West Linn’s Youngest City Councilor
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In last fall’s election, Rory Bialostosky BA ’22 won his city council race in West Linn, Oregon. Coming in first in a field of 10 candidates, Bialostosky is the youngest city councilor in West Linn history. The international affairs major will continue his studies at Lewis & Clark while serving his four-year term on the city council.
“As a 21-year-old college student, I really wanted to break down the age barrier and inspire young people across the state to get involved in their communities,” says Bialostosky. “My city is facing many pressing issues over the next few years, and I offer a fresh perspective that I think the community can get behind.”
Bialostosky has been politically active in his hometown since high school, where he advocated for greater student access to parking and increased transparency from the city council. He hopes to continue this advocacy from his elected position and increase local involvement in politics from all community members.
“Lewis & Clark helped me develop the critical thinking and advocacy skills needed to tackle the complex issues and challenges that come with being an elected official,” says Bialostosky. “I ran because I have a vision for moving the city forward, making progress, making it a place where everyone feels safe.”
—by Yancee Gordon BA ’21
