Port leader files for Roblan's seat

COOS BAY -- Caddy McKeown became the first to enter the race for state House District 9 this morning.
 
The 59-year-old Democrat willfocus on education and jobs during her campaign for the district, which begins just north of Bandon and stretches along the coast to Yachats.
 
'It's all about the health of families and community," McKeown said.
 
Rep. Arnie Roblan announced last week he will run for Sen. Joanne Verger's Senate District 5 seat after Verger announced her retirement.  'As a former teacher and principal who always put our kids first, I can say that there is no one better to take my place in the Oregon House," Roblan said of McKeown.
 
McKeown grew up in the Bay Area, graduated from Marshfield High School, left for school, married her high school sweetheart, Jeff McKeown, and returned when their children were babies.
 
She became involved in the schools through her two children. She served on the Coos Bay School Board and the Belloni Ranch board, and she has done work with the Oregon Community Foundation. She is vice president of the Oregon International Port of Coos Bay's board of commissioners, and served eight years on the Energy Trust of Oregon's board.
 
McKeown said the community should take advantage of its resources, such as the deep-water port and newly re-established rail line. More jobs means more revenue, which means more money for education, she added.
 
Looking at today's school district enrollment numbers, it's apparent families are not finding jobs they need to stay, she said. 'And what that tells you is that we have an opportunity to move toward a more healthy, viable community."
 
Members of the Oregon House of Representatives are paid $21,612 a year, plus $109 a day for expenses during the session.

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