What could we accomplish by remodeling our existing library and rethinking how library services are delivered? We've been visiting other libraries lately, and it's been insightful. Seeing how other communities provide library services gives us ideas to consider as Lake Oswego decides what it wants from its library in the future. West Linn's Public Library is one example worth exploring. Its remodeled building is attractive and welcoming, and it offers a variety of spaces and

What we learned from the LOSD Superintendent at the September 26 Neighborhood Association Chairs meeting I think many of us were surprised when Lake Oswego School District Superintendent Dr. Schiele shared this statistic at the September 26, 2026, Neighborhood Association Chairs (NCC) meeting: About 75% of Lake Oswego households do not have children enrolled in the school district. That’s a striking reminder that Lake Oswego is a community with many residents who are aging in

Blog updated October 25 after hearing all the candidates speak at the Candidate Forum on October 23 The November 3 election will bring significant change to the Lake Oswego City Council. Four of the Council’s seven seats are open, and six candidates are running to fill them. The decisions the City Councilors make will affect your neighborhood and your property taxes for decades. Effective Councilors need to understand the details, ask good questions, proactively seek out d

There are currently no final plans, no final building size, no final site and, most importantly, no final cost for a new Lake Oswego library. But we can make some reasonable comparisons to understand the potential magnitude of the investment. I asked three financial experts I know who live in LO and who I have volunteered with: what could a new library cost? I'm starting this discussion because I believe that we need to know the cost implications and estimates and trade-o

Now that I’m retired, that question feels a little funny because no one ever asked me: “How did you like having summers off?” “How did you like college?” Retirement, for me, is F U N. It feels a lot like college again. Every day there’s something meaningful to learn or do. A little “PE.” A few chores. And a lot more freedom for adventures, volunteering, and spending time with my people. But retirement is not just fun. It’s a major life transition. And your neighbors and nei