Parks Commision Position 1

Mike Gardiner

Fer Mejia

What is your personal experience in the watershed and its trail network?

Mike

I am a hiker more than a biker. So my experience is mostly on foot. I have worked with APRC to acquire parcels of land to improve trail connections and help expand the trail system in our watershed. I have also listened to many ideas and concerns from others regarding our trail system.

Fer

I have a deep familiarity with the watershed trail network, as an avid mountain biker, trail runner, and hiker. Being outdoors is a true passion of mine, and you’ll often find me on the trails- whether I’m out for a ride with my husband or teaching a Devo class.

How do you see the role of outdoor recreation in our local economy and what specifically, if anything, would you propose the city do to foster it?

Mike

I am a strong supporter of outdoor activities. Golf, pickleball, tennis, soccer, little league, bike riding and hiking help make for a favorable experience for Ashland citizens. Ashland Parks and Recreation provides all of these activities, and more, to our citizens and visitors. The quality of our parks and open spaces is what separates our community from other cities our size. The role of parks commissioner as an advocate for is most important. Allocating our financial resources strategically and with purpose allows us to sustain this important component of our community: Outdoor activities.

Fer

Ashland is quickly emerging as a premier destination for outdoor activities like mountain biking, trail running, and skiing. Numerous magazines have highlighted Ashland as one of the top outdoors towns to visit in the country. We should leverage this recognition to attract more outdoor enthusiast, which could significantly boost the town’s revenue and economic growth.

What is your position on expanding the mountain bike and hiking trail network on City land? If you support an increase in trails, how specifically would you work to accomplish this?

Mike

I believe that there are many opportunities to improve and expand our trails network. I worked on the 2016 update of the city’s Trails Masterplan (part of the city’s comprehensive plan) and am aware of possible additions to this system. I do not have any specific plans at this time. Land acquisition and easements will always be an important component of a trails expansion plan.

Fer

I am a strong advocate for expanding our mountain biking and hiking trail network. I’m committed to collaborating with my fellow commissioners to engage and gain the support of Ashland’s citizens in making this vision a reality.

Youth mountain biking is gaining popularity in Ashland but access to mountain biking trails for all ability levels remains extremely limited. What is your position on the Glenwood Hillside Trail Proposal http://records.ashland.or.us/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=137247&dbid=0&repo=CITY-RECORDS which would give more access to beginners, improve safety on Winburn Way, and link the watershed trails to downtown where riders can access our local businesses post-ride?

Mike

I have not taken a position on this proposal yet. I have listened to parts of both the proponents and the opponents opinions of this project. If elected I will spend much more time evaluating the proposal.

Fer

I have been coaching youth mountain biking to kids since the inception of DEVO. The mission of this organization is to inspire wellness in our youth by building grit, resiliency and camaraderie through mountain biking. I’ve taught a variety of ages, but one thing remains constant, our watershed provides amazing advanced trails to ride, but really no trails on which a beginner can learn to ride on a dirt trail that is at a beginner's level. So yes, I am all for this new trail being built that will not only be good for beginners but also for the safety of our downhill bike traffic into downtown.

What else would you like us to know regarding your goals if you are elected?

Mike

Thank you for allowing me to share my thoughts. I believe that there are many opportunities to improve the parks and recreation system in Ashland. The new director will help guide the organization forward in this improvement. I also sense an improved relationship between the city council and the parks commission. If it truly exists, then we all will benefit as our city works together to build a stronger and resilient community.

Fer

I believe that our parks should be accessible and welcoming for everyone, and I’m committed to ensuring they remain inclusive, safe, and sustainable for generations to come.
I’m passionate about making sure that every Ashland resident, regardless of background or ability, has the opportunity to experience the joy and beauty of our natural spaces.
Some of the goals include increasing events in our parks, supporting the Lithia Artisan’s Market, and expanding the holiday lights display beyond Main Street.