LETTER: Eric Wheeler (5/6/26)

Read Eric’s letter to the editor in the Astorian

May 6, 2026

BROSIUS WILL BALANCE PRESERVATION, NEED FOR HOUSING

I am adding my name to those citizens of Astoria who endorse Mike Brosius in his campaign for Clatsop County Commissioner, District 3. Mike is involved in many aspects of civic life in Astoria and one in particular that I share with him is our mutual interest in historic preservation. One of the main attractions of this historic little city on the Lower Columbia River is the well-preserved built environment of the downtown district and especially the buildings in our historic residential districts. Mike and his wife Laura moved to Astoria with the goal of purchasing and restoring an architecturally and historically significant residence. 

They found a real gem in the Gustavus Holmes House (1892).  After several years of painstaking repair and restoration of this elegant Queen Anne mansion, the Holmes House is one of the most significant and highly visible dwellings in the Uppertown neighborhood. 

Mike and Laura were recipients of the 2023 Dr. Edward Harvey Historic Preservation Award and their efforts were featured in both “Preservation Magazine of the National Trust for Historic Preservation” and numerous issues of “Old House Journal.”  Mike also supports several local organizations involved in preserving and celebrating city history and architecture. 

Clatsop County needs leadership that recognizes the importance of protecting our historic buildings along with the need to provide more housing options in our historic districts. I believe that Mike Brosius has the experience and good judgment to balance those needs for the benefit of the community.  

Eric Wheeler
Astoria