Clackamas County Commissioner Melissa Fireside resigns two days after eight-count felony indictment

Published 10:32 am Friday, March 7, 2025

Clackamas County Board of Commissioners Chair Craig Roberts announced that Commissioner Melissa Fireside resigned from her position Friday, March 7, two days after she pleaded not guilty to eight felony counts related to her allegedly swindling an 83-year-old man out of thousands of dollars.

“I recognize that for many, this decision is not soon enough, and I know how difficult and upsetting this situation has been for our community, and I want to thank you for making your voices heard,” Roberts said in a press release. “The Board remains committed to fulfilling our responsibilities to you and ensuring that the business of Clackamas County continues to move forward.”

Fireside, a Lake Oswego resident, was elected to the County Commission in November as the Lake Oswego Police Department investigated allegations of theft against her. News of the investigation into Fireside broke shortly after her victory over incumbent Commissioner Mark Shull.

Fireside had previously told fellow commissioners she was taking a leave of absence, the terms and duration of which were unclear. At a meeting Thursday, March 6, following public comments in which multiple community members called for Fireside’s resignation and stated a loss of trust with the commission, the three commissioners present voted unanimously to suspend Fireside’s pay during her leave.

Roberts said he instructed the county administrator to begin the process of filling Fireside’s vacant seat.

“Public involvement is crucial throughout this process, and I am committed to keeping you informed and updated as we move forward,” Roberts said.

According to county public information officer Scott Anderson, the commission was expected to discuss the process for filling the vacancy at its issues and updates meeting at 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 11.