Meet Linda
I am running to represent Ward 2 because I believe my experience and background can assist me in making Salem an even more livable, healthy, and affordable city.
A Strong History
I have lived in the Willamette Valley most of my life, attending high school in Beaverton, and college in Portland. While at OSHU I met my husband Gary Nishioka, MD, DMD, and after several years moving around the country while he finished his dental and medical training, we settled in Salem (Gary’s hometown) in 1998.
I became active in the community almost immediately after arriving here – first as a volunteer at my son’s schools, and then in environmental projects, including serving on the board of the Straub Environmental Learning Center.
In recent years I have become involved in a variety of efforts focused on making downtown Salem a more sustainable and vibrant community, serving on the City of Salem’s Riverfront Park and Streetscape committees, the Historic Preservation Plan Committee, and the Downtown Advisory Board, and serving on the board of the Salem Main Street Association.
Now that I have retired – after 22 years at Willamette Ear, Nose, Throat & Facial Plastic Surgery! – I am ready for use this experience to help Salem tackle the challenges ahead.
I care deeply for Salem.
Linda’s Priorities
Homelessness and affordable housing are high priorities for Salem. While expanding shelters and transitional options with coordinated support services are already underway the City of Salem will need to continue to locate areas for managed shelters, camps, housing, and funding to support these endeavors. I will support feasible solutions that address this complex problem including support services; and increasing affordable housing to prevent those at risk from slipping into homelessness.
Business development that is responsible, intelligent, and serves the long-term well-being of the community should be encouraged and supported.
A vibrant, attractive, walkable downtown. I have helped to create multiple art and cultural events downtown. I will strive and support artistic beautification efforts. I would like to find ways to bring more tourism to Salem and the greater Willamette Valley.
Maintaining focus on our natural environment. Ensure our parks, trees, pathways are maintained and safe. A city that is environmentally responsible and welcoming to those that call Salem home and to our visitors ensures we can enjoy its beauty.
Get To Know Linda
Education
- University of Oregon Health Sciences Center, Portland, OR – B.S. Dental Hygiene
- Portland State University, Portland, OR – Major Pre-dental hygiene
- Portland Community College, Portland, OR – A.S. Dental Assistant Certificate
Work Experience
- Department Director at Willamette Ear Nose & Throat, for 22 years
- Dental Hygienist, Dental Hygiene Instructor, Dental and Oral Surgery Assistant, for 29 years
Community Service
- Board, Salem Main Street Association
- Past board president, Friends of Straub Environmental Center
- Past Chair for Green Awards
- Master Recycler and Green Team Leader
- Established a “clean” medical waste program in Marion County
- Award recipient “Outreach Recycler of the Year” 2010
Current and Past Government Experience
- City of Salem Downtown Advisory Board – Vice Chair
- Salem Historic Preservation Planning Committee
- City of Salem Riverfront Park Committee
- City of Salem Streetscape Committee
Recreational Activities
- I am a recreational runner and love to run with my friends in local parks and races.
- My husband and I enjoy traveling.
Famous Quotes That Embody Me
To succeed in life, you need two things: Ignorance and Confidence
She believed she could, so she did.
Endoresements
Ward 2 Councilor Tom Andersen
Councilors Vanessa Nordyke: Virginia Stapleton; Trevor Phillips
Mayor Chuck Bennett
Former Mayor Anna Peterson
School Board Vice-Chair Ashley Carson Cottingham
Community leader Hazel Patton
