Erik S Schuttpelz

VPS - Primary

Occupation: Farm Equipment Sales and Service Manager, Retired Coast Guardsman, Special Needs Parent

Occupational Background: U.S. Coast Guard Senior Chief Petty Officer

Educational Background: Diploma, West Albany High School

Prior Governmental Experience: None

I am a 6th generation Oregonian, special needs parent, and military veteran. I have always felt a calling to public service and have spent most of my life in that pursuit. With over 22 years in the US Coast Guard, I have worked with diverse people from all walks of life. After completing my service, my family came to the south coast where I have strong family ties. Our area is special and deserves support and investment from Salem. I will work with all stakeholders to ensure our communities have the resources we need to improve our quality of life.

Erik’s priorities:

Medical Care: As the parent of a special needs child, I am acutely aware of the difficulties finding medical care in our area. We need to attract quality medical providers and keep them in our communities.

Housing: Finding safe, affordable housing is becoming more and more difficult. I will work with all stakeholders to find ways to increase housing availability and make it more affordable for families.

Mental Health: The lack of mental health facilities and resources in our coastal communities is having a detrimental effect. I will work to provide resources to those in crisis and get them the help they need and deserve.

Drug Treatment: The opioid epidemic in our country has had an outsized impact on our area, hurt families, and cost countless lives. I will work to increase treatment in our community.

Public Safety: I am a strong supporter of public safety professionals. I will focus on ensuring our law enforcement officers have the tools and training to do their jobs safely and professionally. I will address funding issues to attract quality candidates to the profession.

(This information furnished by Erik Schuttpelz.)