Three Minutes with … Jacob Foultz of Umatilla

Published 5:00 am Wednesday, September 7, 2022

Who are you and what do you do?

Jacob Foutz, senior planner at the city of Umatilla. I process the majority of the land use applications within the city and ensure that they meet city standards.

Where did you grow up? When did you come to Umatilla?

I was raised in Eugene, Oregon, and attended school in Utah. My wife and I are both proud Oregonians and knew that we wanted to come back to the state. A job opportunity in Umatilla opened up and with the great potential for the city and the amazing staff here. I couldn’t pass it up.

What are a few of your hobbies?

I love to coach track and field, water ski, snow ski, fish and swim.

How do you spend your free time?

I love to spend my free time with my wife, Avery, we spend a lot of our weekends exploring and traveling around Oregon and the Pacific Northwest.

How would you describe yourself?

I would describe myself as a relatable and caring person. And maybe a little intense sometimes, but in a positive way.

What is something that you’re passionate about?

I am very passionate about track and field, specifically the throws. While at school I was able to compete as a Division 1 athlete in the discus and hammer throw. When I graduated in 2019 I knew I wanted to help the next generation of throwers grow in the sport. I was able to start coaching at Umatilla High School in 2021 and have coached for two years. This past season we were able to have two of our athletes attend and place in the state championships at Hayward Field in Eugene. I am very excited for next season, we have a great group of coaches and awesome kids.

What do you like most about the community you live in?

I love living in Umatilla and being a part of the Umatilla community, we have some of the most genuine and down to earth people here. We are blessed to be able to look at the beautiful Columbia River every day and it is fun to be a part of a community with such a big vision for our future. Big things are happening and it’s exciting.