Two apply for council seat

The Cathlamet Town Council interviewed two applicants to fill a vacant seat on the council last night (Wednesday) after The Eagle had gone to press.

Mayor Dick Swart said Tuesday that the council might appoint one of the persons to fill the vacancy; he had originally suggested the appointment be at the council's next regular meeting next Monday.

The candidates are Ruth Doumit and former mayor and council member Bob Rendler.

An artist, Doumit has lived and operated businesses of several kinds in Cathlamet for 35 years. She has been active in the county fair, historical society, Red Cross and American Cancer Society. She has volunteered in programs for Relay for Life and Wahkiakum FFA, Wahkiakum Community Network and local schools.

She ran as a write-in candidate in the general election last November.

"I have always had a great love for Cathlamet and am finally in a position where I feel I have the time and desire for a commitment to the preservation and growth of Cathlamet," she said in a letter of application.

"While running as a write-in candidate, my concerns were the fire siren, which, I am happy to see, is now back in use, as it is needed for the safety of our community; our timberland; we must preserve and use wisely, and our waterfront. People come here for the pristine beauty of our land."

Rendler served 7 1/2 years on the council, 3 1/2 as mayor.

"I am a Certified Municipal Leader," he wrote in his letter of application. "I am a team player, work well with others, and a hard worker. I would bring with me to the position honesty, integrity, commitment and leadership.

"I've lived in Cathlamet for 13 years, moving to the community with my wife, Rose, after my retirement from the University of California at Berkeley. I appreciate my town very much and enjoy the area. I would be committed to work with you and the council for the continued successes of local government for the benefit of all its citizens."