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OCTOBER 2024
A County in Crisis The Recall of John West By: John Oliver JOSEPHINE COUNTY finds itself at a crossroads, as an effort to recall County Commissioner John West gains traction. The movement to remove him from office is driven by a wide range of grievances, from financial mismanagement to divisive public behavior, and has united people from across the political spectrum. What began as a Republican-led initiative now includes support from diverse political and social backgrounds, all seeking to restore trust in local government. The push to recall Commissioner West officially began on August 2, 2024, when the Committee to Recall John West, headed by petitioner Lily Morgan, filed the petition. The campaign did not arise overnight; it represents the culmination of over 18 months of frustration with West’s conduct and decisions. Accusations of cronyism, illegal behavior, and disregard for the voters’ will have left many convinced that his leadership has caused irreparable harm to the county. The petition cites a series of issues, including questionable property sales, budget cuts to essential services, and financial losses totaling more than $6.4 million — losses that an economically struggling county can ill afford. One key issue fueling the recall is the failed sale of the Pipe Fork property, a deal that had been in negotiations for years. Commissioner West’s last-minute vote against the agreement led to a $2.3
million loss in revenue, as well as missed opportunities for future timber-related income. This decision was widely seen as politically motivated, particularly since the land was set to be sold to a local community group that had long fundraised for the purchase. Adding to the controversy are questions surrounding West’s ownership of an adjacent property, which he claims to have sold, despite public records suggesting otherwise. Another contentious action was his decision to cut funding for the Oregon State University Extension Service and 4-H programs. These cuts resulted in an $852,000 loss and contradicted the will of the voters, who had supported these programs for their significant contributions to the local agricultural community. Beyond the immediate financial damage, this move weakened vital community services, leaving many residents feeling betrayed and further eroding trust in county leadership. The recall petition also accuses West of budget cuts to public health and law enforcement services, compromising public safety and reducing emergency services like the Firewise program. His administration has faced additional scrutiny for alleged unlawful withdrawals from the Library District, which have led to costly legal disputes and ongoing ethics violations. Continued on page 7
Making Your Voice Heard
Senior Citizens Voting in the Election By: Ellen Ward AS THE ELECTION APPROACHES, senior citizens play a crucial role in shaping the future of the country. With higher voter turnout rates compared to other age groups, seniors have consistently demonstrated the power of their collective voice. However, barriers to voting, such as mobility challenges or health concerns, can pose obstacles for some elderly individuals. Fortunately, there are multiple options available to help ensure that seniors can participate in this year’s elections and make their votes count.
Mail-In Ballots: A Convenient Option For those who may find it difficult to leave their homes, mail-in ballots offer a practical alternative to in-person voting. Voting by mail allows seniors to fill out their ballots at home and submit them by mail without the need to visit a polling place. Many older adults have already registered for mailin voting, but for those who haven’t, it is essential to check the registration deadlines in your state. In many areas, the deadline Continued on page 3
CONTACT US 541-244-1753 office Editorial: john@seniorplanner.net