About Patrick Walsh
A Leader for all of Lake Oswego: Rooted in Community Service and Proven Results
Community Service
Local Leadership & Stewardship
My commitment to Lake Oswego is rooted in active service. I have served on the Lake Oswego Public Library Advisory Board for four years, including two years as Chair. In this role, I have overseen the library’s management staff and budget while ensuring it remains an efficient, accessible, and welcoming space for every community member. In 2023, I was appointed to the Library Visioning Task Force, where community leaders promoted public surveys and reviewed responses to help shape the future of our library facilities to better serve the changing needs of our growing city. In addition, in 2024, the School Board appointed me to serve on the Lake Oswego School District’s Bond Development Committee.
Experience
A Professional Problem Solver
Beyond my board service in the City, I bring over 15 years’ experience as a mission-driven leader and non-profit executive in Oregon. I have dedicated my career to facilitating complex programs in challenging environments. As a director and educator, my work has always been about more than just the arts; it is about building bridges, fostering critical dialogue, and managing large-scale projects that bring transformative resources to the people who need them. I have spent nearly two decades refining a leadership approach that prioritizes clear communication, fiscal sustainability, and the ability to find common ground; skills that are essential for effective local governance.
Strategy
A Collaborative Approach
I have spent my career bringing people together who don’t always see eye-to-eye. Whether using narrative art to bridge social divides between police and the communities they protect, or as a director within the Oregon Department of Corrections, I have mastered the art of finding a common path forward in high-stakes environments. My approach is rooted in the belief that the best solutions come from working together, which has been evident during my time as Chair of the Library Advisory Board. I led the formation of dedicated work groups to advance specific library goals and worked closely with city staff to launch the community's first "Maker Day" at the library. This event was a direct result of authentic connections and conversations between volunteers, staff, and residents, proving that when we collaborate, we create tangible value for Lake Oswego.
A Vision for Lake Oswego
Lake Oswego is more than just where I live; it is where I am raising my four-year-old and where my family’s future is rooted. My decision to run for City Council stems from a deep sense of respect for what this community has built, and a sense of responsibility to thoughtfully steward our public resources to build for our future. I love it here and I truly believe that a city thrives when its leaders approach every decision with an eye toward the next generation, ensuring that our local governance is as vibrant and sustainable as the neighborhoods we call home.
"Lake Oswego isn't just a place to live; it's a commitment we make to one another. I'm running to ensure that our city remains a place of opportunity, beauty, and belonging for everyone."
Patrick Walsh