Palmquist accepts Milton-Freewater city manager job
Published 6:30 pm Friday, July 31, 2026
MILTON-FREEWATER — Aaron Palmquist announced Friday, July 30, he has accepted a job offer to fill the vacant seat of Milton-Freewater city manager.
Palmquist, who is the city manager of Irrigon, said in a phone interview his final acceptance will come with successful contract negotiation, at which time he’ll give Irrigon a 60-day notice.
Milton-Freewater City Council President Steve Irving said the city received Palmquist’s email and the council will begin the contract negotiation at its Aug. 10 regular session.
Irving added he’s pleased to see the process moving forward after previous city manager candidate Nicole Schneider turned down the proposed contract.
“I think (Palmquist) understands this takes time, unlike our previous candidate,” Irving said.
Palmquist said he’s been looking over housing options in Milton-Freewater, noting those are limited.
He knows there are challenges ahead for Milton-Freewater, “but there are challenges in every life,” he noted.
“I want to see the city and staff work collectively for the benefit of Milton-Freewater,” Palmquist added. “There’s hope, there’s opportunity … Change is a process, not an event.”