Strawser announces run for Nevada City Council

Photo by Bob Lickter Duane Straswer becomes the second candidate for two seats on the Nevada City Council.

“There are several very important issues facing Nevada City in the next few years that are critical to Nevada City's economic future and quality of life, and I would like to be a part in helping to make those decisions,” the press release said.

 The outgoing president of the Nevada City Chamber of Commerce and longtime director of the Nevada City Bicycle Classic has become the second candidate for the Nevada City council elections.

 Duane Strawser, who owns the Tour of Nevada City Bicycle shop in the 7-Hills District, said the city is at a critical crossroads in a press release sent to local media.

“There are several very important issues facing Nevada City in the next few years that are critical to Nevada City's economic future and quality of life, and I would like to be a part in helping to make those decisions,” the press release said.

 Strawser joins incumbent Sally Harris in the election for two seats on the City Council. The election is on June 8.

  In his press release, Strawser cites his 13 years as a chamber board member and three years as board presidents. He is also the local organizer of the 2010 Amgen Tour of California bicycle race, an eight-day, 750-mile race that starts on May 16 in Nevada City.

 “While I will continue to support our Chamber of Commerce, the caliber of the 2010 Nevada City Chamber Board of Directors has allowed me to feel comfortable in stepping aside to shift my priorities to help Nevada City move forward into the future on crucial topics that are outside of the Chamber's general focus. Despite tough economic times, our current City Council and the Chamber have the potential to sustain and create additional positive momentum. I believe I can assist in moving both organizations in that direction.” Strawser said in the press release.

 Strawser also said in the press release that he plans to run a low-key campaign.

 “I feel the people of Nevada City and Nevada County know me and what I stand for. If they think I'm the best person for this position, then my past and current efforts and accomplishments will stand on their own and I feel confident that I will earn their votes,” he said in the press release.

In announcing her candidacy, Harris said that “people love it here and don’t want it to change too much. I want to protect it and preserve it while enhancing our financial position.”

 Harris was first elected to the council in 2004.

 Nevada City Deputy City Clerk Corey Shaver says city council candidates can file to run from Feb. 16 to March 12 unless an incumbent decides not to seek re-election. The filing period is then extended to March 17.