Sublimity Councilman Greg Atkin recently resigned his seat after serving two and a half years of a four-year term.
One of the best highlights of his position has been “working for the citizens of Sublimity and the city’s awesome staff,” Atkin said.
“Many residents are unaware of the excellent work we receive from our city employees to keep our town safe and an enjoyable place to live and raise our families,” he added. “I have had the pleasure to work with a city council, mayor and city staff to help ensure that Sublimity residents have a safe place to live and prosper.”
The city looks after local interests using limited tax dollars and local monies allotted for city residents, he said.
Atkin has been on the council since January 2019.
“I have overseen the local Marion County Sheriff’s Office contract during my time on the council, and working with Deputy Tom Barber has been very enjoyable as he brings a wealth of knowledge to his position as Sublimity’s town deputy,” said Atkin.
He also helped update the city website, which incorporates a large amount of information that can be accessed by smart phones, tablets and computers. City ordinances will also be online to provide information to residents about city operations, he said.
“A big shout out to Katie Scott, our city recorder, for all her efforts on this project,” Atkin said. “The website will be online soon.”
Mayor Jim Kingsbury commended Atkin for working tirelessly for the city of Sublimity.
“As a city councilman in charge of law enforcement and emergency management, when the COVID pandemic hit, Greg spearheaded the effort to make masks,” Kingsbury said.
“And when the deadly forest fires ravaged our region, Greg stepped up to help with the Knights of Columbus and the Santiam Wildfire Relief effort. When the ice storm hit this past spring, Greg helped us clear the streets and parks.”
Atkin retired from the Oregon Department of Corrections seven years ago. He was able to volunteer over 2,000 hours last year with the Santiam Service Integration on COVID-19 and wildfire projects. Atkin said he hopes neighbors who have time or resources will give their support to “this amazing team of individuals.”
Atkin plans to continue volunteering as time allows on local projects to be a “neighbor that helps their neighbors.”
“Please take the time to attend a city council meeting either virtually or in person,” he said. “It takes a village to make Sublimity the home we all want. Get to know your neighbors. Stay safe.”
Atkin and his wife, Linda, have lived in Stayton/Sublimity for over 34 years and have been married 40 years. They have two daughters and three granddaughters who live in Oregon. Atkin has also served for over 20 years as a volunteer firefighter and paid/volunteer EMT for the Sublimity Fire District.
If interested in filling the council seat left vacant, contact the Sublimity City Hall at 503-769-5475.
