Local Politics

Opinion John West and Colene Martin present distinct approaches to governing Josephine County. West advocates a smaller government model centered on reduced spending, fewer employees, lower taxes and departmental reviews intended to improve efficiency. Martin supports a service-oriented model, defending selected staffing restorations and considering broader county coordination on regional issues.West places greater emphasis on taxpayer affordability priorities that may appeal to seniors on fixed incomes and financially stretched families. Martin places greater emphasis on…

Opinion For one Applegate Valley family, leadership became more than a campaign promise when John West responded to their struggle over a property cleanup.According to the family’s account, their effort to remove years of dumped garbage and invasive blackberries along the Applegate River (from previous owners) brought county violation notices and permit requirements. After they shared their frustration online, West called the next day and then visited the property to see the situation himself.His involvement…

Opinion Working families, retirees, homeowners, renters, and small businesses in Josephine County are already paying more for groceries, utilities, insurance, housing, and basic services. They need county leaders who treat every taxpayer dollar as a limited resource not leaders who repeatedly expand government costs and seek additional revenue. Appointed Commissioner Colene Martin’s record raises serious concerns about whose interests come first when the county faces a financial choice. Since joining the Board of Commissioners, Martin…

Opinion Long before John West entered county politics, he was building things. He built businesses. He built homes. He worked in timber and forestry. He fought wildfires. He developed property. And, over more than three decades, he built a reputation as someone who believes that problems are meant to be solved not simply discussed. John West is a lifelong Josephine County resident who has deep roots in the community. His professional background is unusually broad…