Hermiston City Council Candidates to Face Off in April 19 Forum

All four ward seats are up for election in the May 19 vote.

Mar. 26, 2026 at 5:00am

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Candidates for the Hermiston City Council will participate in a forum on April 19 at Hermiston City Hall. The event, hosted by the Hermiston Chamber of Commerce, the city of Hermiston, and local radio station KOHU, will allow residents to hear directly from those running for the four ward seats on the council. KOHU's Angela Pursel will moderate the forum, which will not take questions from the audience.

Why it matters

The Hermiston City Council plays a crucial role in shaping the policies and direction of the community. This forum provides an opportunity for residents to learn about the candidates and their platforms ahead of the May 19 election, allowing them to make informed decisions about the future leadership of Hermiston.

The details

The forum will feature candidates for all four ward seats on the Hermiston City Council. In Ward 1, incumbent Jackie Linton is facing challenger Krista Van Veen. Ward 2 incumbent Roy Barron is being challenged by Caleb Jacobs. The Ward 3 seat is open, with Barbara Martin and Leeann Wornell running to succeed the retiring Jackie Myers. And in Ward 4, incumbent David McCarthy is being challenged by Manuel Flores III.

  • The forum will take place on April 19, 2026 at 6 p.m. at Hermiston City Hall.
  • The Hermiston City Council election is scheduled for May 19, 2026.

The players

Jackie Linton

Incumbent Hermiston City Council member running for the Ward 1 seat.

Krista Van Veen

Challenger for the Hermiston City Council Ward 1 seat.

Roy Barron

Incumbent Hermiston City Council member running for the Ward 2 seat.

Caleb Jacobs

Challenger for the Hermiston City Council Ward 2 seat.

Barbara Martin

Candidate for the open Hermiston City Council Ward 3 seat.

Leeann Wornell

Candidate for the open Hermiston City Council Ward 3 seat.

David McCarthy

Incumbent Hermiston City Council member running for the Ward 4 seat.

Manuel Flores III

Challenger for the Hermiston City Council Ward 4 seat.

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What they’re saying

“This is a great opportunity for the community to come and hear directly from those running for city council. This is the time for people to learn who is running and who may be making decisions for our community.”

— Hoxie

What’s next

The Hermiston City Council election will take place on May 19, 2026.

The takeaway

The upcoming Hermiston City Council forum provides a valuable opportunity for residents to engage with the candidates and make informed decisions about the future leadership of their community.