Kari Fleisher was born in Portland, Oregon, and lived in Clatsop County on the Nehalem River close to the fish hatchery until an accident that left her dad, Bradley Mattson, with severe brain damage that required intensive around-the-clock care. As a designated 100% disabled VA veteran, he lived for over 15 years until his passing. During Kari's childhood, she was raised by her loving mother, Sandra Mattson, a sixth-generation Oregonian. Before school age, Sandra sold the home on the river to the town of Nehalem to shorten her children's (Bradley Jr. and Kari) commute to school. Sandy was a devoted wife and hard worker. She instilled these traits in her children.
Despite adversity, Kari thrived at the Neah-Kah-Nie School District and was recognized as a Valedictorian of her class. She participated in 4-H sewing, knitting, and photography, culminating in her achievement as 4-H Ambassador for Oregon at the National Convention in Memphis, TN. Upon graduation from Neah-Kah-Nie, she received her bachelor's degree in business administration, a minor in chemistry, and a certificate in applied finance and economics in financial analysis from Southern Oregon University (SOU).
During her first year at SOU, she met her future husband, Steele Fleisher, and they have been tied at the hip since. In February 2024, they celebrated their 26th year together. They have been home to six Saint Bernards, ten cats, and three foster children. Currently, they have four cats and two saints, Augustus and Theodore.
After Kari graduated from SOU in 2001, Steele and Kari moved to San Marcos, California. There, they gained independence and faced challenges head-on, meeting new people and self-discovery. Kari returned home to Tillamook County with Steele after finding an increasing cost of living and a lack of job growth.
Once back home, after two interviews, she landed a property appraiser trainee position at Tillamook County in January 2004. Kari has been a registered property appraiser since December 2004. Within four years on the job, Kari was promoted from trainee to a Senior Appraiser as the Commercial/Industrial Appraiser. Kari has held this position for 16 years. Kari has been an integral part of the Assessor's office for 20 years and counting.
Kari previously ran for Assessor in May 2012, was a candidate for Tillamook County Commissioner in 2018, and is now seeking your Vote to be your next Tillamook County Assessor.
In late 2021, Kari lost her mom, Sandra Mattson, after her second battle with breast cancer. It has been challenging navigating life without her constant support. This loss has brought new strength, knowing that loss and adversity will provide new opportunities to continue her legacy of providing for the community and building new paths.
As your next County Assessor, I fully understand the impacts on seniors, veterans, and families with limited incomes. I aim to ensure taxpayers are informed about any property tax reductions they can receive as allowed.
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