Meet our Board of directors

I’m Rob Fish, and I’ve called Tumalo home since the summer of 1972 when we moved onto a piece of property purchased from the original owner and builder of the Tumalo Emporium, now known as the Tumalo Steak House.  

Having lived here for so long, I have a unique perspective on the evolution of this "little piece of heaven." Over the years, I’ve seen the challenges of growth, property use limitations, and even some tough decisions made by our community. These experiences have shaped my desire to have a positive impact on Tumalo’s future.

I’ve gained extensive experience in wastewater systems, starting in the late 1980s when I worked for a local distributor of waterworks and sewer materials. In the early 1990s, I worked with a major local construction company installing water lines and sewer systems. This hands-on experience led me to start my own business, where I provided maintenance services for on-site wastewater treatment systems for both residential and commercial properties. I even have experience driving a septic pumper truck, which has given me a well-rounded understanding of the field.

As a Board Member, I plan to use my background and knowledge to help guide and manage the district in a way that balances the needs and desires of our community.

More about Jeannie Fraley coming soon...

I’m Martha Gross, and my family has spent decades living near and enjoying the Deschutes River. I’ve lived in the Tumalo “downtown” area for 22 years, and in that time, I’ve witnessed firsthand the challenges of system failures and the struggles of neighbors who’ve had to switch from well water to Laidlaw water. Like many, I don’t want my septic waste to contaminate the ground water around me, including the river, nor do I want my fresh water to be tainted by wastewater.

I served on the committee that helped garner initial support for the formation of the sewer district in Tumalo. We spent a lot of time engaging with the community and explaining what steps needed to come first before we could even begin to address the bigger questions.

Through my involvement with the committee and working closely with a knowledgeable team and engineering firm, I’ve gained a strong understanding of the issues at hand. I’m excited and eager to serve our community in a greater capacity as a board member and continue to work towards solutions that protect our environment and ensure a healthier future for Tumalo.

I’m Sophie Paez, and I bring over 20 years of executive management experience in the non-profit sector to my role as a Tumalo Basin Sewer District director. My expertise lies in strategic planning, financial management, team leadership, stakeholder engagement, and customer service. I pride myself on maintaining a sharp attention to detail while also keeping the bigger picture in focus. Integrity, efficiency, and progress are values I hold dear.

Having been a homeowner and a community member of Tumalo for two decades, as well as a former water district board member, I understand the critical need for a formal solution to the aging septic systems that threaten the health of private wells and the Deschutes River. I’m deeply committed to serving thoughtfully and responsibly on behalf of my neighbors, ensuring we address these challenges with care and informed decision-making.

I’m Dale Peer, and I’ve lived here in the Tumalo area for 45 years, and over that time, I’ve seen this place grow and change in many ways. For the last 24 years, I’ve been involved with the Laidlaw Water District, starting out as a customer, then serving on the board, and later as the district manager. I’ve learned a lot along the way, and I’m proud to bring that experience to my role on the Board of Directors for the Tumalo Basin Sewer District. I’ve always believed in looking out for our community, and I’m committed to doing what I can to make sure we have the reliable services we need, now and in the future.