Third candidate enters race for Roseburg seat

Another candidate has filed to run for the Roseburg City Council seat held by Stacey Crowe in the November election, setting up a three-way race.

As of this morning, Crowe had not filed to run for re-election.

On Thursday, Susan Onikama filed to run for the Position 2, Ward 4 seat. She joins former Councilor Mike Baker and newcomer Stephen Dickinson, who filed a week ago.

According to her filing papers, Onikama is the owner of Oak Avenue Counseling. She previously has worked as an administrator with the Department of Defense and for the U.S. Army and Navy. She has served active duty with the Army.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Oregon State University, a master’s of education degree in human services from Boston University and a master’s of social work degree from Portland State University.

Previously, incumbent council member Steve Tuchscherer filed to run to keep his Position 2, Ward 2 seat; incumbent Tom Ryan filed to run for his Position 1, Ward 2 seat; and Mayor Larry Rich has filed to run for re-election.

In the Nov. 4 election, voters also will decide who will fill Position 2 in Ward 1, held by Mel Cheney; and Position 2 in Ward 3, held by Rick Coen.

To run for office, candidates need to file forms in the city recorder’s office, City Hall, 900 S.E. Douglas Ave. The deadline to file is 5 p.m. Aug. 26.

Call to find out more about qualifications and responsibilities of candidates, or about the election process.

Information: City Recorder Sheila Cox, 672-7701, ext. 222.