GRESHAM, Ore. – At the upcoming business meeting on April 1 at 6 p.m., the Gresham City Council will formally designate the Oregon Slender Salamander as the City’s official amphibian. Mayor Travis Stovall will make the official announcement, recognizing the dedication and civic engagement of students at Hogan Cedars Elementary School, who led the campaign and conducted a schoolwide vote to select the amphibian. 

“The Oregon Slender Salamander is a rare and fascinating species, thriving in part due to Gresham’s commitment to preserving its natural resources and habitats,” said Mayor Stovall. “Beyond celebrating this unique amphibian, we are proud to acknowledge the hard work and enthusiasm of Hogan Cedars students, who demonstrated leadership and civic participation throughout this process.” 

Earlier this month, Hogan Cedars Elementary hosted an assembly introducing students to local amphibians and their critical role in the ecosystem. Following the event, students cast their votes, ultimately selecting the Oregon Slender Salamander as the species most deserving of official recognition. 

Once believed to inhabit only the Cascade Mountains, the Oregon Slender Salamander (Batrachoseps wrighti) was first documented in Gresham in 2008 when a group of AmeriCorps volunteers discovered one in the Kelly Creek area. Subsequent searches revealed a thriving population in natural spaces and residential backyards across the city. 

The Oregon Slender Salamander spends most of its life underground and plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling insect populations. Amphibians, including salamanders, frogs, and newts, contribute significantly to Gresham’s biodiversity by helping to manage pests and maintain the health of local wetlands. 

About Gresham: 

Gresham is a vibrant and growing city where tradition blends seamlessly with innovation and opportunity. As Oregon's fourth-largest city, our community is built on a foundation of hard work, deep roots in agriculture, and a shared commitment to creating a thriving future. Discover more about what makes Gresham special by visiting GreshamOregon.gov. 

### 

GRESHAM, Ore. – Nearly a year after suffering critical injuries in the line of duty, Gresham Firefighter Spencer Tejedas is making his return to work. On Monday, March 31, Tejedas will be welcomed back by his fellow firefighters in a moment of camaraderie at the Gresham Fire Training Center (19204 N.E. San Rafael) at approximately 7:45 a.m. 

Media is invited to capture this special homecoming. Assistant Chief Jeff Hairston and Firefighter Tejedas will be available for interviews.  

"Spencer’s return is nothing short of extraordinary," said Chief Derik Minard. "His courage, perseverance, and dedication to this department and community are an inspiration to us all. We are incredibly proud to welcome him back." 

Tejedas will be returning in an administrative role with the training academy.  Drawing from his experience, he will mentor new recruits in the upcoming training academy. 

Firefighter Tejedas sustained his injuries on May 30, 2024, when the Gresham Fire Department and Portland Fire and Rescue responded to the reports of a duplex on fire. It was a complex response as the nature of the fire quickly evolved and during the process of the response, three firefighters were injured. Two of the firefighters were treated and released, however, Tejedas suffered severe burns on over 45% of his body.   

If members of the media would like to attend, please R.S.V.P. to Sarah.Cagann@GreshamOregon.gov.  

About Gresham: 

Gresham is a vibrant and growing city where tradition blends seamlessly with innovation and opportunity. As Oregon's fourth-largest city, our community is built on a foundation of hard work, deep roots in agriculture, and a shared commitment to creating a thriving future. Discover more about what makes Gresham special by visiting GreshamOregon.gov. 

### 

GRESHAM, Ore. – The City of Gresham is proud to announce that Derik Minard has been appointed as the permanent Fire Chief following his tenure as Interim Fire Chief since January 2025. With decades of experience and a steadfast commitment to public safety, Chief Minard is well-positioned to lead the Gresham Fire Department forward and will be sworn in as Fire Chief on April 1 at 6 p.m. during the City Council business meeting.

“In my time working with Chief Minard, I have been continually impressed by his strong leadership, extensive expertise, and dedication to both his team and the community,” said Gresham City Manager Eric Schmidt. “His vision and experience make him the right person to guide the department forward, and we are fortunate to have him in this role.” 

Minard’s appointment follows a thorough national search conducted in partnership with Workplace Change, launched after former Fire Chief Scott Lewis announced his retirement.  

The selection process was highly competitive, with 40 candidates undergoing two rounds of screening interviews. Finalists then participated in a full day of interviews, which included a panel of external Fire Chiefs from six regional fire departments. 

Reflecting on his leadership philosophy, Chief Minard shared, “The success of this department is measured by the morale, growth, and well-being of our firefighters and emergency responders. When people ask about my legacy, my answer is simple—it’s about the people.” 

Bringing 34 years of fire service experience, Minard has previously served as Fire Chief in Westminster, Colorado, and Savannah, Georgia. Throughout his career, he has held every rank within the fire service and earned a Master of Science in Leadership and a Bachelor of Science in Public Safety Administration. He is also a certified Executive Fire Officer (EFO) through the National Fire Academy. 

About Gresham: 

Gresham is a vibrant and growing city where tradition blends seamlessly with innovation and opportunity. As Oregon's fourth-largest city, our community is built on a foundation of hard work, deep roots in agriculture, and a shared commitment to creating a thriving future. Discover more about what makes Gresham special by visiting GreshamOregon.gov. 

### 

GRESHAM, Ore. – The City of Gresham has officially recognized the remarkable contributions of former Mayor Shane Bemis, a visionary leader whose influence continues to shape the community. In a unanimous decision on March 17, the Gresham City Council approved renaming Hogan Butte Nature Park to Shane T. Bemis Nature Park—a tribute to his enduring legacy.  

The following day, during the annual State of the City address, Bemis was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award, solidifying his place as a foundational figure in Gresham's history. 

"Mayor Bemis propelled this community forward with tireless dedication, and today, we stand on the foundation he built," said Gresham Mayor Travis Stovall. "Many of the achievements we celebrate today are part of the vision and legacy he set forth for Gresham, and as a City, we want to thank him." 

Bemis served as Gresham's Mayor from 2007 to 2020, following his term as a City Councilor from 2003 to 2007. His tenure was defined by a forward-thinking approach to economic development, enhanced public safety, and a commitment to community well-being. From revitalizing the city's economic landscape to expanding public spaces that strengthen neighborhood connections, Bemis's influence is woven into the fabric of Gresham. 

"Hogan Butte Nature Park offers some of the most stunning views in our region, so it was only fitting to rename it and pay tribute to such a visionary leader,” said Gresham City Manager Eric Schmidt. "Not only do these efforts ensure his legacy endures, but they also serve as an inspiration to future generations on the importance of building a strong community." 

Renaming the park and honoring Bemis with a Lifetime Achievement Award are significant gestures that reflect the City's appreciation for a leader who dedicated nearly two decades to making Gresham a vibrant, thriving place to live and work. These acknowledgments are enduring reminders of the power of visionary leadership and the impact of dedicated public service. 

About Gresham: 

Gresham is a vibrant and growing city where tradition blends seamlessly with innovation and opportunity. As Oregon's fourth-largest city, our community is built on a foundation of hard work, deep roots in agriculture, and a shared commitment to creating a thriving future. Discover more about what makes Gresham special by visiting GreshamOregon.gov. 

###