Ben Bryant Appointed As New City Manager Of Happy Valley (Photo) - 09/01/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ben Bryant Appointed as New City Manager of Happy Valley

Bryant takes over the role on September 1^st

Happy Valley, OR [September 1, 2026] – The Happy Valley City Council has appointed Ben Bryant as the next city manager. Bryant has served as assistant city manager since 2015, overseeing major initiatives like the Happy Valley Library expansion, managing the organization’s administrative team, and guiding strategic planning. Bryant will succeed Jason Tuck, who has led the city for more than 20 years. In making this appointment, the city council sought to provide leadership continuity as Happy Valley continues to provide high-quality services to the community.

“Ben has served our residents with professionalism and integrity for more than a decade,” said Mayor Tom Ellis. “He understands our organization, our community and the values that make Happy Valley such a special place. We are confident that under his leadership, the city will continue to thrive.”

Bryant holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Kansas and a Bachelor of Arts in economics from Willamette University. Before joining the City of Happy Valley, he served as a management analyst and later as economic development manager for the City of Tualatin. He has remained active in the city management profession throughout his career and was selected by his peers to serve on the Board of Directors for the Oregon City/County Management Association.

“I’m greatly humbled and excited to serve the residents of Happy Valley in this new role,” said Bryant. “During my time here, we have accomplished so much because of the dedication of our employees, the leadership of our city council and the engagement of our community. I look forward to building on that strong foundation as we continue to plan for the future.”

Bryant’s tenure as city manager begins on September 1, 2026.

###

City Of Happy Valley Celebrates The Opening Of Scouters Mountain Neighborhood Park (Photo) (Photo) - 08/11/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

City of Happy Valley Celebrates the Opening of Scouters Mountain Neighborhood Park

The new park offers residents recreational opportunities with a view of Mt. Hood

Happy Valley, OR [August 11, 2026] – Today, the City of Happy Valley celebrated the grand opening of its newest recreational space, Scouters Mountain Neighborhood Park located at 10478 SE Hornaday Avenue. The new park features an all-abilities playground, mobility charging station, tennis/pickleball court, picnic shelter, restrooms and walking trails. Additionally, there is a dog park for Happy Valley’s furriest residents.

To mark the occasion, the City of Happy Valley hosted a grand opening celebration. The family-friendly event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, brief remarks from Mayor Tom Ellis and fun activities for kids hosted by the city’s Parks & Recreation staff. Brain Freeze Shave Ice Bar provided shaved ice to attendees.

“Our residents have shown time and time again their love and appreciation for our parks and trails,” said Mayor Tom Ellis. “Through their support of our Parks & Recreation Levy, we are able to continue building and maintaining these important community spaces that provide recreational opportunities for everyone.” 

The City of Happy Valley is committed to creating accessible places for all community members. Every city-managed park in Happy Valley features an all-abilities playground, and multiple trails within city boundaries are ADA accessible.

###

City Of Happy Valley To Host Grand Opening Event For Newest Community Park - 08/10/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

City of Happy Valley to Celebrate the Opening of Scouters Mountain Neighborhood Park

The new park offers residents recreational opportunities with a view of Mt. Hood

Happy Valley, OR [August 10, 2026] – Today, the City of Happy Valley announces an upcoming celebration for the grand opening of its newest recreational space, Scouters Mountain Neighborhood Park. The new park will feature an all-abilities playground, mobility charging station, tennis/pickleball court, picnic shelter, restrooms and walking trails. Additionally, there will be a dog park for Happy Valley’s furriest residents.

To mark the occasion, the City of Happy Valley will host a grand opening celebration on Tuesday, August 11 at 10:00 am. The family-friendly event will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony, brief remarks from Mayor Tom Ellis and fun activities for kids hosted by the city’s Parks & Recreation staff.

“Our residents have shown time and time again their love and appreciation for our parks and trails,” said Mayor Tom Ellis. “Through their support of our Parks & Recreation Levy, we are able to continue building and maintaining these important community spaces that provide recreational opportunities for everyone.”  

Event Details:

·       What: Scouters Mountain Neighborhood Park Grand Opening

·       When: Tuesday, August 11 from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

·       Where: Scouters Mountain Neighborhood Park – 10478 SE Hornaday Avenue, Happy Valley

·       Interview Opportunities: Elected officials from the City of Happy Valley

·       Photo Opportunities: Ribbon cutting ceremony, remarks, children’s activities

The City of Happy Valley is committed to creating accessible places for all community members. Every city-managed park in Happy Valley features an all-abilities playground, and multiple trails within city boundaries are ADA accessible.

###

Happy Valley's National Night Out Returns Thursday With First Responders, Community Connections, Live Music And Copter 30 (Photo) - 08/06/26

One of Happy Valley's favorite summer traditions returns tonight Thursday, August 6, as Happy Valley Park comes alive from 6:30 p.m. until dark for National Night Out/First Responder Night 2026. The free community celebration honors first responders, strengthens neighborhood connections, and celebrates the partnerships that help keep Happy Valley safe. The event will continue as scheduled as smoke conditions continue to clear and air quality steadily improves, with City staff monitoring conditions throughout the day to help ensure a safe and enjoyable evening for everyone.

Held in conjunction with the City's Concerts in the Valley series, this free, family-friendly event gives residents a chance to connect directly with the people and organizations that serve Happy Valley every day.

Hosted by Happy Valley Parks and Recreation and proudly sponsored by Parr Lumber, National Night Out will bring together the Happy Valley Police Department, Clackamas County Sheriff's Office, Clackamas Fire District #1, the Oregon National Guard, and a variety of community safety partners.

Clackamas Fire will also introduce Copter 30 to the public. Copter 30 is a on call Type 3 wildland helicopter dedicated to the initial attack of emerging brush and vegetation fires. This is a special opportunity for residents to see an important firefighting tool up close and learn how it supports rapid wildfire response - you won't want to miss it.

Throughout the evening, families can explore emergency vehicles, meet first responders, visit interactive safety booths, ask questions, and learn more about local programs and resources. Children can also take part in the Safety Passport Challenge by visiting participating booths and collecting stamps. The first 100 children to complete the passport will receive a free hot dog, while supplies last.

Live music by Slicker will be part of the evening's Concerts in the Valley entertainment, giving neighbors another opportunity to gather, relax, and enjoy the park together. Food and beverages, including beer and wine, will be available for purchase from local vendors.

Near the end of the evening, performers from The Hive will make a brief appearance featuring aerial silk arts.

Residents are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs, invite their neighbors, and join the City for an evening centered on community, safety, and appreciation for those who serve.

Parking is available at Happy Valley Elementary and Happy Valley Middle School. Outside alcohol is not permitted.

For additional event information, visit hv.city/nno.