her work and listed some of the many accomplishments during her 26 years on the council. Below is a video from that meeting.
Below are articles that mention Cragun and the many things she was involved in.
City Council Fears Inslee
Arguments regarding a resolution about Governor Inslee’s emergency powers were heard from city council members during the last Deer Park council meeting. However, ultimately the fear of retribution was the deciding factor in the vote.
Councilmember Resigns & Mural Painting Approved
Councilmember Ron Scholz has resigned due to job relocation. The Council was given short notice to decide to spend extra money to paint a mural on the new 6th Street Water Tower.
Replacing Ron Scholz Moving Forward
Filling the vacancy left by Ron Scholz and the process to be used has been decided by the Deer Park City Council. The City of Deer Park will accept applications for just a short time in order to meet the legal deadline. With Councilmember Ron Scholz’s resignation, a short window of ninety days exists for the council to appoint a replacement.
Advancing City Communications
Recently a survey was distributed to Deer Park civilians primarily through the mail with water and sewer bills. The topic was communication with the city. Councilmember Caleb Stapp pointed out that the delivery method may have skewed the results as it targets a specific demographic.
Quick Bits – Deer Park City Council Meeting
During the last Deer Park City Council meeting, several issues were addressed briefly. These issues regarded pedestrian ramps, COVID emergency powers, inflation regarding the annual fireworks budget, and repairs completed in parks.
New Council Member Appointed
Nearing the deadline, the Deer Park City Council has made an appointment to fill the vacancy left by Ron Scholz. Originally ten residents applied for the open position. The council opted to interview only three candidates, James Scholz, Nicholas Minzghor, and Naomi Diaz.
