Week 1 Update
The West Linn-Wilsonville School District and the City of West Linn started their jury trial last Monday, 8/12. After a day and a half of jury selection, opening statements were made on Tuesday afternoon.
The School District spent the next three days presenting their case. They started with two staff witnesses and then called the gentleman who prepared the appraisal to the stand. They closed with two School Board witnesses and then brought an expert witness, n very experienced appraiser, to the stand.
Starting next Monday, the City presents their case.
I’ve attended much, but not all of the trial. I’ve been asked how’s it going? Well, it’s a structured and long process, and the wooden benches in the gallery are very uncomfortable!
As far as “who’s winning?”, it’s tough to say. First off, we’ve only heard one side of the arguments and the District working hard to convince the jury of their case. Cross examination reminds us that no matter what someone says, it’s likely there are other ways to interpret a witnesses testimony, facts that were left out, other facts at hand, and other perspectives that can be shared.
The jury is engaged and listening, even when the testimony gets laborious and repetitive.
My observation, and I am not a lawyer or jury member, is that while the District’s arguments are compelling by themselves, they are being methodically addressed by the city’s attorneys.
The City presents their case next week.
The court has settled in on a daily schedule starting at 9 each day. You are welcome to join to observe in Courtroom 5 at the Clackamas County Courthouse on Main Street in Oregon City, with Judge Susie L Norby presiding. No food, drinks, or hats in the courtroom, please.
I will let you know when the City rests their case and closing arguments are being heard.
Please continue sharing and asking your friends and neighbors to come alongside the 2529 of your neighbors who have already signed at SaveOppenlander.org
