Sid Leiken's record towards revitalizing a once timber dependent city into a vibrant and sophisticated economy has put Springfield into poll position when our economy begins a comeback.

Creating Jobs
Sid knows that the best way to strengthen struggling local communities is through new, good-paying jobs. That’s what he’s done as mayor of this once struggling, timber-dependent community. In his role, Sid’s helped attract a brand-new, world-class hospital with 386 beds and 2,500 jobs to Springfield. He’s also brought other employers like Oregon Medical Labs, Caribbean Cruises, computer anti-virus software maker Symatec, and several others who have grown Springfield’s local job base.

Improving Our Roads and Transportation System
Working with other advocates for improving local roads and transportation, Sid helped secure support and funding for the newly opened I-5/Beltline interchange. He also helped pioneer a path for expanded mass transit options for the region through Lane Transit District’s EmX expansion. These projects will unclog congested and troubled areas to better support local commuters and facilitate job growth.

Successful and Innovative Small Businessman
Sid is a successful small businessman who grew his local dry cleaning business from one to four locations before selling the Lane and Douglas county based locations so he could concentrate on public service and launch his consulting firm. In building his business he proved innovative and visionary by implementing sustainability practice before most even know what they were. Some might say that Sid was “green” before green was cool. Sid’s experiences taught him the day-to-day challenges of owning and operating a business, working with employees, providing for local families, and the concerns that keep business owners up at night.