Local Politics

Last month, the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) terminated all three budget committee members, allegedly because "they all thought the same." While the board needed to stagger terms, they could have simply let current terms expire in November or asked for volunteers to accept one, two, or three-year seats. Instead, by dissolving the committee entirely, the BCC violated ORS 294.414, ignoring established state statutes. The board claims to want "diverse thinking," which explains their appointment…

In a very short time, the current Board of County Commissioners has raised serious red flags regarding our tax dollars: Rate Hikes: They already voted to increase SOS rates. Deficit Hiring: They want to hire 21 new employees that the Budget Committee says we cannot afford. See BCC agenda below. Tax Burdens: They are pushing a tax levy instead of exploring recommended alternatives. The Budget Committee Purge: In a move that undermines independent oversight, the…

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY Oregon State Representative with experience in local government, real estate, and military service. Represents House District 3, encompassing Josephine County. Background includes municipal leadership, legislative service, and a career in property and business development. Known for active participation in legislative debate and committee work. PUBLIC OFFICE EXPERIENCE Oregon House of Representatives – District 3State RepresentativeDecember 2023 – Present Appointed to the Oregon House of Representatives in December 2023; subsequently elected to a full…

Attention Fiscal Conservatives: In Josephine County I find the current political divide deeply concerning. On one side, we have those fighting to maintain the status quo; on the other, we have reformers like John West and Simon Hare who are pushing for accountability and transparency. Financial MismanagementOur county is currently wasting money at an alarming rate. We have department heads earning over $200,000 a year, yet some of them manage only a single employee. This…