County Politics

IntroductionCommissioner John West represents a steady, principled voice for Josephine County residents who expect their local government to work for them not outside interests or political agendas. With a focus on fiscal responsibility, public safety, and local control, West approaches county leadership with common sense, transparency, and respect for the people who live and work here. His priorities reflect the values of a rural county that believes in accountability, property rights, and community safety. Proven…

In his statement from the April 1, 2026, Board of County Commissioners (BCC) meeting, former Budget Officer Simon Hare addressed the controversy surrounding his contract and resignation. Key Points of the Statement:Professional Background: Hare emphasized his eight years of experience as a former County Commissioner, noting he successfully managed the county through significant fiscal crises and was recruited by the previous board specifically for his expertise. The Reason for Resignation: Hare stated he was "forced…

In the quiet corners of Josephine County, where the timber grows thick and the spirit of independence runs deeper than the Rogue River, the story of John West’s return isn't just a political campaign it's a story of a man who refused to stay down when the establishment tried to bury him. The Outsider Who Kept His WordWhen John West first took his seat in 2023, he didn’t arrive with a suitcase full of political…

Introduction: John West represents the kind of grounded, practical leadership Josephine County needs right now. He brings a steady hand, a clear understanding of local priorities, and a commitment to protecting the values that make our community strong. His focus is simple: responsible governance, safe neighborhoods, and a county government that works for the people who live here. Proven Local Leadership — Emphasizes hands‑on experience in Josephine County issues, focusing on practical solutions rather than…

The individual responsible for the recall allegations against John West is currently the defendant in a defamation lawsuit. During the initial hearing on February 25th, the judge ruled that the plaintiff, John West, successfully established a prima facie case. This ruling indicates that West has presented sufficient evidence to support his claims, allowing the lawsuit to proceed toward a trial. A Review of the Recall Allegations and Public RecordsTo better understand the situation, it is…

Introduction:Simon Hare is a seasoned public servant with over a decade of direct experience in Josephine County’s fiscal and administrative governance. Having served both as a two-term County Commissioner and as the county’s Budget Officer, Hare possesses a deep institutional understanding of the region’s unique financial challenges. His background combines high-level legislative oversight with the technical, "hands-on" management of public funds, making him a candidate defined by his experience in maintaining essential services under tight…

1. HomeBridging and Grant AdministrationHansen is the President of HomeBridging, an organization that works with federal and state grants to improve housing and infrastructure in Josephine County. He is frequently cited in Board of Commissioners meetings for managing funds aimed at:Mobile Home Improvements: Securing and administering grants (often in the hundreds of thousands of dollars) to assist residents outside Grants Pass city limits, particularly in the Illinois Valley.Property Repairs: Facilitating "pure grants" that allow homeowners…

John West’s service as County Commissioner previously reflected a clear and consistent philosophy: government should remain limited, accountable, and focused on its core responsibilities. His tenure was defined by fiscal conservatism, strong defense of property rights, and a willingness to challenge long‑standing assumptions about how county government operates. Supporters credit him with bringing a needed dose of transparency, discipline, and citizen‑focused leadership to Josephine County. Core Tenets and Accomplishments Fiscal Responsibility & Waste Reduction Challenging…