Medford appoints Winter to City Council

It was a short meeting – just four minutes long – but it included some important business.

The Medford City Council approved the resignation of former councilor Craig Helgeson, who stepped down to become chief of the Medford Fire Department, then appointed his successor.

Jason Winter was the only applicant for the position, City Administrator Elizabeth Jackson told council members.

“Jason’s term will only be for the calendar year of 2024,” she said. “He’ll have to file to run again at the regular election this fall if he wants another term.”

Helgeson was elected in November 2022; his term would have expired in 2026.

Winter was one of four candidates vying for two open council seats in the 2022 election. Helgeson and Nick Sorensen were elected. Winter was defeated by just three votes.

After his appointment at last week’s special meeting, Winter said he’s excited to contribute to the community and the city council.

Though he admitted he was “kind of surprised” to be the lone applicant for the vacancy, Winter realizes the position has the potential to be difficult – and he’s ready for it.

“Hopefully, I’ll get re-elected (in November), because I’m planning to run,” he said.

Winter said during the 2022 race that he was running “to bring a different view to all issues that come up in the city and make common sense decisions that best benefit the citizens of Medford.

“I want to see this town successfully grow, but in the right way,” he continued. “I enjoy the small-town atmosphere, but also understand it needs to grow. It’s a balancing act.”

Winter’s first meeting as a city councilor is Jan. 22.