Independence Mayor · Nov 3, 2026
Kate
Schwarzler
Kate Schwarzler, the incumbent, is running for mayor of Independence in the Nov 3, 2026 election, against Barrett Nutsch.
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The race · Mayor
- 01Barrett Nutsch
- 02Kate SchwarzlerYou’re reading
Background
- About
- Kate Schwarzler is Independence's mayor, a business owner and an instructor at Western Oregon University. She lists prior service on the Independence City Council and Planning Commission.
- Occupation (from candidate statement)
- Business owner
On the record: Kate Schwarzler
3 sourced01Community services and parks fee1 sourced position
Said in a September 2026 OPB interview that the parks and museum closed because the referendum removed budgeted fee revenue and that the city did not feel it had other options because reserves had already been spent.
Own statementOPB Think Out Loud · Sep 4, 2026Link
02Interfund loans1 sourced position
Said in a September 2026 OPB interview that money in the water, sewer and transportation funds is restricted and cannot necessarily cover General Fund services.
Own statementOPB Think Out Loud · Sep 4, 2026Link
03Ballot listing1 sourced position
Kate Schwarzler is listed as a candidate for Mayor in the City of Independence’s 2026 election.
Own statementCity of IndependenceLink
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