Ratke appointed to Rainier City Council

Longtime Rainier resident Charleen Ratke was appointed to the vacant city council position on Monday, Oct. 6. Ratke replaced Connie Budge, who stepped down last month.

Ratke was born in Longview and attended the one-room school in Neer City before going on to Rainier Elementary School. After graduating from the old high school, she went to Lower Columbia College and Western Oregon University. "Education has been my love," she said.

A self-described "lifelong learner," Ratke spent her career teaching elementary school and special education. Her hobbies include reading, enjoying the outdoors, and the arts. She has also worked as a singer and recording artist, specializing in Southern Gospel. "Music is really big in my life," she said.

Ratke said she was interested in serving on council because she wants to give back to the community. "I really enjoy our park, and I wanted to learn about city government," she said.

Ratke is an active member of Rainier Community Church. She has a son who lives in Gresham, a daughter who lives in Pendleton, and nine grandchildren.