2023-05-16 - Voters Pamphlet - CountyOregon Vote-by-Mail Special District Election May 16, 2023
voters’pamphlet
Attention
This is the beginning of your Deschutes County Voters’ Pamphlet.
All information contained in this pamphlet has been
assembled and printed by your County Clerk.
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-2 Clerk’s Letter
County Clerk
Dear Deschutes County Voter:
This is your May 16, 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet provided by your Deschutes
County Clerk’s office. It contains information about candidates and measures from local jurisdictions
within the boundaries of Deschutes County.
This pamphlet contains the ballot measures and explanatory statements designed to provide impartial
information. It also contains paid arguments for or against certain measures. Candidates may also
pay to place a statement in the pamphlet.
Ballots will be mailed on Wednesday, April 26, 2023 to each registered voter. Here are a few things
you should know:
♦ Mail your voted ballot in your postage-paid return envelope or drop it off at an official drop site
location by 8 pm, Tuesday, May 16, 2023. Remember to sign your ballot envelope.
♦ Drop sites open Friday, April 28. Check the Ballot Drop Site page in this pamphlet for more details.
♦ Candidate names on your ballot will appear in random alphabetical order. In accordance with
ORS 254.155, random ordering of the letters is conducted prior to each election.
♦ Not all candidates or measures in this Voters’ Pamphlet will be on your ballot. Your official ballot
will contain only those issues on which you are eligible to vote, based on where you live.
♦ Not all candidates submit information for the Voters’ Pamphlet, so you may have candidates on
your ballot that are not in the Voters’ Pamphlet.
♦ This Voters’ Pamphlet is online at www.deschutescounty.gov/elections. After 8 pm on Election
Night, preliminary election results will be posted online at www.deschutescounty.gov/ElectionResults.
♦ If a ballot was delivered to your residence for someone who should no longer be receiving a ballot
at your address, please write “RETURN” on the envelope and place it back in your mailbox.
♦ The signature on each voter’s ballot return envelope is verified against the voter’s signature on
file. The signatures must match before a ballot can be counted. If your signature has changed,
please update your voter registration.
♦ Postmarks Count! Ballots that are mailed, postmarked by the United States Postal Service
(USPS) by 8 pm on Election Day and received by the Clerk’s Office by Tuesday, May 23 will be
accepted.
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-3 Translation Information
Translation Information
Selected portions of this county voters’ pamphlet are available in Simplified Chinese,
French, Korean, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese. These translations can
be found online at oregonvotes.gov/DeschutesVP
本县选民手册的部分内容提供简体中文版本。可以访问 oregonvotes.gov/DeschutesVP
获取译本。
Des sections sélectionnées des brochures de l'électeur de ce comté sont disponibles en
français. Ces traductions peuvent être consultées en ligne à l'adresse suivante :
oregonvotes.gov/DeschutesVP
주 유권자 팜플렛의 선택된 부분은 한국어 준비되어 있습니다. 번역은 온라인
oregonvotes.gov/DeschutesVP 에서 찾아볼 수 있습니다.
Отдельные части брошюр избирателей этого округа доступны на русском языке. С
данными переводами можно ознакомиться в Интернете по адресу:
oregonvotes.gov/DeschutesVP
Algunas secciones de este folleto para votantes del condado están disponibles en
español. Estas traducciones están disponibles en línea en
oregonvotes.gov/DeschutesVP
Ang mga piling bahagi ng mga pamplet na ito para sa mga botante ng county ay
mababasa sa Tagalog. Makikita online ang mga pagsasaling-wikang ito sa
oregonvotes.gov/DeschutesVP
Các phần được chọn trong tập tài liệu cử tri quận này có bản ngôn ngữ tiếng Việt. Các
bản dịch có thể xem trực tuyến tại oregonvotes.gov/DeschutesVP
In 2021, the Oregon Legislature passed the Voter Language Access Bill (HB 3021)
requiring the Secretary of State to translate portions of state and county voters’
pamphlets into Oregon’s and the county’s most spoken languages. The law seeks to
remove barriers to voting for those who are not fully proficient in English.
To help in this effort, the Translation Advisory Council was created. The Council is
made up of volunteer community members who represent the ethnic, linguistic, and
cultural diversity of Oregon voters. Council members make sure state and county
translations are accurate and retain the original tone and meaning in a culturally
appropriate manner.
Selected portions of this county voters’ pamphlet are available in Simplified Chinese,
French, Korean, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese. These translations can
be found online at oregonvotes.gov/DeschutesVP
本县选民手册的部分内容提供简体中文版本。可以访问 oregonvotes.gov/DeschutesVP
获取译本。
Des sections sélectionnées des brochures de l'électeur de ce comté sont disponibles en
français. Ces traductions peuvent être consultées en ligne à l'adresse suivante :
oregonvotes.gov/DeschutesVP
주 유권자 팜플렛의 선택된 부분은 한국어 준비되어 있습니다. 번역은 온라인
oregonvotes.gov/DeschutesVP 에서 찾아볼 수 있습니다.
Отдельные части брошюр избирателей этого округа доступны на русском языке. С
данными переводами можно ознакомиться в Интернете по адресу:
oregonvotes.gov/DeschutesVP
Algunas secciones de este folleto para votantes del condado están disponibles en
español. Estas traducciones están disponibles en línea en
oregonvotes.gov/DeschutesVP
Ang mga piling bahagi ng mga pamplet na ito para sa mga botante ng county ay
mababasa sa Tagalog. Makikita online ang mga pagsasaling-wikang ito sa
oregonvotes.gov/DeschutesVP
Các phần được chọn trong tập tài liệu cử tri quận này có bản ngôn ngữ tiếng Việt. Các
bản dịch có thể xem trực tuyến tại oregonvotes.gov/DeschutesVP
In 2021, the Oregon Legislature passed the Voter Language Access Bill (HB 3021)
requiring the Secretary of State to translate portions of state and county voters’
pamphlets into Oregon’s and the county’s most spoken languages. The law seeks to
remove barriers to voting for those who are not fully proficient in English.
To help in this effort, the Translation Advisory Council was created. The Council is
made up of volunteer community members who represent the ethnic, linguistic, and
cultural diversity of Oregon voters. Council members make sure state and county
translations are accurate and retain the original tone and meaning in a culturally
appropriate manner.
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-4 Index
Index to Voters’ Pamphlet
All candidates had the opportunity to submit a picture and statement regarding their candidacy in this pamphlet. The following candidates
submitted information. The text of the candidate statements, measures and arguments were printed as submitted.
Measures Page
9-157 ........................................................................................................................................................................9-10
9-158 ........................................................................................................................................................................9-12
9-159 ........................................................................................................................................................................9-16
9-160 ........................................................................................................................................................................9-19
9-161 ........................................................................................................................................................................9-23
Candidates
Page
Clerk’s Letter ..............................................................................................................................................................9-2
Translation Information ...............................................................................................................................................9-3
Voting Information.......................................................................................................................................................9-5
How To Cast Your Vote ...............................................................................................................................................9-6
Official Ballot Drop Sites .............................................................................................................................................9-7
Directions to Your Newest Ballot Drop Sites...............................................................................................................9-8
Deschutes County Elections: 2024 “I Voted” Sticker Contest.....................................................................................9-9
The Elections Process in Deschutes County............................................................................................................9-54
Election Information
Page
Arzaga, Louie ...........................................................9-49
Barram, Jodie ...........................................................9-46
Berry, Diane ..............................................................9-24
Berry, Lena ...............................................................9-49
Bilderback, Karissa ...................................................9-37
Blanton, John............................................................9-44
Campbell, John.........................................................9-36
Chadwick, Kina .........................................................9-31
Claridge, Cynthia ......................................................9-51
Dholakia, Melissa Barnes .........................................9-30
Fischer, Cameron .....................................................9-28
Fitch, Nicole ..............................................................9-31
Goodrich, Liz ............................................................9-36
Gordon, Gary S ........................................................9-47
Grieef, Sherrie ..........................................................9-29
Hanson, Rod.............................................................9-32
Harmon, Zachary L ...................................................9-47
Herrmann, Tom .........................................................9-44
Hossick, Marisa Chappell .........................................9-52
Johnson Jerry ...........................................................9-40
Justema, Elizabeth ...................................................9-32
Knight, Kevin ............................................................9-25
Laucks, Mark C.........................................................9-39
Lea, Eric ...................................................................9-33
Lesueur, Rex ............................................................9-42
Lopez, Keri ...............................................................9-35
Malkin, Ann ...............................................................9-53
Merz, Erin ................................................................9-24
Miao, Raymond .............................................9-41 & 9-52
Mirrasoul, Robin .......................................................9-43
Morgan, Erin Foote ...................................................9-27
O’Brien, Mark............................................................9-46
Oliver, Tony ...............................................................9-51
Otto, Wendell ............................................................9-34
Owens, Donna ..........................................................9-45
Page, Amanda ..........................................................9-34
Porter, Jim ...............................................................9-25
Porterfield, Brad........................................................9-35
Price, David E ...........................................................9-26
Rouse, David ............................................................9-48
Sarver, Asa ...............................................................9-38
Saunders, Hilary (Hedemark) ..................................9-38
Simmons, Jayne .......................................................9-39
Sipe, Michael ............................................................9-26
Smith, Jeff .................................................................9-37
Soper, BJ ..................................................................9-48
Strengberg, Christopher ...........................................9-28
Tatom, Amy ...............................................................9-29
Tehan, Peggy............................................................9-50
Thomas, John W ......................................................9-40
Vietzke, Michael .......................................................9-41
Waddell, Troy ............................................................9-43
Wamboldt, Chester James .......................................9-30
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-5 Voting Information
Voting Information
Voting Instructions
Your Ballot Packet will contain the following items:
• Printed ballot
• Postage-paid return envelope to be signed
Examine your official ballot and vote it:
Examine your official ballot and locate the candidate or
measure response oval of your choice for each contest. To
vote, you must blacken the oval () completely with a
pen (black or blue ink) next to your choices. Do not use a
felt tip pen.
Review your ballot:
Ensure you correctly marked your choice for each contest.
Your official ballot may contain contests printed on both
sides of your ballot.
Prepare to return your ballot:
Place your ballot in the postage-paid return envelope.
Election staff will ensure the secrecy of your ballot. Read
the voter’s statement on the return envelope and sign in
the signature box.
Signing your ballot return envelope:
Your ballot will not be counted if the return envelope is not
signed. Every signature is checked against the registra-
tion signature on file and the signature must match for the
ballot to be counted.
Return your ballot:
• By mail: Return your ballot in your signed and
sealed ballot return envelope. A stamp is not re-
quired. Mail your voted ballot no later than Tuesday,
May 16, 2023.
• At any official drop site: Deliver the signed and
sealed ballot return envelope to an official drop site
no later than 8 pm on Election Day. Postage is not
required.
Remember, review both sides of your ballot. Some
ballots may have contests/measures on both sides.
Contact:
Deschutes County Elections
(541) 388-6547 Deschutescounty.gov/elections
1 (866) ORE-VOTES (se habla Español)
www.oregonvotes.gov
TTY 1 (800) 735-2900
Registering to Vote
To be eligible to vote in the May 16, 2023 Special District
Election, a completed voter registration card must be
postmarked by Tuesday, April 25, 2023.
May Special District Election:
All voters in the May 16, 2023 Special District Election will
receive the same ballot, regardless of political affiliation.
To register to vote in Oregon, you must be:
1. A resident of Oregon.
2. A United States citizen.
3. At least 18 years old by Election Day.
You must update your registration if:
1. Your residence or mailing address changes.
2. Your name changes.
3. You wish to change your party affiliation.
Important Note: If you have moved or changed your name
and you have not yet updated your registration, you are still
eligible to vote. Call the Deschutes County Elections Office
at (541) 388-6547 for further information.
Voters with disabilities:
If you need assistance with voting or casting your ballot,
call the Deschutes County Elections Office at
(541) 388-6547. We will provide two staff to assist you in
voting. You may also authorize a friend, family member, or
other trusted person, who are not affiliated with your em-
ployer or union, to assist you.
An audio edition of the Voters’ Pamphlet is available. To
order, please contact Independent Living Resources at
(503) 232-7411 or TTY (503) 232-8408.
Elections
and
Voting
BE
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Deschutes County
Elections and Voting
1300 NW Wall St.
Bend, Oregon
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NORTON AVENUE
LAFAYETTE AVENUE
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-6 How To Cast Your Vote
How to cast your vote...
Complete your ballot
To vote, completely fill in the oval next to your choice with a pen (black or blue ink).
Do not use a felt tip pen.
To vote for a person not on the ballot, fill in the oval next to the “write-in” line,
then neatly write the name of the person on the line provided. Do not write a
candidate’s name that already appears on the ballot.
You do not have to vote on all contests. Those you do vote on will still count.
Check for errors
Insert ballot & sign your return envelope
Insert only your voted ballot (not another person’s ballot)
inside your ballot return envelope. (If we receive an
envelope with more than one ballot inside, all enclosed
ballots will be rejected and not counted).
The signature on each voter’s ballot return envelope is verified against the voter’s signature on file.
The signatures must match before a ballot can be counted. If your signature has changed, please update your
voter registration.
Return your ballot
By mail: Return your ballot in your signed and sealed ballot return
envelope. Postage is not required. Mail your voted ballot no later than
Tuesday, May 16, 2023. Ballots that are mailed, postmarked by the United
States Postal Service (USPS) by 8 pm on Election Day and received by the
Clerk’s Office by Tuesday, May 23, 2023 will be accepted.
At any official drop site: Deliver the signed and sealed ballot return
envelope to an official drop site no later than 8 pm on Election Day.
Postage is not required.
You must sign your ballot return envelope or
your vote will not count.
If you vote for more options than are allowed, your vote will not count for that contest.
If you make a mistake on your ballot, you may make your changes on
the ballot. Draw a line through the entire candidate name or measure
response. You then have the option of making another choice.
Contact Deschutes County Elections Office at (541) 388-6547 to request
a replacement ballot if:
— you make a mistake that you cannot correct
— your ballot is damaged or spoiled
— your ballot is lost
How To Cast Your Vote
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
Deschutes County November 8, 2022 General Election
Official Ballot Drop Sites
Don’t Delay, Vote Today!
Drop off your ballot at an official drop site location by 8 pm, Tuesday, May 16, 2023.
Remember to sign your ballot envelope.
Drop Site Hours:
Open: Friday, April 28, 2023
Close: Election Day, Tuesday, November 8, 2022 at 8 pm
Drop Site Locations:
Bend
Deschutes
Services Center
1300 NW Wall St,
Bend
(Walk-up & Drive-
through exterior
Drop Boxes
located on west
side of building)
Deschutes
County Road
Department
61150 SE 27th St,
Bend
(Box located on
south end of
parking lot)
Old Mill
459 SW Bluff Dr,
Bend
(Box located on the
knoll above Old Mill
District in parking lot
south of Hilton
Garden Inn hotel)
Bradbury Park &
Ride
1000 SW Bradbury
Way, Bend
(Box located across
from the Park & Rec
Pavilion off of
Simpson &
Columbia)
Pine Nursery
Park
3750 NE Purcell
Blvd, Bend
Open usual park
business hours
(Box located at
east end of
parking lot)
Redmond (New Locations) La Pine Sisters Sunriver
Deschutes
County Expo
Center
(Fairgrounds)
3800 SW Airport
Way, Redmond
(Box located on
roundabout in east
end parking lot)
La Pine Public Library
(Open during construction)
16425 1st St,
La Pine
(Box located at 1st
St & Huntington Rd)
Sisters City Hall
520 E Cascade
Ave, Sisters
(Box located in
front of City Hall)
Sunriver Public
Library
56855 Venture
Ln, Sunriver
(Box located at
Sunriver Business
Park)
County Clerk’s Office, 1300 NW Wall St, Suite 202 (2nd Floor), Bend
Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm | Election Day, 7 am to 8 pm
-- Voting Booths Provided --
Parking Lot
across from
Centennial Park
(Temporarily
moved from the
Redmond Library)
716 SW Evergreen,
Redmond
(Box located at north
end of parking lot)
-- OR --
Mail your voted ballot in your postage-paid return envelope by 8 pm, Tuesday, May 16, 2023.
Remember to sign your ballot envelope. Ballots that are mailed, postmarked by the United States
Postal Service (USPS) by 8 pm on Election Day and received by the Clerk’s Office by May 23 will
be accepted.
9-7 Official Ballot Drop Sites
Deschutes County November 8, 2022 General Election
Official Ballot Drop Sites
Don’t Delay, Vote Today!
Drop off your ballot at an official drop site location by 8 pm, Tuesday, May 16, 2023.
Remember to sign your ballot envelope.
Drop Site Hours:
Open: Friday, April 28, 2023
Close: Election Day, Tuesday, November 8, 2022 at 8 pm
Drop Site Locations:
Bend
Deschutes
Services Center
1300 NW Wall St,
Bend
(Walk-up & Drive-
through exterior
Drop Boxes
located on west
side of building)
Deschutes
County Road
Department
61150 SE 27th St,
Bend
(Box located on
south end of
parking lot)
Old Mill
459 SW Bluff Dr,
Bend
(Box located on the
knoll above Old Mill
District in parking lot
south of Hilton
Garden Inn hotel)
Bradbury Park &
Ride
1000 SW Bradbury
Way, Bend
(Box located across
from the Park & Rec
Pavilion off of
Simpson &
Columbia)
Pine Nursery
Park
3750 NE Purcell
Blvd, Bend
Open usual park
business hours
(Box located at
east end of
parking lot)
Redmond (New Locations) La Pine Sisters Sunriver
Deschutes
County Expo
Center
(Fairgrounds)
3800 SW Airport
Way, Redmond
(Box located on
roundabout in east
end parking lot)
La Pine Public Library
(Open during construction)
16425 1st St,
La Pine
(Box located at 1st
St & Huntington Rd)
Sisters City Hall
520 E Cascade
Ave, Sisters
(Box located in
front of City Hall)
Sunriver Public
Library
56855 Venture
Ln, Sunriver
(Box located at
Sunriver Business
Park)
County Clerk’s Office, 1300 NW Wall St, Suite 202 (2nd Floor), Bend
Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm | Election Day, 7 am to 8 pm
-- Voting Booths Provided --
Parking Lot
across from
Centennial Park
(Temporarily
moved from the
Redmond Library)
716 SW Evergreen,
Redmond
(Box located at north
end of parking lot)
-- OR --
Mail your voted ballot in your postage-paid return envelope by 8 pm, Tuesday, May 16, 2023.
Remember to sign your ballot envelope. Ballots that are mailed, postmarked by the United States
Postal Service (USPS) by 8 pm on Election Day and received by the Clerk’s Office by May 23 will
be accepted.
Deschutes County November 8, 2022 General Election
Official Ballot Drop Sites
Don’t Delay, Vote Today!
Drop off your ballot at an official drop site location by 8 pm, Tuesday, May 16, 2023.
Remember to sign your ballot envelope.
Drop Site Hours:
Open: Friday, April 28, 2023
Close: Election Day, Tuesday, November 8, 2022 at 8 pm
Drop Site Locations:
Bend
Deschutes
Services Center
1300 NW Wall St,
Bend
(Walk-up & Drive-
through exterior
Drop Boxes
located on west
side of building)
Deschutes
County Road
Department
61150 SE 27th St,
Bend
(Box located on
south end of
parking lot)
Old Mill
459 SW Bluff Dr,
Bend
(Box located on the
knoll above Old Mill
District in parking lot
south of Hilton
Garden Inn hotel)
Bradbury Park &
Ride
1000 SW Bradbury
Way, Bend
(Box located across
from the Park & Rec
Pavilion off of
Simpson &
Columbia)
Pine Nursery
Park
3750 NE Purcell
Blvd, Bend
Open usual park
business hours
(Box located at
east end of
parking lot)
Redmond (New Locations) La Pine Sisters Sunriver
Deschutes
County Expo
Center
(Fairgrounds)
3800 SW Airport
Way, Redmond
(Box located on
roundabout in east
end parking lot)
La Pine Public Library
(Open during construction)
16425 1st St,
La Pine
(Box located at 1st
St & Huntington Rd)
Sisters City Hall
520 E Cascade
Ave, Sisters
(Box located in
front of City Hall)
Sunriver Public
Library
56855 Venture
Ln, Sunriver
(Box located at
Sunriver Business
Park)
County Clerk’s Office, 1300 NW Wall St, Suite 202 (2nd Floor), Bend
Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm | Election Day, 7 am to 8 pm
-- Voting Booths Provided --
Parking Lot
across from
Centennial Park
(Temporarily
moved from the
Redmond Library)
716 SW Evergreen,
Redmond
(Box located at north
end of parking lot)
-- OR --
Mail your voted ballot in your postage-paid return envelope by 8 pm, Tuesday, May 16, 2023.
Remember to sign your ballot envelope. Ballots that are mailed, postmarked by the United States
Postal Service (USPS) by 8 pm on Election Day and received by the Clerk’s Office by May 23 will
be accepted.
Deschutes County November 8, 2022 General Election
Official Ballot Drop Sites
Don’t Delay, Vote Today!
Drop off your ballot at an official drop site location by 8 pm, Tuesday, May 16, 2023.
Remember to sign your ballot envelope.
Drop Site Hours:
Open: Friday, April 28, 2023
Close: Election Day, Tuesday, November 8, 2022 at 8 pm
Drop Site Locations:
Bend
Deschutes
Services Center
1300 NW Wall St,
Bend
(Walk-up & Drive-
through exterior
Drop Boxes
located on west
side of building)
Deschutes
County Road
Department
61150 SE 27th St,
Bend
(Box located on
south end of
parking lot)
Old Mill
459 SW Bluff Dr,
Bend
(Box located on the
knoll above Old Mill
District in parking lot
south of Hilton
Garden Inn hotel)
Bradbury Park &
Ride
1000 SW Bradbury
Way, Bend
(Box located across
from the Park & Rec
Pavilion off of
Simpson &
Columbia)
Pine Nursery
Park
3750 NE Purcell
Blvd, Bend
Open usual park
business hours
(Box located at
east end of
parking lot)
Redmond (New Locations) La Pine Sisters Sunriver
Deschutes
County Expo
Center
(Fairgrounds)
3800 SW Airport
Way, Redmond
(Box located on
roundabout in east
end parking lot)
La Pine Public Library
(Open during construction)
16425 1st St,
La Pine
(Box located at 1st
St & Huntington Rd)
Sisters City Hall
520 E Cascade
Ave, Sisters
(Box located in
front of City Hall)
Sunriver Public
Library
56855 Venture
Ln, Sunriver
(Box located at
Sunriver Business
Park)
County Clerk’s Office, 1300 NW Wall St, Suite 202 (2nd Floor), Bend
Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm | Election Day, 7 am to 8 pm
-- Voting Booths Provided --
Parking Lot
across from
Centennial Park
(Temporarily
moved from the
Redmond Library)
716 SW Evergreen,
Redmond
(Box located at north
end of parking lot)
-- OR --
Mail your voted ballot in your postage-paid return envelope by 8 pm, Tuesday, May 16, 2023.
Remember to sign your ballot envelope. Ballots that are mailed, postmarked by the United States
Postal Service (USPS) by 8 pm on Election Day and received by the Clerk’s Office by May 23 will
be accepted.
May 16, 2023 at 8 pm
Deschutes County May 16, 2023 Special District ElectionOfficial Ballot Drop Sites
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-8 Directions to Your Newest Ballot Drop Sites
Directions to Your Newest Ballot Drop Sites
Watch for signs and banners to direct you to these drop sites.
Deschutes Services Center
1300 NW Wall St, Bend
A new walk-up box is now located on the west
end of the Deschutes Services Building (DSB).
Deschutes County Expo Center
(Fairgrounds)
3800 SW Airport Way, Redmond
Drive-through box is located on the roundabout in
the east end parking lot.
…. Reminders ….
Your Ballot Packet
Your ballot packet will contain at minimum the following items:
•Printed ballot
•Postage-paid return envelope
Signing Your Ballot Return Envelope
Remember to sign your ballot return envelope.
The signature on each voter’s ballot return envelope is verified against the voter’s signature on file.
The signature must match before a ballot can be counted. If your signature has changed, please
update your voter registration.
Returning Your Ballot
No stamp required.
Mail by Election Day, Tuesday, May 16, 2023.
Directions to Your Newest Ballot Drop Sites
Watch for signs and banners to direct you to these drop sites.
Redmond Library Ballot Drop Box Has Temporarily Moved to the Parking Lot at
SW Evergreen Ave & SW 7th St, Redmond
The Redmond Library is under construction until the expected completion date of June 2024. Signage
will be posted directing voters to enter the parking lot via SW 7th St and exit on SW Forest Ave.
Deschutes County Expo Center
(Fairgrounds)
3800 SW Airport Way, Redmond
Drive-through box is located on the round-
about in the east end parking lot.
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-9 Deschutes County Elections: 2024 “I Voted” Sticker Contest
Deschutes County Elections: 2024 “I Voted” Sticker ContestDeschutes County Elections: 2024 “I Voted” Sticker Contest
Deschutes County Clerk's Office invites local students to enter the Deschutes County “I Voted”
Sticker Contest. K-12 students are encouraged to design an “I Voted” sticker that will be used during
the 2024 Presidential Primary and General elections, and featured in each election’s Voters’ Pamphlet.
Elementary school (K-5) sticker design submissions will be accepted through the end of the year, with
the winner announced in February 2024. Middle-high school (6-12) sticker design submissions will be
accepted through the end of June 2024, with the winner announced in August 2024. Winning artwork
will be used in Deschutes County Elections materials, promotions and outreach, and exhibited
throughout the Deschutes County Services Building in downtown Bend.
Contest Details
The “I Voted” Sticker Contest Entry Form and the Design Template are available at the Clerk’s
Office and for download on the Deschutes County Elections website:
www.deschutescounty.gov/artcontest.
Elementary school (K-5) students should mail or deliver their entries by December 31, 2023.
Middle-high school (6-12) students should mail or deliver their entries by June 30, 2024:
In-Person: Deschutes County Clerk's Office, 1300 NW Wall Street, Ste 202, Bend
By Mail: Deschutes County Clerk's Office, “I Voted” Sticker Contest, PO Box 6005, Bend,
Oregon 97708
Email: artcontest@deschutescounty.gov
“I Voted” Sticker Design Contest Rules
•Circular “I Voted” sticker design (will be resized to fit a two inch (2”) diameter sticker)
•Hand rendered and digital designs accepted
o Digital submissions should have a minimum resolution of 300 ppi
o Hand rendered submissions should be drawn on white paper
•Designs should be nonpartisan and should not reference any political group
•Designs must include red, white, and blue colors at a minimum
•Designs must be original work and cannot use or reuse any imagery that is not theirs
(no clip art or copyrighted imagery)
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-10 Measures
Explanatory Statement
This measure will allow the District to hire more firefighter/EMS
personnel to help meet the emergency needs of our fast-growing
community:
• Emergency calls have increased 56% over the past decade.
• Paramedic transports to the hospital in Bend, which take
fire/EMS crews out of the District for more than 2 hours,
have doubled in the past 3 years.
• Over 600 times the District responded to 2 or more concur-
rent emergency calls in 2022.
• In 183 cases, there were no crews available within the
District to respond to emergency calls.
Current levy amounts have not increased since 1998; the existing
levy is set to renew in 2024 with voter approval. This new local
operations levy will allow the addition of up to 9 additional fire-
fighter/EMS personnel, providing an additional crew to respond to
emergencies at all times. The tax will be $0.64/$1000 assessed
property valuation. A home valued at $200,000 would pay $128
per year ($10.66/month).
This levy, in combination with other taxes and fees, will provide
essential funds that will:
• Enable 3 crews to be available at all times for emergency
response.
• Reduce response times, especially during times of multiple
emergency calls.
• Provide essential emergency services during times of multiple
calls, out of area transports and wildland/urban interface fires.
• Improve fire prevention efforts within the District.
The La Pine Rural Fire Protection District has highly trained and
professional career firefighters along with a residential full-immer-
sion student firefighter program and a volunteer support services
group providing essential emergency services to the community.
The District is known for efficient and effective use of taxpayer
funds, maximizing cost recovery and grant opportunities by the
use of best management practices, ongoing strategic planning
processes, ten-year budget planning, and continually analyzing
and improving expense and revenue structures. It maintains the
community’s equipment and facilities without debt. The District’s five
elected Directors have significant public emergency management,
business and healthcare experience. The Directors set the District’s
service goals and provide oversight of fire and EMS operations. The
District has a yearly external audit of its finances and procedures
which is open for public review.
(This information furnished by Doug Cox, La Pine Rural Fire Protection
District.)
Ballot Title9-157
Five-Year operating levy for hiring fire/emergency
medical staff
QUESTION: Shall LRFPD issue a five-year local operating
levy, starting July 2023, to improve fire and emergency medical
staffing? This measure may cause property taxes to increase
more than three percent.
SUMMARY: This measure would authorize the La Pine Rural
Fire Protection District to levy taxes to support the hiring of
additional firefighter/ EMS personnel. The measure provides
for a local option operating levy at a rate of $0.64 per $1000
of taxable assessed value with the District for five years, be-
ginning July 1, 2023. Revenue from the levy would be used
to increase staffing in order to assure adequate emergency
response times. Emergency calls have increased dramatically
in the past few years. The funds raised will:
* Allow hiring of up to an additional 9 new firefighter/EMS
positions
* Enable 3 crews to be available at all times for emergency
response within the District
* Provide essential emergency services/staffing during
times of multiple emergency calls, out of area transports
and wildland/urban interface events.
Estimated revenues over 5 years is:
Fiscal Year Estimated Yearly Total
2023-24 $1,379,698
2024-25 $1,421,089
2025-26 $1,463,722
2026-27 $1,507,633
2027-28 $1,552,862
The estimated tax cost for this measure is an ESTIMATE ONLY
based on the best information available from the county asses-
sor at the time of the estimate and may reflect the impact of
early payment discounts, compression and the collection rate.
Measure 9-157 La Pine Rural Fire Protection District
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-11 Measures
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by the
County of Deschutes, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth
of any statement made in the argument.
The La Pine Professional Fighter’s Association Local 3387 sup-
ports Measure 9-157. This measure allows the fire district to
hire the much-needed firefighters and EMTs to provide the ser-
vice the community of La Pine is accustomed to and deserves.
The volume of calls has increased over the past ten years with
a noted sharp increase over the past two years of 22%. This
increase in call volume coupled with long transport times to
the hospital in Bend has left the community of La Pine without
fire or EMS coverage 183 times in 2022. The Local 3387 feels
strongly that 183 times is 183 times too many. Passing this levy
would allow the district to hire enough staff to ensure that every
time someone calls 911, a crew is close by to respond. If this
measure does not pass, we will continue to provide the same
high standard of service but our response times will continue to
increase.
(This information furnished by Kyle Lohner, La Pine professional Firefighters
Local 3387 President.)
Argument in Favor
Measure 9-157 Arguments
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-12 Measures
Explanatory Statement
The measure, if approved, would authorize the City of Bend to
levy taxes for fire and emergency services at a rate of $.76 cents
per $1,000 of assessed property value for five years, begin-
ning July 1, 2024. If approved, the levy would raise a projected
$11,765,000 in the fiscal year 2024-25, and an estimated total
of approximately $65,008,000 over the five-year period. Voters
approved a $.20/$1,000 assessed value for fire and emergency
services in 2014 and 2018; that levy expires in June 2024.
Bend Fire & Rescue provides fire suppression, emergency
medical care and transport, technical rescue, and fire preven-
tion services. The population of Bend and the demand on fire
and emergency services continues to grow. The increase in call
volume has made it necessary to add essential staff who can
respond to meet this increased demand and maintain appropri-
ate call response times. Revenue from this levy would be used to
add staff to ensure adequate emergency response times, which
lead to better patient outcomes. The funding would also support
additional training and equipment necessary to maintain services.
If approved, the proposed levy would pay for the following:
• Maintaining staff to ensure sufficient personnel can provide
timely services in emergency situations.
• Adding firefighter/paramedics to staff a fourth Advanced Life
Support ambulance to keep pace with the increase in calls
for medical emergencies.
• Adding Emergency Medical Technicians to staff a second
Basic Life Support ambulance that can respond to non-life-
threatening calls and keep emergency vehicles available.
• Firefighter and emergency medical safety equipment.
• Tools for firefighting and emergency medical response.
• Technology enhancements.
(This information furnished by Robyn Christie.)
Ballot Title9-158
Five-year local option levy for fire and emergency
medical services.
QUESTION: Should Bend issue a five-year local option levy of
$.76/$1,000 assessed value for fire and emergency services
beginning July 2024?
This measure may cause property taxes to increase more
than three percent.
SUMMARY: The measure, if approved, authorizes the City
of Bend to levy taxes to support the annual cost of fire and
emergency medical services. The measure would provide for
a local option operating levy at a rate of $.76 cents per $1,000
of assessed value for five years, beginning July 1, 2024. The
prior levy of $.20/$1,000 of assessed value expires June
30, 2024, and on expiration would be replaced by this levy.
Revenue from the levy would be used to provide sufficient
staffing with the goal of assuring adequate response times.
The funding could also support additional training and equip-
ment necessary to maintain services.
The estimated revenue over five years is:
2024-2025 $11,765,000
2025-2026 $12,353,000
2026-2027 $12,971,000
2027-2028 $13,619,000
2028-2029 $14,300,000
If the maximum levy is assessed, the estimated total revenue
raised over five years would be approximately $65,008,000.
The estimated tax cost for this measure is an ESTIMATE ONLY
based on the best information available from the county asses-
sor at the time of the estimate and may reflect the impact of
early payment discounts, compression and the collection rate.
Measure 9-158 City of Bend
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-13 Measures
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by the
County of Deschutes, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth
of any statement made in the argument.
Argument in Favor Argument in Favor
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by the
County of Deschutes, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth
of any statement made in the argument.
As the supervising physicians of Bend Fire & Rescue, we urge
you to vote YES in support of measures 9-158 and 9-159. These
measures will support and enhance the lifesaving and innova-
tive services for which Bend Fire & Rescue are regionally and
nationally recognized. Fast response times for emergencies like
a heart attack, stroke, and trauma are critical for positive patient
outcomes. Our community is growing fast and threatening Bend
Fire’s ability to continue to respond in a timely fashion. We
witnessed firsthand the negative patient outcomes of delayed
response times in 2012 and 2013. You graciously responded
by supporting Bend Fire with two levy’s in the ensuing 10 years
and we need your support again. This levy will allow Bend Fire
to maintain and ensure sufficient staffing for timely emergency
response, to develop new and innovative treatment programs,
and to increase emergency response training for personnel. You
helped Bend Fire become the leader in cardiac arrest survival in
Oregon, the region, and nationally. We need your support again.
Please join us in supporting our community’s health.
Nicole Kelly, MD and William Reed, MD
Physician Advisors for Bend Fire & Rescue
(This information furnished by William Reed, Physician Advisor for Bend
Fire & Rescue.)
The Bend City Council encourages you to vote yes on Measure
9-158. This operating levy will help Bend Fire and Rescue im-
prove their response, save more lives and property, and keep
pace with our growing demands for service.
Since first passing a levy in 2014, Bend Fire and Rescue has
created new, innovative, and fiscally prudent systems that
places the right resource with the right call by using a tiered
response system. This approach has resulted in quicker
response times and better patient outcomes, for example,
improving the chance that someone will survive a heart attack.
This levy is needed to continue that trend and further protect
our community given the ever-increasing complexity of emer-
gency medical calls and mounting threat of wildfire. We rely on
our first responders to keep us safe in this changing environ-
ment and want to make sure they have the tools to do their job.
Additionally, the levy rate has not increased since it was first
approved 10 years ago, despite an over 60% increase in calls
for service during that same time period.
The Bend City Council has worked diligently with our Rural
Fire Protection District partners this past year to make sure this
levy rate maximizes our tax dollars and continues to deliver the
high-quality public safety response system that we’ve come to
expect. That’s why we as a seven-member elected board have
unanimously supported this measure. Please join us in keeping
Bend safe and vote YES on Measure 9-158.
Melanie Kebler, Mayor of Bend
Megan Perkins, Mayor Pro Tem of Bend
Anthony Broadman, Bend City Councilor
Barb Campbell, Bend City Councilor
Ariel Méndez, Bend City Councilor
Megan Norris, Bend City Councilor
Mike Riley, Bend City Councilor
(This information furnished by Melanie Kebler, Bend City Council.)
Measure 9-158 Arguments
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-14 Measures
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by the
County of Deschutes, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth
of any statement made in the argument.
Argument in Favor Argument in Favor
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by the
County of Deschutes, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth
of any statement made in the argument.
Like most residents of Bend, I’m aware of how fortunate we are
to live in such a beautiful and vibrant community.
But as our community grows, so do the needs of our local fire
department, Bend Fire & Rescue.
Call volumes to Bend Fire & Rescue have increased by 63
percent since 2014, the last time the fire department asked
voters to increase our local fire levy. Our organizations, the Old
Mill District and Hayden Homes Amphitheater, proudly work
together with Bend Fire & Rescue and know first-hand how cre-
ative they are in making their tax dollars go as far as possible.
But you can only stretch an outdated budget for so long. Bend
has added more than 20,000 new residents since 2014 and our
fire department desperately needs additional funds to keep up
with our city’s current demands.
This new levy will allow Bend Fire & Rescue to not only main-
tain existing staffing levels, but will also ensure they can hire
additional employees as Bend continues to grow.
Please join me in voting YES on Measures 9-158 and 9-159
to ensure that Bend Fire & Rescue can continue providing the
highest level of service to our community.
Marney Smith
President of the Old Mill District and Hayden Homes
Amphitheater
(This information furnished by Marney Smith, Old Mill District and Hayden
Homes Amphitheater.)
I am voting YES on Measures 9-158 and 9-159 because I have
witnessed hundreds of lives saved by Bend Fire & Rescue,
including my own.
Last year, I was hit by a truck while riding my bike. I was criti-
cally injured with several broken bones throughout my body,
and as a long-time ER nurse, I knew I had a minimal chance of
survival. BF&R’s quick treatment and transport saved my life.
BF&R’s firefighter/paramedics are truly exceptional. I know
this because of my work as a charge nurse in emergency
departments throughout the state. I have coordinated care
for hundreds of patients with BF&R. I have seen first-hand
the results of their department training and performing cutting
edge, life-saving treatments. Their survival rates speak to this
commitment.
During critical calls, such as mine, fast response times are im-
perative for better patient outcomes: this means less prehospi-
tal deaths in our community, and mitigated long term effects of
sudden cardiac arrest, severe illness, and traumatic accidents.
Healthcare providers are seeing the effect of the growth of
our community, and fire and rescue call volume is increasing.
BF&R crews are frequently called to multiple emergencies at
once. If a critical call comes in during this busy time, a crew
may not be available to respond. This delay in response and
treatment can make all the difference in a positive versus
negative outcome.
This levy will allow BF&R to retain and hire more firefighter/
paramedics which is critical for them to be able to respond to
the increased call volume, support the continued training, ap-
propriate growth, and excellence in care that our community is
extremely fortunate to receive from BF&R.
Please, join me in supporting Bend Fire & Rescue to keep our
community safe and healthy. For me, for you, for our family,
friends, children, and neighbors. Vote YES.
Emma Vlossak
Register Nurse, BSN, CPEN
(This information furnished by Emma Vlossak.)
Measure 9-158 Arguments
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-15 Measures
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by the
County of Deschutes, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth
of any statement made in the argument.
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by the
County of Deschutes, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth
of any statement made in the argument.
Measure 9-158 Arguments
Accurate fiscal analysis outweighs emotional appeals.
VOTE NO. City has 2 elections to get it right.
Where is the city’s detailed financial analysis used to justify
$0.76/$1000TAV? See example below.
Is this a “bait & switch” tactic that indirectly reduces the Fire
Fund’s General Fund revenue subsidy?
• After changing only the “rate,” a higher “tax” indirectly reduces
the General fund subsidy by nearly half which provides Council
with $7.5M for new uses.
Is the Council aware of several questionable financial decisions?
• On July 2021, the city adopted 4.7% annual increases in the Fire/EMS
2021-23 two-yr. budget. In contrast, the annual increases in the previ-
ous 8 years averaged 8.0% per year. Was this “budget shortfall”
intentional?
• Special funding hired 9 employees to handle “increased calls”, but staff
failed to disclose more calls leads to more “service charges” revenue
(34%/$1.5M more than the previous year). Was special funding
necessary?
The latest disclosure failure is that the actual “service charges” revenue
from July 2022 to December 2022 has quickly fallen about 25% to a pre-
pandemic level. Is call volume actually decreasing after the pandemic?
(This information furnished by Mike Walker.)
When I was a Bend city councilor and mayor, we all took seri-
ously our responsibility to adequately fund all public safety needs,
before anything else. However recent city councils have used
funding for public safety as a means to augment the general
fund: a levy “for the fire department” threatening service if the
levy failed. In reality this is a way to increase money available in
the general fund for whatever use the city decides.
The City’s decision to present a $0.78 levy, an increase of 280%
from the existing levy, far exceeds the normal increase in funding
for fire services. The city’s proposed budget for 2021-23 shows
that under present conditions $33.8 million of the fire budget is
from the general fund and $5.5 million from the present levy. If
the proposal passes, each would provide $19.6 million. The ad-
dition $14 million from the levy goes to whatever programs the
council wishes to pursue.
Some other observations:
. The city permanent tax rate is $2.76. The passage of the pro-
posed $0.78 represents 26% more tax revenue.
. The current levy provides 9% of the fire department funding and
the general fund 55%. (Other major funding sources include the
rural fire district and billing for ambulance services.) The proposal
would shift the balance between the general fund and the levy
to 32% each. It would give the city an additional $14 million to
spend as it wants.
. if the city wants $14 million for new programs it should present
these for voter approval, not threaten inadequate fire services in
order to fund miscellaneous projects.
. Clearly this huge levy is not just for fire department needs, it
is to provide money for miscellaneous unidentified programs. It
is dangerous policy to fund essential services with a short-term
levy. What happens if, perhaps during a recession, voters say no
next time? This would require drastic spending cuts, and make
maintaining adequate essential services extremely difficult.
(This information furnished by Allan Bruckner.)
Argument in OppositionArgument in Opposition
Accurate fiscal analysis outweights emotional appeals. VOTE NO. City has 2 elections to get it right.
Where is the city's detailed financial analysis used to justify $0.78/$1000TAV? See example below.
FY23 FY24
FY22 actuals increases increases
Tax levy $0.20/$1000 TAV $2.7M 5%5%
Special "Bridge" funding $0 $1.8M 5%
All other revenue $28.9M 5%5%
New employees expense $0 ($1.8M)5%
All other expenditures ($30.4M)5%5%
Net surplus $1.2M $1.2M $1.2M
FY 25 increases and new levy
Tax levy $0.76/$1000 TAV $11.7M
Bridge funding expired $0
All other revenue 5%
New employees expense 5%
All other expenditures 5%
Net surplus $7.9M
Is this a "bait & switch" tactic that indirectly reduces the Fire Fund's General Fund Revenue subsidy?
Fiscal year 2022 (actual)"revenue"share
Tax levy $0.20/$1000 TAV 2,677,807$ 8%
General fund subsidy 16,677,667$ 53%
Other revenue 12,162,322$ 39%
total fund revenue 31,517,796$
Fiscal year 2022 (revised)"revenue"share
New levy $0.76/$1000 TAV 10,175,666$ 32%
General fund subsidy 9,179,808$ 29%
Other revenue 12,162,322$ 39%
total fund revenue 31,517,796$
Is the Council aware of several questionable financial decisions?
> On July 2021, the city adopted 4.7% annual increases in the Fire/EMS 2021-23 two-yr. budget. In contrast, the annual
increases in the previous 8 years averaged 8.0% per year. Was this "budget shortfall intential?
> Special funding hired 9 employees to handle "increased calls," but stff failed to disclose more calls leads to
more "service charges" revenue (34%/$1.5M more that the previous year). Was special funding necessary?
> The latest disclosure failure is that the actual "service charges" revenue from July 2022 to December 2022 has
quickly fallen about 25% to a pre-pandemic level. Is call volume actually decreasing after the pandemic?
Accurate fiscal analysis outweights emotional appeals. VOTE NO. City has 2 elections to get it right.
Where is the city's detailed financial analysis used to justify $0.78/$1000TAV? See example below.
FY23 FY24
FY22 actuals increases increases
Tax levy $0.20/$1000 TAV $2.7M 5%5%
Special "Bridge" funding $0 $1.8M 5%
All other revenue $28.9M 5%5%
New employees expense $0 ($1.8M)5%
All other expenditures ($30.4M)5%5%
Net surplus $1.2M $1.2M $1.2M
FY 25 increases and new levy
Tax levy $0.76/$1000 TAV $11.7M
Bridge funding expired $0
All other revenue 5%
New employees expense 5%
All other expenditures 5%
Net surplus $7.9M
Is this a "bait & switch" tactic that indirectly reduces the Fire Fund's General Fund Revenue subsidy?
Fiscal year 2022 (actual)"revenue"share
Tax levy $0.20/$1000 TAV 2,677,807$ 8%
General fund subsidy 16,677,667$ 53%
Other revenue 12,162,322$ 39%
total fund revenue 31,517,796$
Fiscal year 2022 (revised)"revenue"share
New levy $0.76/$1000 TAV 10,175,666$ 32%
General fund subsidy 9,179,808$ 29%
Other revenue 12,162,322$ 39%
total fund revenue 31,517,796$
Is the Council aware of several questionable financial decisions?
> On July 2021, the city adopted 4.7% annual increases in the Fire/EMS 2021-23 two-yr. budget. In contrast, the annual
increases in the previous 8 years averaged 8.0% per year. Was this "budget shortfall intential?
> Special funding hired 9 employees to handle "increased calls," but stff failed to disclose more calls leads to
more "service charges" revenue (34%/$1.5M more that the previous year). Was special funding necessary?
> The latest disclosure failure is that the actual "service charges" revenue from July 2022 to December 2022 has
quickly fallen about 25% to a pre-pandemic level. Is call volume actually decreasing after the pandemic?
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-16 Measures
Explanatory Statement
The measure, if approved, would authorize the Deschutes County
Rural Fire Protection District #2 to levy taxes for fire and emer-
gency services at a rate of $.76 cents per $1,000 of assessed
property value for five years, beginning July 1, 2024. If approved,
the levy would raise a projected $3,080,000 in fiscal year 2024-
2025, and an estimated total of approximately $17,333,000 over
the five-year period. Voters approved a $.20/$1,000 assessed
value for fire and emergency services in 2014 and 2018; that
levy expires in June 2024.
Bend Fire & Rescue provides fire suppression, emergency
medical care and transport, technical rescue, and fire prevention
services. The demand on fire and emergency services continues
to grow. The increase in call volume has made it necessary
to add essential staff who can respond to meet this increased
demand and maintain appropriate call response times. Revenue
from this levy would be used to add staff to ensure adequate
emergency response times, which lead to better patient outcomes.
The funding would also support additional training and equipment
necessary to maintain services.
If approved, the proposed levy would pay for the following:
• Maintaining staff to ensure sufficient personnel can provide
timely services in emergency situations.
• Adding firefighter/paramedics to staff a fourth Advanced Life
Support ambulance to keep pace with the increase in calls
for medical emergencies.
• Adding Emergency Medical Technicians to staff a second
Basic Life Support ambulance that can respond to non-life-
threatening calls and keep emergency vehicles available.
• Firefighter and emergency medical safety equipment.
• Tools for firefighting and emergency medical response.
• Technology enhancements.
(This information furnished by Gary Marshall, Executive Director for
Deschutes County Rural Fire Protection District #2.)
Ballot Title9-159
Five-year local option levy for fire-emergency
medical services.
QUESTION: Should DCRFPD#2 issue an operating levy
$.76/$1,000 assessed value for fire-emergency services be-
ginning July 2024 for five years? This property measure may
cause property taxes to increase more than three percent.
SUMMARY: The measure, if approved, authorizes the
Deschutes County Rural Fire Protection District #2 (DCRF-
PD#2) to levy taxes to support the annual cost of fire and
emergency medical services. The measure would provide for
a local option operating levy at a rate of $.76 cents per $1,000
of assessed value for five years, beginning July 1, 2024. The
prior levy of $.20/$1,000 of assessed value expires June 30,
2024, and on expiration would be replaced by this levy. Rev-
enue from the levy would be used to provide sufficient staff-
ing with the goal of assuring adequate response times. The
funding could also support additional training and equipment
necessary to maintain services. The rate of $.76 cents per
$1,000 of assessed real property value is projected to raise
approximately $17,333,000 over five years. The estimated tax
cost for this measure is an ESTIMATE ONLY based on the
best information available from the county assessor at the time
of the estimate and may reflect the impact of early payment
discounts, compression and the collection rate.
The estimated revenue over five years is:
2024-2025 $3,080,000
2025-2026 $3,262,000
2026-2027 $3,455,000
2027-2028 $3,660,000
2028-2029 $3,876,000
Measure 9-159 Deschutes County Rural Fire Protection District #2
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-17 Measures
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by the
County of Deschutes, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth
of any statement made in the argument.
Argument in Favor Argument in Favor
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by the
County of Deschutes, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth
of any statement made in the argument.
Measure 9-159 Arguments
The levy to help fund Bend Fire and Rescue, cosponsored by the
City of Bend and Deschutes Rural Fire Protection District #2, is
an absolutely critical component of fire and life safety. The staffing
issues which this levy addresses will lead to lower response times,
more efficient firefighting and emergency medical service opera-
tions, an increased chance of survival of life-threatening incidents,
more effective wildfire prevention measures and an increased
likelihood that district properties will survive a wildland fire.
The Fire District was able to build new fire stations in Tumalo
and at Pilot Butte without increasing taxes. These facilities have
helped decrease response times and increase survival of cardiac
events. The District contracts with the City of Bend for fire and
emergency medical services and depends on Bend Fire when,
not if, the next big wildfire occurs.
Wildland fires are our greatest natural disaster and have increased
in intensity, posing an ever greater risk of life and property loss.
The increased demands on fire and rescue services have resulted
in increased costs of operation. In order to maintain the level of
outstanding service, it has become necessary for the District and
the City to request additional funding.
It is critical that our District be able to provide the funding to protect
our citizens as effectively as possible. This funding will increase
staffing to safer levels, thus increasing crew availability. Equip-
ment can’t put out fire or save patients without trained people.
This levy accomplishes that and in doing so will raise the odds
of saving lives and property in a life threatening situation, either
medical or fire.
We strongly urge you to join us and vote YES on Measure 9-159.
Please become a partner in protection with the Fire District and
give our community the best chance for survival.
Endorsed by:
George Roshak, President, DCRFPD#2
Ray Miao, VP, DCRFPD#2
Kent Haarberg, Sec/Treas., DCRFPD#2
Oliver Tatom, Board Member, DCRFPD#2
Gary Cadez, Board Member, DCRFPD#2
(This information furnished by Ray Miao, Deschutes County Rural Fire
Protection District #2.)
As the supervising physicians of Bend Fire & Rescue, we urge
you to vote YES in support of measures 9-158 and 9-159. These
measures will support and enhance the lifesaving and innova-
tive services for which Bend Fire & Rescue are regionally and
nationally recognized. Fast response times for emergencies like
a heart attack, stroke, and trauma are critical for positive patient
outcomes. Our community is growing fast and threatening Bend
Fire’s ability to continue to respond in a timely fashion. We
witnessed firsthand the negative patient outcomes of delayed
response times in 2012 and 2013. You graciously responded
by supporting Bend Fire with two levy’s in the ensuing 10 years
and we need your support again. This levy will allow Bend Fire
to maintain and ensure sufficient staffing for timely emergency
response, to develop new and innovative treatment programs,
and to increase emergency response training for personnel. You
helped Bend Fire become the leader in cardiac arrest survival in
Oregon, the region, and nationally. We need your support again.
Please join us in supporting our community’s health.
Nicole Kelly, MD and William Reed, MD
Physician Advisors for Bend Fire & Rescue
(This information furnished by William Reed, Physician Advisor for Bend
Fire & Rescue.)
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-18 Measures
Argument in Favor
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by the
County of Deschutes, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth
of any statement made in the argument.
Measure 9-159 Arguments
I am voting YES on Measures 9-158 and 9-159 because I have
witnessed hundreds of lives saved by Bend Fire & Rescue,
including my own.
Last year, I was hit by a truck while riding my bike. I was criti-
cally injured with several broken bones throughout my body,
and as a long-time ER nurse, I knew I had a minimal chance of
survival. BF&R’s quick treatment and transport saved my life.
BF&R’s firefighter/paramedics are truly exceptional. I know
this because of my work as a charge nurse in emergency
departments throughout the state. I have coordinated care
for hundreds of patients with BF&R. I have seen first-hand
the results of their department training and performing cutting
edge, life-saving treatments. Their survival rates speak to this
commitment.
During critical calls, such as mine, fast response times are im-
perative for better patient outcomes: this means less prehospi-
tal deaths in our community, and mitigated long term effects of
sudden cardiac arrest, severe illness, and traumatic accidents.
Healthcare providers are seeing the effect of the growth of
our community, and fire and rescue call volume is increasing.
BF&R crews are frequently called to multiple emergencies at
once. If a critical call comes in during this busy time, a crew
may not be available to respond. This delay in response and
treatment can make all the difference in a positive versus
negative outcome.
This levy will allow BF&R to retain and hire more firefighter/
paramedics which is critical for them to be able to respond to
the increased call volume, support the continued training, ap-
propriate growth, and excellence in care that our community is
extremely fortunate to receive from BF&R.
Please, join me in supporting Bend Fire & Rescue to keep our
community safe and healthy. For me, for you, for our family,
friends, children, and neighbors. Vote YES.
Emma Vlossak
Register Nurse, BSN, CPEN
(This information furnished by Emma Vlossak.)
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-19 Measures
Explanatory Statement
This is a renewal of a local option levy for Sisters Park &
Recreation District that was passed in 2018. If renewed, Sisters
Park & Recreation District (SPRD) would be authorized to renew
a levy at the current rate of $0.15 per $1,000 of assessed property
value to maintain district programs and facilities. The owner of a
home with a total assessed value of $255,000, the median total
assessed property value in Sisters Park & Recreation District,
would pay less than $3.19 a month, or $38.25 per year. This year,
the local option levy provided approximately $260,403 additional
funds to the district, which is 20% of the district’s annual budget.
Sisters Park & Recreation District provides exceptional recre-
ational opportunities that enhance the livability of the Sisters
community. SPRD is a special purpose taxing district, independent
from the City of Sisters, whose service boundaries are closely
aligned with Sisters School District, including the city, with the
exception of Black Butte Ranch.
Programs provided by the district include all day preschool care,
afterschool care, youth athletics, middle school youth center,
summer day camps, adult fitness, adult athletics, senior enrich-
ment, and community events. Additionally, the district maintains
a skatepark, bike park, disc golf course, and community center.
The approval of the 2018 local option levy allowed the district to
reduce barriers for participation by decreasing afterschool pro-
gram fees and increasing district scholarships for lower income
families by 233%. Local option levy funds allowed the district to
expand offerings to meet community needs. The district was also
able to improve and enhance maintenance of the Coffield Center,
skatepark, disc golf park and bike park. Additionally, local option
levy funds allowed the district to achieve financial stability through
the development of appropriate cash reserves, eliminating the need
for short term loans to maintain operations.
Revenue from the renewed levy would be used to maintain and
grow current program and service levels and maintain and expand
district facilities to meet community needs. If approved, the levy
would allow the district to:
• increase childcare capacity;
• expand senior recreation activities, programs, and events;
• subsidize youth and senior programs to keep fees affordable
and programs accessible;
• maintain staffing levels to provide consistent level of service
to the community;
• enhance partnerships to expand operations; and
• maintain and expand district facilities to meet community
needs.
If not approved, the district would:
• be required to decrease its budget by approximately $277,352
annually or approximately 20%;
• substantially raise program registration fees;
• decrease or eliminate some programs and services; and
• reduce facility maintenance standards
(This information furnished by Jennifer Holland, Executive Director, Sisters
Park & Recreation District.)
Ballot Title9-160
Renew five-year levy to maintain recreation
programs and facilities.
QUESTION: Shall SPRD renew its $0.15 per $1,000 of
assessed value to maintain programs/facilities, beginning
2023-2024, for five years? This measure renews the current
local option taxes.
SUMMARY: In May 2018, voters approved a local option levy
of $0.15 per $1,000 of assessed property value to support
Sisters Park & Recreation District’s programs and facilities
which expires in June 2023. This measure will not increase
current taxes and would renew the current levy for five years
at the same rate approved in 2018.
Sisters Park & Recreation District would use funds to maintain
programs and services, including programs for youth offered
for children from preschool to high school; programs for adults
of all ages, including seniors, that focus on health, fitness, and
education; community events for all ages, and maintenance of
skatepark, disc golf course, bike park, and community center.
The owner of a home assessed at $255,000, the median as-
sessed property value in Sisters Park & Recreation District,
would pay less than $3.19 per month or $38.25 per year.
The rate renewal will raise approximately $277,352, in 2023-
2024, $289,833, in 2024-2025, $302,875 in 2025-2026,
$316,505 in 2026-2027, and $330,748 in 2027-2028, for a
total of $1,517,313.
Measure 9-160 Sisters Park & Recreation District
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-20 Measures
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by the
County of Deschutes, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth
of any statement made in the argument.
Argument in Favor Argument in Favor
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by the
County of Deschutes, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth
of any statement made in the argument.
As President of the board of directors for Sisters Park and
Recreation District (SPRD), I urge you to support Measure
9-160, the local option levy designed to maintain and enhance
services provided by SPRD. Passage by the voters of the
initial local option levy in 2018 provided much needed relief to
SPRD, a publicly supported agency that had been getting by on
bare bones budgets for many years. The renewal of the local
option levy would continue the current levy rate of $0.15 per
$1,000 on total assessed value which means the owner of a
home of $255,000, the median assessed value, pays less than
$40 annually.
The passage of the levy in 2018 reaped the following
benefits: 1) allowed hundreds more children to engage in high
quality preschool and after-school programs; 2) offered over
300 programs, with a strong emphasis on health, wellness,
and outdoor activities, available for all district residents; 3) con-
tinued events, like the Sisters Basketball Shootout and SALI
Lacrosse Tournament , that greatly benefit both the community
and local businesses; 4) reduced the backlog of maintenance
projects and funded a capital reserve account ; and 5) recruited
and retained experienced staff providing high quality services
to Sisters Country residents.
These results closely align with what the board said it would
do with the funds generated by the 2018 levy.
If the levy is renewed for another five years, SPRD will
continue to expand recreational services and care programs,
hold community wide events and chip away at the remaining
maintenance backlog. Additionally, SPRD will continue its work
with the Sisters School District to convert the current elemen-
tary school to a community focused activity center in 2024.
Without passage of Measure 9-160, SPRD would be forced
to cut back many of its services to pre-2018 levels and the
board would be required to reassess the ability of engaging in
any expansion projects.
Please join me in voting YES on Measure 9-160.
(This information furnished by Peggy Tehan.)
I have called Sisters my home since 1978, and worked as a
School Nurse in the Sisters School District for many years.
My family and I have had the opportunity to learn and be
active through the Sisters Park & Recreation District (SPRD)
programs, from Pre-School for my grand-daughter, summer
soccer camps for my grandson, and lessons and healthy
activities for myself. Supporting SPRD supports all of us as a
community, providing opportunities to meet and engage new
friends, stay fit, and learn new skills.
I urge you to continue to support our SPRD by approving Local
Option Measure 9-160.
I have seen how their excellent programming has benefited
the children and families of this district, from offerings for
Pre-School Children through Senior programming. Summer
Soccer camps, educational offerings such as Lunch & Learn
and Ukulele lessons, and many other sports and recreation
programs all enrich our children’s and families’ lives.
The local option levy is a renewal request, and would continue
the current rate of $0.15 per $1,000 of assessed property
value. No increase in taxes would occur as a result of your vote
of support of this measure.
SPRD uses these funds to keep the cost of programs reason-
able, provide scholarships, train staff, maintain the facilities,
and sustain and expand programs for youth, adults and se-
niors. If it is not renewed, the SPRD budget would be reduced
by 20%. We would see fewer programs, or increased fees, and
the necessary maintenance of facilities might be postponed.
Most importantly, the health and well-being of our children and
adults who live here would be negatively affected. Your support
is very important to keep SPRD operating and improving, and
to continue to provide their excellent offerings, for all of us.
Please vote YES to support the SPRD Local Option Measure
9-160.
(This information furnished by Sally Benton.)
Measure 9-160 Arguments
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-21 Measures
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by the
County of Deschutes, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth
of any statement made in the argument.
Argument in Favor Argument in Favor
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by the
County of Deschutes, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth
of any statement made in the argument.
As a member of the Sisters Country Pickleball Club, I strongly
support the Sisters Park and Recreation District’s (SPRD)
local option tax levy, Measure 9-160. Please join me in voting
yes on the measure. The local option levy is a renewal of a
levy passed in 2018 in the amount of 15 cents per $1,000 of
assessed valuation. The permanent tax rate (22 cents per
$1,000) combined with the local option levy rate is among the
lowest in Central Oregon. This is a small price to pay for the
outstanding services SPRD provides our community.
Sisters Country is a beautiful area for sports-oriented residents
and visitors alike. And yet, every town in Deschutes County
has permanent public pickleball facilities, except Sisters. In
2019, the Sisters Country Pickleball Club organized as a
committee of SPRD to promote public pickleball courts. To
date, the club boasts 226 members and continues to grow
and advocate for the sport. The club led the effort to create
two temporary pickleball courts at the Locust Street tennis
courts. Those courts will be demolished in 2024 to make way
for the much-needed traffic roundabout. To assure that public
pickleball courts are available in Sisters, the club plans to
partner with SPRD and other public and private organizations
to develop new courts soon.
I strongly support SPRD’s leadership role in providing recre-
ation services to all age groups in the community. Please join
me in voting yes on Measure 9-160.
(This information furnished by Bruce Carpenter.)
Measure 9-160 Arguments
As a father of a 7-year-old, an involved community member,
and a small business owner here in Sisters, Oregon, I am
writing to urge you to support Measure 9-160, the local option
levy designed to maintain and enhance services provided by
the Sisters Park and Recreation District (SPRD).
Since the day we moved to Sisters, we have taken advantage
of the wonderful programs and activities that SPRD has offered
to the community. In fact, our son’s first friends were made at
a SPRD summer camp, and we have made many more since,
through their stellar community offerings. From that first day,
now our entire family has taken advantage of many SPRD
programs and activities; from Adult Softball to the Kids Soccer
League, and from Lego Camps to riding the Bike Park to the
Soccer Camps.
The renewal option of this existing levy is much needed for this
district to continue offering the children and adults of Sisters
these quality programs like their Pre School, Senior Programs,
Free Summer Playground Programs, Wellness Classes, and
the many other outdoor activities, classes, and sporting tourna-
ments that they offer. SPRD already does so much with so
little, and as a parent, coach, and member of the Sisters coun-
try community, I do not want to see any cutbacks in services
that we have grown to love and cherish.
Please join myself and my family in voting YES on Measure
9-160 to ensure quality recreation, community services, and
events for all of Sisters Country into the future.
(This information furnished by Eli Madrone.)
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-22 Measures
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by the
County of Deschutes, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth
of any statement made in the argument.
Argument in Favor Argument in Favor
The printing of this argument does not constitute an endorsement by the
County of Deschutes, nor does the county warrant the accuracy or truth
of any statement made in the argument.
I urge you to support renewal of the Sisters Park and
Recreation District (SPRD) local option levy, Measure 9-106.
In 2018, voters in Sisters approved the initial levy to assist
SPRD in providing expanded services far beyond what their
minimal tax base could provide. The renewal will extend the
first measure’s tax rate of $.015 per $1000.00 of assessed
property value for another five years. A yes vote on Measure
9-106 will not cause an increase in your tax rate.
In spite of the shutdowns mandated by Covid 19, SPRD has
still managed to increase program offerings, hire new staff and
expand their preschool and after school programs. This would
not have been possible without the increase in funds provided
by the original levy.
The levy renewal will allow SPRD to retain experienced staff,
continue to address a backlog of facility maintenance, and
most importantly continue and expand regional activities which
bring competitors and their families to Sisters, benefiting our
local businesses, hotels and eateries.
SPRD is working closely with the School District to create a
community center at the current elementary school when the
students move to the new elementary school in 2024. This
conversion does not occur in a vacuum. It requires the kind of
resources which the renewal of this levy will provide.
As a current City Councilor, I know that making a community
center, at the soon to be vacant elementary school, is a high
priority on community surveys. I am convinced that should
this levy not be renewed, SPRD will not have the resources to
move forward with this effort, and the community will lose this
one-time opportunity.
Please join me in voting yes on Measure 9-106
(This information furnished by Gary Ross.)
As an active senior and local resident, I urge you to vote
‘Yes’ on the Sisters Park and Recreation District Local Option
Levy. For years, Sisters Park and Recreation District (SPRD)
has provided a wide range of activities for every age group.
Although COVID hampered in-person participation, the pro-
gram schedule is back in full swing and new classes are being
added all the time. Zumba, Ukulele, Lunch and Learn and
Tai Chi are just a few of the many activities that help keep me
healthy and connected to new friends. This vote is to renew
the existing option levy at the same rate, not a rate increase,
and it is money well spent. Please vote ‘Yes” on the Sisters
Park and Recreation District Local Option Levy and continue
to provide our kids, teens and adults with opportunities to play,
learn, grow and thrive.
(This information furnished by Dixie Eckford.)
Measure 9-160 Arguments
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-23 Measures
Explanatory Statement
The Sisters Local Option Levy has been in place since 2000 and
renewed by Sisters School District voters in 2004, 2009, 2013
and 2018. If renewed in 2023, the proposed levy would provide
the Sisters School District (SSD) with a continuation of these local
taxes at the rate of $.75 per $1,000.00 of a property’s assessed
value for the next five years. A home with an assessed value
of $500,000 would pay $31.25 monthly or $375 annually. This
year, the Local Option provided the District with approximately
$1,800,000 to supplement its $18.5 million budget or about 10%
of the District’s annual budget.
If not renewed, the District will have to cut an average of
$1,800,000 annually from the budget for the next five years. This
loss equates to the reduction of 21 school days or 16 teachers
and various support staff or the elimination of special program-
ing like aviation, art, music, sports, and other extra-curricular
opportunities.
In the face of significant and unpredictable funding from the State
of Oregon, the Sisters Local Option has allowed the District to
preserve school days, retain highly qualified staff, maintain small
class sizes, and offer a well-rounded academic program includ-
ing honors and Advanced Placement courses. The Local Option
finances enriched program offerings including inter-disciplinary
environmental education, one of three Luthier programs in the
nation, aviation, music, art, foreign languages, plus co-curricular
activities and sports.
Sisters Schools are focused on excellence. During 2021-22:
• Test scores ranked among the highest in Central Oregon.
• We have School Counselors in every building.
• The graduation rate at Sisters High School has been in the
90’s for the last four year—consistently 10% above the state
average.
• Of 197 Oregon school districts, Sisters ranked 13th Best
District in the state by Niche.
Members of the Sisters community are united in our commitment
to provide all students with the education they need to reach their
fullest potential. Together, we will ensure that all students learn
every day and in every class and graduate from Sisters High, col-
lege or career ready, with the skills necessary to be successful.
By supporting the Local Option for the past twenty years, the
citizens of Sisters continue to affirm the value of education to their
community.
(This information furnished by Curtiss Scholl, Sisters School District.)
Ballot Title9-161
RENEW LOCAL OPTION LEVY FOR SCHOOL
OPERATIONS, FIVE-YEAR TERM
QUESTION: Shall the District renew its $.75 per $1,000 of
assessed value for general operations beginning 2023-2024,
for five years? This measure renews current local option taxes.
SUMMARY: In May of 2018 voters approved renewal of the
local option levy at $.75 per $1,000 of assessed value to sup-
port Sisters School District, it expires June 2023. This measure
would renew the levy expiring June 2023 for five years at the
same rate approved by voters in 2000, 2004, 2013 and 2018.
Sisters School District would use the funds from the levy to
maintain current programs and staffing levels provided by the
expiring levy. The current levy provided approximately 10% of
the school district’s annual operating resources over the past
four years. This funding equates to approximately 16 teachers
and support staff or 21 school days.
The owner of a home assessed at $500,000 would pay $31.25
per month or $375.00 per year.
For the following five years taxes are estimated to be:
2023-24 $1,800,000
2024-25 $1,854,000
2025-26 $1,909,000
2026-27 $1,969,909
2027-28 $2,025,915
Measure 9-161 Sisters School District No. 6
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-24 Candidates
(This information furnished by Erin Merz.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Director of Mar-
keting & Communications, Cas-
cades Academy (PK-12)
Occupational Background:
Senior marketing administra-
tor, instructor - Portland State
University; In-house and agency
PR/communications in the public and private sectors, including
education, nonprofit, government
Educational Background: New York Institute of Technology,
M.A. Communications; Grand Valley State University, B.S.
Broadcasting
Prior Governmental Experience: Marketing Committee Member
- City Club of Central Oregon; Eight years volunteer service in
PR profession, including four years of professional society board
service
I’ve spent nearly 20 years as a marketer, communicator and
instructor in education-centered organizations, including eight
recent years in higher ed where I made measurable contri-
butions to recruitment, retention and reputation efforts. I’ve
witnessed first-hand how community colleges jumpstart
opportunity, interrupt generational poverty, fuel skilled
trades and strong workforces, and fill society with critical
thinkers and changemakers.
• I work in K-12 and am in touch with the aspirations of
potential COCC students, and I’ve taught transfers from
community college.
• I understand how educational institutions function, how
decisions are made and how decisions impact constituents.
• As a seasoned marketer and education leader, I know
how to push COCC’s mission forward while attracting and
serving students.
• I bring energy, experience and effectiveness.
I’ll advocate for:
ACCESS & STUDENT SUCCESS
Including policies and processes that reduce barriers to access,
create equal opportunity and ensure responsible budgeting to
keep COCC affordable.
WORKFORCE READINESS
Including program development and refinement that bolsters en-
rollment and prepares students for tomorrow’s workforce today.
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP
Including partnerships in the public and private sectors to
secure students well-paying jobs and employers skilled talent in
sectors like health care and manufacturing.
FACULTY & STAFF WELLBEING
Including a supportive environment that fosters effective instruc-
tion and compensation that matches increased cost of living.
erinmerz.com
Endorsed by:
Bruce Abernethy, Current COCC Board member, former Mayor
of Bend; Jim Clinton, COCC Board and Former Bend Mayor;
Erica Skatvold, COCC Board; Julie Amberg, Head of School,
Cascades Academy; Tyler Running, Social Studies Teacher
Erin Merz
Central Oregon Community College District
Director, Zone 5
(This information furnished by Diane Berry.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Adjunct Instructor,
Purdue University Global; Grant
Writer and Board Member,
REACH; Neighbor hood Coordin-
ator, Bend Food Project
Occupational Background:
Clinical Social Worker; Attorney
Educational Background: University of Wisconsin Milwaukee,
Master of Social Work; University of Wisconsin Madison School of
Law, Juris Doctorate; University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Bachelor
of Science
Prior Governmental Experience: Board Member, Larkspur
Neighborhood Association; Member, Manitowoc County Domestic
Violence Community Response Team; Assistant District Attorney
I am passionate about education and would be honored to
represent Bend on the Central Oregon Community College
Board.
I began my career as an attorney practicing family law before
going back to earn my Master of Social Work. For the past
12 years, I have taught Human Services courses at Purdue
University Global. This experience has enabled me to success-
fully navigate the complex and often intersecting issues in the
fields of law, social work and higher education and uniquely
qualifies me for a position on the community college board of
directors.
As a member of the board, I will support our college lead-
ers to:
1) Increase enrollment and ensure the institution will be able
to continue meeting the needs of our workforce. Colleges
have seen declining enrollment since the last recession,
with community colleges among the hardest hit.
2) Give all students the hand up they need to access the
education they seek. Many of my students were the first
in their families to attend college and I recognize the chal-
lenges they face navigating systems of enrollment and
financial aid.
3) Support our faculty and staff to live in the communities
where they work. I want to help ensure that the high cost
of living in Central Oregon is not a barrier to recruiting and
retaining excellent educators.
I believe my experience in the areas of law, social work and
education will help me continue the strong work of the current
board toward these goals. I humbly ask for your vote.
Endorsed by Deschutes Democrats
Diane Berry
Central Oregon Community College District
Director, Zone 5
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-25 Candidates
(This information furnished by Kevin Knight.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Retired
Occupational Background:
Senior executive with multibillion
dollar companies; Consultant
/ Advisor; Board Member for
Public and Private companies
Educational Background:
University Of Utah MBA; Westminster College BS Business
Administration; Granger High HS diploma
Prior Governmental Experience: Budget Committee City of
Bend; Board Member Parks and Recreation Eagan, MN.; Aviation
advisory Committee Westminster College; Member Board of
Trustees WTTW Public Television Chicago, IL.
With education, dreams become reality and the impossible
becomes possible.
For central Oregonians, its COCC that plays an invaluable role
in providing that education. Whether it’s an associate degree
with a path to a 4-year university, or a unique program that pro-
vides the knowledge, skills and certificates that open the doors
to a wide variety of specialized careers.
I’d like to help. As a Senior executive with a successful career
spanning decades in rapidly changing industries, I have the
experience, knowledge and skills to complement those of the
college leadership and the COCC board. Here are a few I
believe are relevant.
• Strategic Planning
• Financial Management
• Identifying market opportunities and designing responsive
products.
• Working with government agencies and communities.
• Developing partnerships to expand products and lower
cost.
• Managing large and diverse work forces.
• Developing new technologies, innovations, and processes
to improve efficiencies.
Continued success will require an ongoing focus on student
success, excellent instruction, affordability and a strong finan-
cial base, as well as greater flexibility in what is taught, how it
is taught and where it is taught. The ability to quickly identify
and respond to developing trends to meet the unique, diverse
needs of students, the workplace and community will be critical.
Adding my abilities to the board and college staff can help
COCC meet upcoming challenges and ensure a successful
future.
I would be honored to receive your vote for the Central Oregon
Community College Board. Zone 6
Kevin Knight
Central Oregon Community College District
Director, Zone 6
(This information furnished by Jim Porter.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Board President,
Central Oregon Villages; Board
Chair, Starwood Association
Occupational Background:
Chief of Police, City of Bend;
Instructor, Criminal Justice,
COCC; United States Air Force,
Sergeant, Security Forces
Educational Background: B.S., Business Management, Corban
University; A.A., Criminal Justice Studies, COCC; FBI National
Leadership Academy
Prior Governmental Experience: Board Chair for the Central
Oregon Law Enforcement Service Board. Chief of Police, City
of Bend
I am personally indebted to Central Oregon Community
College. I have been a student at, staff instructor for and a past
business partner with COCC. The college provided both me
and my daughters with the ability to attend classes locally on
our way to obtaining our Bachelor Degrees. And the nursing
program at COCC was instrumental in assisting my wife in
securing her Oregon nursing license when she immigrated here
from the Netherlands. In short, COCC made possible my fam-
ily’s service to this community.
As the Chief of Police, I was responsible for a bi-annual budget
of over $38,000,000, fiscally responsible, and mindful of tax
dollars. As the Board Chair for two local nonprofit corporations,
I direct the construction and management of emergency shelter
locations and the operational services of my Neighborhood
Association in Tumalo
I’m the only candidate who has graduated from, served as
a classroom instructor at, assisted in drafting policy for, and
implemented joint partnership agreements with COCC. This
experience is vital because a robust, well guided and supported
community college is key to addressing the shortage of nurses,
child care providers, law enforcement officers, and electric
vehicle technicians our community faces.
We Support Jim Porter for the COCC Board
Bruce Abernethy, current COCC Board member, former Mayor
of Bend
Jim Clinton, COCC Board and Former Bend Mayor
Emmerson Levy, State Representative
Alta J. Brady, Deschutes County Circuit Court Presiding Judge,
Retired
Andrew Jordan, Chief of Police, City of Bend, Retired
John Rexford, Superintendent-Retired, High Desert Education
Service District
Marney Smith, Old Mill District and Hayden Homes
Amphitheater
Jim Porter
Central Oregon Community College District
Director, Zone 6
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-26 Candidates
(This information furnished by David E Price.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Retired military
officer
Occupational Background:
Served on active duty in the
United States Air Force for 32
years, retiring as a brigadier
general; Partner, Robertson-
Price LLC, a Redmond based real estate investment company;
Former member board of directors, Military Officers Association of
America, a national veterans organization; Former member board
of directors, Army and Air Force Exchange Service, an $8 billion
a year retail business; Air Force chair and professor, Industrial
College of the Armed Forces, a master’s level graduate school
Educational Background: Industrial College of the Armed
Forces; Washington, DC; Master of Science; Auburn University;
Montgomery, AL; Master of Science; Willamette University; Salem,
OR; Bachelor of Science; Lakeview Senior High School; Lakeview,
OR; high school diploma
Prior Governmental Experience: Military officer with wide
ranging government leadership and management experience
over a 32 career; Taught government operations and financial
resource management as a college level instructor; Serves on
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s Veterans and War
Memorial Grant Review Committee; Served on Redmond’s Mid-
Town Citizen Advisory Committee, 2014; Served on Oregon State
Capitol Park’s Major Memorial Review Committee, 2020-2021
Here in Central Oregon, Dave served as president of the
Central Oregon chapter of the Military Officer Association of
America for three years, a local organization with approxi-
mately one hundred members from Bend, Redmond, Sunriver,
Prineville, Sisters and elsewhere across central Oregon. In
addition, he is currently on the board of directors for Caring
for Troops, a Bend-based non-profit organization that sends
monthly care packages to deployed service members around
the world.
Today, Dave is a partner in Robertson-Price LLC., As a result of
his business ties to the community, he was asked to serve on
Redmond’s Mid-Town Citizen Advisory Committee. Through a
series of public workshops in 1914 that group helped the city
plan for future downtown development. That experience has
given him a broad perspective when it comes to the use of re-
sources and the challenges of balancing competing community
interests.
David E Price
Central Oregon Community College
Director, Zone 6
(This information furnished by Michael Sipe )
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Small Business
Consultant; Mergers and
Acquisitions Advisor
Occupational Background:
US Army Officer; Serial Entre-
preneur
Educational Background:
Arizona State University, Bachelors in Business Administration;
US Army Ranger School; US Army Engineer Officer School
Prior Governmental Experience: None
I’m a small business owner and community leader. Education
has been part of my family for three generations. My grandfa-
ther was a school principal, my grandmother and mother were
teachers, and I am an executive coach, consultant and trainer.
I have a passion for education, especially career and vocation-
ally-focused education. I am interested in serving on the COCC
board because of COCC’s commitment to its core mission, its
community learning offerings (I have participated as a student)
and its small business offerings (I have taught some courses).
I also support COCC’s engagement as a great community
partner in our region.
In Army Ranger training, I learned to quickly assess situations
and make critical decisions. As a business coach and consul-
tant, I help leaders solve problems in innovative ways. As a
mergers and acquisitions advisor for over 30 years, I’ve learned
how to collaboratively bring people with diverse perspectives
into positive agreement, creating the possibility for forward
progress. I’ll bring business sense, commonsense, consensus-
building and strong budgetary skills to the COCC Board.
I’ve served our region for many years, including:
New Each Morning Board (serving women graduates of recovery
programs)
Central Oregon Community Prayer Breakfast, Founder
Bend Christmas Parade, Chairman
Bend Chamber of Commerce, Former Board Member
Rotary Club of Greater Bend, Past President
2022 Deschutes County Fair, Title Sponsor
2022 Candidate for Oregon HD53 State Representative
Visit: www.avoiceforcentraloregon.com for more information.
I’m asking for your vote, so I can continue to serve Central
Oregon as a COCC board member.
Michael Sipe
Central Oregon Community College District
Director, Zone 6
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-27 Candidates
(This information furnished by Erin Foote Morgan.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Small Business
Owner
Occupational Background:
Community College Admin-
istrator and Instructor; Small
Business Finance Director
Educational Background: University of Missouri—Master’s
Degree; University of Oregon—Bachelor’s Degree; Robert Service
High School—Anchorage, Alaska
Prior Governmental Experience: Oregon community col-
lege curriculum alignment committee; Family Access Network
Foundation Board of Directors; St. Charles Redmond Community
Advisory Committee
ACCESS TO PROSPERITY FOR RURAL OREGONIANS
As a wife and mom of four kids, a former Central Oregon
Community College administrator and instructor, a small busi-
ness owner and a 19-year resident of Central Oregon—I’m
passionate about the life-changing value of higher educa-
tion for my family and my neighbors in Zone 7.
I love my family’s semi-rural lifestyle in Deschutes River
Woods. Our community reminds me of my home state of
Alaska, where independence and self-sufficiency are our great-
est values.
But lack of opportunity, transportation, or even reliable internet
can mean rural Oregonians are often left out of chances to build
prosperity. Community colleges have the power to change this.
I’m running to create new pathways to prosperity for rural
Oregonians through higher education.
From business classes, to trade apprenticeships, to technical
certificates COCC is one of the most powerful ways people
living in Zone 7 can access opportunity—and build a stable
financial future in the process.
COCC is also one of our region’s most important leaders for
economic development and job creation. I want to create
new strategies for strengthening Southern Deschutes and
Northern Klamath economies through collaborations with
COCC.
As a board member of the COCC board of directors I will
prioritize:
• Access to higher education
• Economic development
• Workforce development
• Broadband improvements
I am devoted to ensuring that rural Oregonians living in Zone
7 have clear and easy access to the financial success and
personal fulfillment achieved through higher education,
and that our communities continue to thrive through vibrant
partnerships with COCC.
Thank you for your vote!
Erinforcocc.org
Erin Foote Morgan
Central Oregon Community College District
Director, Zone 7
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-28 Candidates
(This information furnished by Christopher Strengberg.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Director of Opera-
tions at Nationwide Notary
Organization
Occupational Background:
Operational Management,
Government Identity Proofing,
Real Estate, Finance.
Educational Background: BA History California Baptist
University; MA History Liberty University, George Fox University
April 2024 MA Teaching (Social Studies and SPED)
Prior Governmental Experience: None
Having spent much of my life working up the corporate ladder,
education and the value it holds came front and center when I
decided to go back to college. One of my priorities as a father
is to show my daughters that at any point in our lives things can
change if you work hard, great things will come. Since then, I
have dedicated my “extra” time working towards an eventual
education position.
My experience is unique I have viewed education from two
entirely different lenses, one being a father and a prospective
educator and for this I believe I am a qualified candidate. My
extensive education centered around History will help me in un-
derstanding and grappling the complex questions and dilemmas
facing our current education system. Currently we are a society
that lives in the present and plan for the future, but how do we
understand where we are going and what progress looks like?
I have firsthand knowledge how hard it can be to navigate
education with a special needs child, one of my daughters has
an auditory processing disorder and even with an IEP plan we
had to advocate for her progress.
Looking at the issues from diverse viewpoints and seeing
hurdles that our school district is facing is no easy feat. I
believe there are solutions where we can support students, par-
ents, and teachers. I am committed to working toward a better
education for all students and I wish to serve on the board
to represent a new perspective. We must work together to
provide an engaging learning environment for all students with
a focus on academic excellence.
Christopher Strengberg
Administrative School District #1
Director, Zone 3
(This information furnished by Cameron Fischer.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Instructor, College
of Education and College of Pub-
lic Health and Human Sciences,
Oregon State University.
Occupational Background:
Special Education Teacher;
ESL Teacher; Educational and
Behavioral Consultant; Educational Assistant; Employer
Coordinator, Tri-County Childcare Initiative; Senior Operations
Manager, Wilsonville Business Center.
Educational Background: D.Ed. Educational Leadership,
University of Oregon; M.A. Education, Prescott College; B.A.
Sociology, UC Santa Cruz.
Prior Governmental Experience: Deschutes County Behavioral
Health Advisory Board; Bear Creek Elementary School Site
Council; Bend Human Rights and Equity Commission.
EXPERIENCED – KNOWLEDGEABLE – PROACTIVE
Mom of two teenagers who have attended Bend-La Pine
Schools since kindergarten, educator for over 28 years, and ac-
tive community volunteer. I am deeply invested in the academic
success of students.
Through collaboration, commitment, and creative problem
solving, I will prioritize students having equitable access to
safe, nurturing and welcoming schools to maximize learning.
ENGAGEMENT
• Promote increased student, family and educator engagement
to boost scholastic success, attendance, and graduation rates.
• Bolster educators by advocating for smaller classes, increased
behavioral supports, and improving recruitment and retention.
BELONGING
• Foster a greater sense of belonging for students, families,
and educators by advocating for more bullying prevention
and intervention.
• Encourage collaborative and kind school communities to reduce
chronic absenteeism, suspensions, and disciplinary issues.
PARTNERSHIP
• Protect limited educational resources by expanding effective
school-community partnerships.
• Collaborate on shared challenges such as, youth mental
health crisis, lack of affordable housing, homelessness,
workforce shortages, technology issues, school safety, and
learning loss.
Endorsements include:
Oregon Education Association Political Action Committee;
Central Oregon Labor Chapter, AFL-CIO; Stand for Children;
Representative Emerson Levy, District 53; Phil Chang,
Deschutes County Commissioner; Melissa Barnes Dholakia,
Bend-La Pine Schools Board Chair; Marcus LeGrand, Bend-La
Pine Schools Board Vice Chair; Shimiko Montgomery, Bend-La
Pine Schools Board Member; Melanie Kebler, Bend Mayor;
Bruce Abernethy, Former Bend Mayor; Megan Perkins, Bend
City Councilor; Oliver Tatom, COCC Board; Deb Schoen, Bend
Parks & Rec Board Chair; Dr. Kate Broadman, Pediatrician;
Naomi Crummett, Local Teacher
cameronforschools.com
Cameron Fischer
Administrative School District #1
Director, Zone 3
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-29 Candidates
Occupation: Family Nurse
Practitioner
Occupational Background:
Registered Nurse
Educational Background:
Master of Science in Nursing,
Yale University; Bachelor of Arts, University of California, Los
Angeles
Prior Governmental Experience: Bend-La Pine Schools Board
of Directors; Bend-La Pine Schools Budget Committee
I was able to achieve my humble version of the American
dream – a safe home, a loving family, a fulfilling career – be-
cause I had teachers who recognized my potential and helped
me overcome the adverse experiences of my childhood. That’s
why I believe there is no greater engine of liberty than our
public schools. And it’s why, as a nurse, a mom, and a member
of your school board, I will fight for:
Freedom to teach. Our education professionals are over-
worked and undervalued, and too often burdened by work well
beyond their scope and training. I’ll advocate for the necessary
funding for support services like counselors, nurses, and school
resource officers so our teachers can focus on doing what they
do best: Teaching.
Freedom to play. We can hold our students to high standards
of academic excellence without driving them to depression,
anxiety, disruptive behavior, and self-harm. A growing body of
scientific research highlights the importance of play – whether
that’s our youngest kiddos running around the playground, or
our older students competing on the field or performing on the
stage. I’ll be an advocate for academics, athletics, and the arts.
Freedom to learn. No child can learn if they’re hungry, or if they
don’t feel physically and emotionally safe. At the same time,
learning requires a willingness to be challenged and take risks.
Under my leadership, our school district will continue protecting
our kids from harm while giving them educational choice. There
will be no banning books in Bend-La Pine Schools.
With your vote, I will continue to stand up for safe schools and
do everything in my power to protect the freedom to learn, play,
and teach in our schools.
www.amytatom.com
Occupation: Retired from
Children’s Behavioral Health
Field
Occupational Background:
Traditional Health Worker Li-
ai son; Youth & Family Peer
Supervisor; Provider/Foster Care; Foster Parent; Mother; Enrolled
Agent & Bookkeeper; Darkness 2 Light/Stewards of Children -
Facilitator; Handle with Care - Certified Instructor
Educational Background: Rancho Santiago Community College
- High School Diploma 1984; MHACBO - Qualified Mental Health
Associate; OHA - Certified Traditional Health Worker
Prior Governmental Experience: Children’s System Advisory
Committee - State; Suicide Steering Committee - State; Traditional
Health Worker Commission - State
READING, WRITING, ARITHMATIC
Back to the Basics!!
As a resident of Deschutes County for over 30 years, it is ap-
parent that the educational system is failing our children, fami-
lies, and community. Why? How did this happen? We know the
decline began before COVID. Where do we find the answers?
Many answers will be found in policies. Policies which may
have been written with good intent, yet have not played out well
in reality.
I am running for Bend/LaPine School Board as I would like to
see all youth reach their fullest academic potential, including
my future grandchildren. I have volunteered throughout the
years with Boy Scouts, 4H and homeless outreach. I have been
an advocate for youth and families over the past 20 years in
professional roles. During this time, collaboration with entities
such as education, child welfare, juvenile, law enforcement,
behavioral health and community partners was a skill learned
and honed.
The skill of reading contracts, Oregon Revised Statutes,
Oregon Administrative Rules, and grants was gained. And then
came policy writing....
School board members are accountable to those who elect
them. Parents should have a say in their child’s education.
Parental rights must not be lost in the world of governmental
bureaucracy, policies and procedures. Our youth should be
able to exit high school with basic foundational skills. It is with
this mindset, I will work for our youth, families and community.
Sherrie Grieef
Proud Military Mom
(This information furnished by Amy Tatom.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
(This information furnished by Sherrie Grieef.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Amy TatomSherrie Grieef
Administrative School District #1
Director, Zone 5
Administrative School District #1
Director, Zone 5
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-30 Candidates
(This information furnished by Chester James Wamboldt.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Safety Consultant
and project Manager, Father
Occupational Background:
Firefighter, FEMA Search
and Rescue. Organizational
Developer
Educational Background:
Azusa Pacific University; Organizational Development
Prior Governmental Experience: Chief’s Assistant Sierra Madre
Fire Dept; Strike Team Leader FEMA
It’s time for a change in Bend Lapine Schools. Over the last few
years we have watched our kids lives being effected by rules
that do little to help and much in the way of harm. The Teachers
and Unions are well represented on the Bend-Lapine School
Board, I aim to represent the Parents and the well being of our
children.
Chester James Wamboldt
Administrative School District #1
Director, Zone 6
(This information furnished by Melissa Barnes Dholakia.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Managing Dir-
ector, Barnes Dholakia Partners,
Inc. – Support small districts in
strategic planning, program
design, budgeting, and ac-
countability.
Occupational Background:
Public School Teacher, Principal, and Co-Director (Co-
Superintendent). Built a highly successful public school district
serving marginalized youth, closing the achievement gap.
Educational Background: New Leaders for New Schools,
Fellowship and Administrative Credential Program; University of
Oregon, MA and Fellowship in College of Education; Whitman
College, BA and Teaching Credential.
Prior Governmental Experience: Bend-La Pine Schools Board
of Directors (Chair 2021-present, Vice Chair 2020-21); School Site
Council, High Lakes Elementary; Board of Directors, Cascade
School of Music; Board of Directors, Lighthouse Community
Public Schools.
Appreciation
A high-quality school system is the single greatest responsibility
our community holds for our youth. Thank you for entrusting me
as a steward of our district. It is a true privilege to serve.
Commitment
I came to this work – as an educator and parent – with a desire
to ensure all students reach high levels of academic achieve-
ment, have choice-filled futures, and experience equity and be-
longing in our schools. Toward this end, I have led collaborative
work to establish new goals, strategic initiatives, and measures
to guide Bend-La Pine Schools as follows:
1. Students are engaged and develop a strong academic
foundation
2. Students have a passion, purpose, and plan for their
future
3. Students, families, and staff experience wellness, inclu-
sion, and belonging
4. Operational systems align and support an academically
effective, inclusive, and sustainable organization.
My commitment to you is to continue to advance this work in
service of our students, families, staff, and community. I am all in.
Supporters
Oregon Education Association Political Action Committee
Central Oregon Labor Chapter, AFL-CIO
Stand for Children
Mayor Melanie Kebler, City of Bend
Representative Emerson Levy, Oregon House District 53
Representative Jason Kropf, Oregon House District 54
Phil Chang, Deschutes County Commissioner
Debra Schoen, Board Chair, Bend Parks and Recreation District
Please see www.melissaforbendlapine.org for a complete list of
endorsements.
Melissa Barnes Dholakia
Administrative School District #1
Director, Zone 6
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-31 Candidates
(This information furnished by Kina Chadwick.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Associate Director,
Employee Engagement and
Experience
Occupational Background:
Organizational Development,
Employee Survey Research;
Culture Auditor for Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For® List
Educational Background: Mount Holyoke College, B.A.
Anthropology/Sociology
Prior Governmental Experience: Bend-La Pine Schools Board
of Directors (December 2022-Present); Core Area Advisory Board
(November 2021-Present)
Safe & Inclusive Schools for All Students to Thrive
That means we need to keep extremist politics
and culture wars out of the classroom.
Kina’s priorities are:
Student and Educator Mental and Physical Well-being
Residual consequences of the Pandemic have students dis-
playing greater dysregulation, which is creating higher rates of
disrupted learning. Students need more counselors in schools
to help them regulate and allow teachers to teach.
Greater Diversity
The demographics of our educators and staff do not repre-
sent the diversity of our students. When students of color and
students who are LGBTQIA2S+ have adults in their lives who
share similar identities, students are more successful because
they see these adults as competent and thriving role models,
and all students gain empathy.
Increase Opportunities for Parents/caregivers, Students,
Educators, and the School Board to Connect
The safety, health and academic achievement of students is the
responsibility of the entire community. Kina will facilitate more
ways for constituents to share what’s going well in schools and
offer space where people can also focus on solutions to school
challenges.
Peer-to-peer Mentorship Within and Across Schools
Kina has worked with students from different schools at the
Youth Equity Leadership Summit, monthly Alliance meetings,
and the Restorative Justice & Equity Town Hall Symposium.
The message is loud and clear! Students want more opportuni-
ties to build relationships with peers who share similar identities
and interests, which leads to greater community collaboration
and involvement.
Endorsements Include:
Oregon Education Association Political Action Committee
Planned Parenthood PAC of Oregon
Stand for Children
Democratic Party of Oregon Stonewall (LGBTQ+) Caucus
www.KinaforOregon.com
Kina Chadwick
Administrative School District #1
Director, Zone 7
(This information furnished by Nicole Fitch.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Mom, Classroom
Volunteer, Real Estate Broker
Occupational Background:
Instructional Specialist,
Elementary Grades (2014-2016;
2017-2019); Assistant Principal
(2016-2017); Elementary
School Teacher (2004-2014)
Educational Background: Masters in Education, Education
Leadership, Concordia University (2013); Bachelor of Arts (Liberal
Studies), Chapman University (2002)
Prior Governmental Experience: None
I am an Educator
My career has been dedicated to educating students in Public
Schools. I’m honored to have been an elementary school
teacher, an elementary assistant principal, and an instructional
specialist, helping to evaluate a statewide English Language
Arts curriculum.
From the classroom to the assistant principal’s office, I have
done the hard work it takes to give kids the tools they need to
succeed in a safe, welcoming and supportive environment.
I believe to my core that education works best when educators
have high expectations for their students, and for themselves.
I am a Mom
My husband and I have two daughters attending Bend-La
Pine schools. I volunteer in their classrooms because I believe
schools work best when parents are active partners in their
kids’ education. My daughters’ and I are actively involved in
National Charity League, a Mother/Daughter Philanthropy
within our community. There is nothing more important to me
than the safety, learning and growth of our daughters.
I am running for Bend-La Pine school board to help our schools
do a better job for all students, current and future.
Demand Relentless Improvement of our Schools
To achieve excellence, Bend-La Pine schools must partner
with parents and other student-focused organizations in the
community. It must hold itself, and its students, to the highest
standards. It must be open with our community about its suc-
cesses and its failures.
Everyone agrees that students must be Bend-La Pine schools’
top priority. Putting students first requires an open dialogue
with the community that encourages relentless, transparent
improvement of our schools.
Vote Nicole Fitch for Bend-La Pine School Board Zone 7
Nicoleforblpschools.com
nicoleforblpschools@gmail.com
Nicole Fitch
Administrative School District #1
Director, Zone 7
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-32 Candidates
(This information furnished by Rod Hanson.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Retired; Part-time
Central Oregon Community
College Community Education
Instructor
Occupational Background:
Social Studies Teacher Red-
mond High School 32 years
(1978-2009); Political Science Instructor Central Oregon
Community College 12 years (2011-2022); Social Science
Teacher Highland High School Bakersfield California 3 years
(1975-1978); Sports Writer and Sports Columnist Bend Bulletin
3 years (1980-1983); Event Disc Jockey 32 years (1978-2011)
Educational Background: Fresno State University: Bachelor
of Arts: History major Mathematics minor 1974; Westmont
College: Standard Teaching Credential 1975; American
Military University : Master of Arts: Political Science (American
Constitution major) 2011
Prior Governmental Experience: Precinct board member 1988
I have taught in the public schools for 47 years. I have taught In
Central Oregon public schools for 44 years. I was Oregon Law
Related Education Teacher of the Year in 1988. I was inducted
into the Redmond High School Teacher Hall of Fame in 2010.
My wife and I have lived in Bend since 1978. Our three sons
attended and graduated from Bend public schools. Two of my
grandchildren are currently enrolled in the Bend public schools.
I believe it would be helpful and advantageous to the students
of the Bend-Lapine school district to have an experienced
teacher working for them on their board. I know what works in
public education. I know how to encourage students to be suc-
cessful in their academic endeavors.
I support:
Quality education for all students.
Equal opportunity education for all students.
Rigorous standards of education for all students.
Diversity of learning opportunities for all students.
Strong support for the professional staff of the school district.
Strong support for input from parents for the education of their
children.
Recruiting and maintaining the best teachers in the nation.
Fiscal wisdom in determining the best use of taxpayers dollars.
Rod Hanson
Administrative School District #1
Director, Zone 7
(This information furnished by Elizabeth Justema.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Project Manage-
ment, Brightwater Senior Living
Occupational Background:
Teacher, Bend-La Pine Schools,
9 years; Marketing (Microsoft,
Accent Optical Technologies, J
Walter Thompson), 18 years
Educational Background: OSU Cascades, Masters of Teaching,
Distinguished Student of 2014; University of Washington, Magna
Cum Laude
Prior Governmental Experience: None
Qualifications:
• I am a 23-year resident of Bend
• I taught 2,000+ Bend-La Pine students over a 9 year
teaching career
• I raised two children, both Bend-La Pine students, K-12
• Prior to teaching, I spent 18 years working in the private
sector
• I’ve been a board member and tutor for The Office
Group, working with disadvantaged students from BLP
high schools for the last 5 years
A Unique Voice:
• I was a BLP teacher before, during and after COVID. I
fully understand the impact on our children and families
and our struggles to steer out of it.
• I have experienced Board and District initiatives in the
classroom and want to be the bridge that advocates for
policies that work, and the voice of reason for those that
don’t.
• I am an unaffiliated voter and am not seeking endorse-
ments from special interest groups. I am an indepen-
dent thinker who acts in accordance with what’s best for
students.
• Highly qualified teachers are leaving the profession
in droves and this affects the quality of your students’
education. I understand some of these driving forces
and want to help fix them.
Core Beliefs:
I care deeply about education and see it as our community’s
foundation. Post-teaching, I’m ready to work at the policy level
and lend my voice to those making critical decisions for our dis-
trict. Improving schools begins with understanding that learning
should be challenging for students and is an individual stu-
dent’s journey. Expectations for students’ academic progress
and behavior must be raised. Accountability at all levels is es-
sential and student learning should be authentically supported.
All Board and District policies should promote resilience,
creativity, empathy, inclusion, and academic achievement.
elizabethjustemaforzone7.com
Elizabeth Justema
Administrative School District #1
Director, Zone 7
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-33 Candidates
Redmond School District 2J
Director, Position 1
(This information furnished by Eric Lea.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Director of Clinical
Operations at Everest Clinical
Research
Occupational Background:
Drug Development Professional
(>25 Years)
Educational Background: University of Oregon; B.S. Physics
and Chemistry
Prior Governmental Experience: Director/Chair; Board of
Southwest Charter School (2004-2011); Redmond School Board
Position #1 Incumbent
I believe our children deserve meaningful investment. Every
child in our community deserves access to a quality education
that will prepare them for success in the 21st century.
By focusing on reading, writing, arithmetic, basic sciences,
and history, without bias or agenda, we can right the ship. We
should equip our children to be informed and engaged in the
social commentary, without that commentary driving the con-
tent of our curriculum.
We must promote in our students the skill of critical thinking,
and a desire for competency in the basics of education.
To achieve this mission, I will:
• Refocus efforts on the basics of education, building a solid
foundation on reading, writing, mathematics, and science.
• Engage students in ownership of their own educational jour-
ney and success.
• Encourage diversity of thought in seeking solutions to the
problems distracting us from success.
• Remove barriers that prevent any student from accessing
the tools necessary to participate in their own education.
• Ensure equal access to the resources and support every
student needs to succeed.
• Promote an environment of productive discourse (lively,
polite debate).
• Thoughtfully consider community dialog, seeking to listen
and learn.
• Seek to reduce screen-time; instead promoting authentic,
interpersonal interactions with peers and families. There is
no substitute for real life in learning appropriate behavior.
• Encourage our community to model the behavior we wish to
see in our children. If we allow the media they consume to
be the model, we have failed.
• Help our community’s children recover from years’ worth of
progress stolen by the pandemic and pandemic-related poli-
cies.
By working together, we can ensure that every child in our
district has access to high-quality education that affords them
the best opportunity for success.
Eric Lea
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-34 Candidates
Redmond School District 2J
Director, Position 3
(This information furnished by Amanda Page.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Flight Paramedic
and Diversity, Equity, and Inclus-
ion Advisor, Life Flight Network
Occupational Background:
Critical Care Instructor –
Distance CME; Curriculum
Development – The Klamath
Tribes Senate Bill 13 Committee
Educational Background: Umpqua Community College,
Emergency Medical Services; Western Governor’s University,
Bachelor of Science, Business Management
Prior Governmental Experience: Education Committee, The
Klamath Tribes; Program Development, The Klamath Tribes
I am from Chiloquin, a rural community between Bend and
Klamath Falls, where generational poverty is the norm. I had
great teachers who worked hard, but the schools lacked
resources. In college, I struggled until I discovered paramedic
school. Which led to a career that I love providing critical care
air transport across the Pacific Northwest. I have lived and
been engaged in the Redmond community since 2016.
As the mother of teenage daughter, I believe she – and every
Redmond child – should have access to the resources they
need to find a career they will thrive in. That’s why, as a
Redmond school board director, I will fight for:
Multiple Success Pathways.
Every student is unique, and our education system should
honor that. Basic life skills, career and technical education, and
college preparedness are all great goals for students, and our
district must provide strong support for all of these.
School Safety.
A cornerstone of paramedic curriculum is that safety comes
first. That’s also true for our kids and teachers. No one can
learn if they don’t feel safe. Physical, emotional, and mental
safety are crucial.
Resources for Every Child.
When we provide resources for every child to succeed, our
community thrives. That means we need to recognize differ-
ences in kids – some learn better from books, others from
hands-on skills. My goal is that every child has what they need
to be successful.
Strong Support for Teachers.
Coming from a family of public educators, I believe we need to
recruit and maintain quality teachers. But we also need to cre-
ate an environment where great teachers can thrive.
www.amanda4redmond.com
Amanda Page
(This information furnished by Wendell Otto.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Adjunct Professor
in Sport and Performance Psy-
chology, University of Wes tern
States; Consultant Otto Coach-
ing Group
Occupational Background:
Assistant Professor; University
of Western States; School Counselor; Sherwood High School;
Elementary Physical Education Teacher; Portland Public Schools;
Special Education Teacher; Northwest Regional ESD and
Sherwood School District; Head Cross Country Coach/Track and
Field Coach; Sherwood
Educational Background: University Western States; Ed.D;
University of West Alabama; M.Ed; Grand Canyon University;
M.A.T.; George Fox College; B.S.
Prior Governmental Experience: None
WHY I AM RUNNING
I am seeking a position on the Redmond Board of Education
because I believe every child deserves a clear path toward a
thriving future upon graduating high school. My experience
of over 30 years in teaching and coaching within the public
school system in Oregon has fueled my passion for providing
all students with the best possible education. As a member
of the board, I aim to help the Redmond School District fulfill
its mission statement of ensuring success for every student.
My primary mission is to ensure parents have a voice in the
decision-making process and that their concerns are ad-
dressed promptly and effectively, thus empowering them as
key decision-makers in their children’s education. To prioritize
students’ needs and safeguard parents’ rights, I will promote a
21st Century back-to-basics approach to education.
Priorities
Expect Excellence in Education - Increase reading and math
proficiency from elementary through high school from the bot-
tom 50% in Oregon.
21st Century Skills - Ready graduates from high school
Support and Retain Teachers - Respect teachers as profes-
sional educators
Increase Transparency - Allow parents to be a more signifi-
cant part of the team and have a stronger voice in their child’s
education.
Ensure School Safety - For effective learning, parents, teach-
ers, and students feel that schools are safe places to be.
Wendell Otto
Redmond School District 2J
Director, Position 3
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-35 Candidates
(This information furnished by Keri Lopez.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Operations,
Rogue Builders, LLC
Occupational Background:
Operations Manager, Wells
Fargo Advisors (Series 7/66
Registered Sales Associate)
Educational Background:
OSU Cascades- Bachelor of Science, General Agriculture; OSU-
Certificate of Applied Ethics
Prior Governmental Experience: Redmond School District
Board of Directors- Position 4 (Incumbent); Policy Committee
OSBA Legislative Policy Committee Liaison; Facilities Committee
OSBA Rural School Boards Advisory Committee, Appeals Sub
Committee; Curriculum Committee
I, Keri Lopez, am running for re-election to the Redmond School
District Board of Directors so that I can continue to advocate at
the federal, state, and local levels for our community. I will bring
continued focus and dedication to policy revision and curriculum
review. As a parent of two school aged children, I have a vested
interest in the present and future policies and curriculum the
RSD Board adopts. Policies and curriculum directly impact our
children, their families, and our community. I care deeply about
the community of Redmond, the students, and constituents I
serve and would be honored to represent you again.
Vote on May 16, 2023 to re-elect Keri Lopez, Redmond
School District Board Position #4.
Endorsements
Bev Clarno former Oregon Secretary of State
Representative Vikki Breese-Iverson
Shawn Hartfield Past Chairperson of the Redmond School
District 2J Board of Directors
Michael Summers Redmond School Board Chair
Robert Perry Chair of Redmond Patriots
Mercedes Cook - Bostick Redmond Area Park & Recreation
District Director 2
Michael Sipe
Patti Adair
Jay Patrick
“Keri Lopez has been a tireless advocate for parents.
Focusing on parental rights, community engagement and
transparency in public meetings have and will be a cor-
nerstone of her school board career. Please vote for Keri
Lopez for Redmond School Board.”
-Representative Vikki Breese Iverson
“Keri Lopez is the most detailed and diligent Board
Member I have worked with. She will continue to fight for
the protection of children and parents rights.”
-Shawn Hartfield, Past Chairperson of the Redmond
School District 2J Board of Directors
www.kerilopez4redmondschoolboard.com
Keri Lopez
Redmond School District 2J
Director, Position 4
(This information furnished by Brad Porterfield.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Executive Director,
Latino Community Association
Occupational Background:
English Immersion Teacher,
Strisuksa School, Roi Et,
Thailand; Coordinating Director,
Alliance of Forest Workers &
Harvesters, Eugene; Coordinator, HUES Strategic Planning
Group, Hermiston; Natural Resource Manager/Educator, Peace
Corps, Uruguay
Educational Background: Masters, Community & Regional
Planning, University of Oregon; Bachelor of Science, Natural
Resource Planning, Humboldt State University
Prior Governmental Experience: City of Redmond Parks
Committee, member; Central Oregon Health Council (COHC),
Board Director; Community Advisory Council to COHC, Chair;
East Cascades Works (workforce board), Board Director
I am the father of an eighteen-year-old senior at Ridgeview and
I care deeply about our youth. Our schools play a critical role
in the lives of our kids and families, and I want to do my part to
make sure Redmond schools are as strong and impactful as
possible. I want to ensure our youth have a good experience,
gain knowledge, and learn essential tools to give them a good
start in life.
I have seen what is good and not so good in our schools since
my son began kindergarten at Lynch. I believe our schools
need to modernize to match the times we live in. Our teach-
ers and coaches need our support; and to be held account-
able. Our kids need to be encouraged and know we believe in
their abilities to make a positive difference in the world. They
deserve our support with personal and family challenges that
impact their learning and health. And they deserve adults in
their lives who see them for who they are and who they are
becoming.
I am non-partisan and believe honesty, integrity and col-
laboration are the keys to success. I will utilize my conflict
management skills to facilitate robust public participation and
respectful, productive dialogue with parents, students, teachers
and board members to move our schools forward. I am excited
to serve our youth and families as a school board member, and
I would appreciate your vote.
Brad Porterfield
Redmond School District 2J
Director, Position 4
NO PHOTO
SUBMITTED
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-36 Candidates
(This information furnished by John Campbell.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Independent con-
tractor
Occupational Background:
High School Teacher/FFA
Advisor; Middle School Teacher/
FFA Advisor; ATV sales and
repair Owner/operator; Middle School Science teacher; Farm
Manager
Educational Background: George Fox University - Masters
in Education; Oregon State University - Bachelors of Science;
Central Oregon Community College - Associates; Madras High
School - Graduate
Prior Governmental Experience: None
A parent of 2 elementary aged children, vested community
member, and 12+ years as a public school teacher
A strong background in business, agriculture, and career
technical education will serve in negotiating policies and
maintaining fiscal responsibilities that represent the very best
educational opportunities.
I bring common sense measures and strong analytical abilities
to simplify problems with solutions. Top items of importance
- Parental Rights in Education, Transparency in Education,
Insuring a Safe and Healthy Learning Environment, Fiscal
Responsibility, Serve All Children Regardless of Backgrounds.
Teaching our children to think for themselves while respecting
our laws, individual circumstances, values and liberties. Our
success lies in prioritizing what is most important to impact and
empower our children for a future that results in a productive
manner in society.
John Campbell
Redmond School District 2J
Director, Position 5
Redmond School District 2J
Director, Position 5
(This information furnished by Liz Goodrich.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Programs Super-
visor, Deschutes Public Library
Occupational Background:
Volunteer Coordinator, Hospice
of Redmond; Education
Coordinator, Cheyenne Frontier
Days™ Old West Museum;
Teacher, Mt. View High School
Educational Background: Teaching Credential and Bachelor of
Arts, California State University, Chico; Bend High School
Prior Governmental Experience: Redmond School District
Board of Directors, Redmond Downtown Urban Renewal Advisory
Committee, City of Redmond Parking Task Force
RE-ELECT
It has been an honor to serve our community as part of the
Redmond School District Board of Directors. I am seeking a
second term to continue the work of improving outcomes for
every student, creating safe and welcoming schools and advo-
cating for intellectual and academic freedom.
LOCAL CHAMPION OF EDUCATION
My husband, Pete, a military veteran, and I have lived in
Redmond since 1999. We have raised our family here and
both our sons graduated from Redmond schools. A champion
of public education, I believe that every Redmond student
deserves access to a high-quality education that prepares them
for life beyond the classroom.
DISTRICT ACCOMPLISHMENTS
I am proud of the accomplishments made during my term,
including:
• Passed a bond in 2020 to improve building safety, health
and capacity.
• Expanded CTE programs.
• Successful superintendent search.
• Increased high school graduation rates.
• Completed contract negotiations with both classified and
certified associations.
• Increased behavioral support for students in all district
schools.
• Prudent use of state and federal pandemic relief funds.
• Funded improvements at Jaqua Sports Complex.
There are challenges ahead for public education, including
stable and adequate funding, the increasing number of high
needs students and staffing shortages. I am committed to
addressing those challenges with solutions that start with the
question of how outcomes for every student will be improved.
That question will be my guiding principle for every vote I cast.
Thank you for your consideration and your vote. I look forward
to serving a second term on the Redmond School Board.
More information: liz4redmond.com
Liz Goodrich
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-37 Candidates
Sisters School District 6
Director, Position 3
(This information furnished by Karissa Bilderback.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Stay at Home
Mom
Occupational Background:
Teacher, NCSD (2005-2011);
Substitute Teacher, HDESD
and SPRD (2013-2019); SPTC
board (2016-present); PAC
member SSD local option
Educational Background: University of Portland, Master’s
Degree, Teaching; Oregon State, BS in Human Development
Family Sciences; Sisters High School, class of 2000
Prior Governmental Experience: None
As a former Sisters High graduate and mother of four children
under the age of 12, I have a vested interest in the long-term
success of our schools. The quality of education our district
provides is a large part of what brought me back to Sisters. My
background as an educator, substitute, volunteer and parent
enables me to see things from multiple angles and display
empathy for every child’s diverse learning needs.
Some topics of importance for me:
• Providing innovative career pathways for our future
graduates
• Increased transparency and bridging the communication
gap between parents and school district
• Setting high expectations and accountability for student
behaviors and school safety
• Supporting the well-rounded student
• Teaching students how to think, not what to think
We have the most innovative, capable, and caring staff within
our district, and they need our support and the proper tools to
best serve our children at their maximum capacity. The goal
shouldn’t stop at competency, but working toward achiev-
ing excellence for all students who walk through the doors of
Sisters schools.
I believe that the best decisions are made when a diverse
set of voices are heard. These voices should be included
constructively and within the goals of reaching a place of
understanding and finding solutions. I hope to work with other
members of the board to approach each issue with evidence,
an eye on best practices, and a commitment to seeking the
best results for our children.
Great schools benefit everyone. I will advocate for our stu-
dents, parents, and greater community. Why? Because I am all
of you. I would be honored to have your vote.
Karissa Bilderback
Sisters School District 6
Director, Position 3
(This information furnished by Jeff Smith.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Incumbent, Sisters
School Board; Professor of
Public Administration (emeritus)
Occupational Background:
Volunteer leadership in youth
organizations (15 years)
Educational Background: PhD, University of Oregon; MBA,
Oregon State University; BS, Oregon State University; Diploma,
Roseburg High School
Prior Governmental Experience: Sisters School Board (1999-
2011 and 2014-present); Budget Committee, Sisters School
District (1998-present)
Our schools are in good shape
-- Graduation rates and test scores are amongst the best
in Oregon
--Our financial condition is solid
--Our administrators, teachers and other staff are top rate
-- We are blessed to have community support for new
school buildings
--I have been a steady contributor to these outcomes
Jeff Smith is a caring and committed educator:
--a teacher for nearly 40 years
-- volunteer coach at Sisters High School and Sisters
Middle School for 20 years
-- taught college courses in public policy and public finance
for 29 years
-- completed Oregon School Boards Association’s leader-
ship program
I am committed to public service on behalf of children.
When my children were younger I led a variety of youth orga-
nizations (soccer, wrestling and Little League teams; YMCA
parent-child organizations; and high school booster organiza-
tions). Now that my children are grown, I have redirected my
efforts toward a broader policy-making role.
Jeff Smith is experienced in school leadership and governance:
-- Chair of a university Department of Public Administration
(6 years)
-- served on state-wide committees on school finance, leg-
islative policies, and governance for the Oregon School
Boards Association
The Sisters School Board provides a good fit with my
background. Since my graduation from OSU, I have been con-
tinually involved in education. My professional responsibilities
as a Professor of Public Administration focused on teaching
public finance and public policy analysis.
Jeff Smith provides independent judgement on school policy
questions:
I have worked hard on the Sisters School Board to find
compromises that improve the education of our children. The
well-being of our children is my number one priority.
Jeff Smith
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-38 Candidates
(This information furnished by Asa Sarver.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Owner, ACE
Beverage Consulting; Sisters
School Board, Position 4
Occupational Background:
International Sales Manager,
Ken Wright Cellars; Hospitality
Director, Yellowstone Club
Educational Background: Colorado State University, BS
Restaurant & Hospitality Management
Prior Governmental Experience: Sisters School Board
(2022-Present); Chairperson, Local Option Committee (2023);
City of Sisters Parks Board (2020-Present)
As a School Board Member and the parent of a child in the
Sisters School District and another starting Kindergarten in
the fall, I understand the day-to-day challenges our educators,
parents and students face. My focus areas are:
Classroom Size. Sisters schools are well known for their
low student-to-teacher ratio, which means students get more
one-on-one attention and support. As school enrollment grows,
we’ll face challenges in maintaining this ratio. I’m committed to
working for low classroom sizes to provide better education for
all of our students.
Teacher Retention. Public school teachers are one of the most
undervalued resources we have. As a School Board Member,
I’ll keep working to find ways to support the amazing teachers
we have here in Sisters so they stay in our district.
Graduation Rates. Sisters has a graduation rate much higher
than the majority of the state of Oregon. It’s imperative we
continue to support teachers and students to sustain this
achievement.
Special Programs. Sisters Schools are truly special in offer-
ing unique programs ranging from aviation training, individual
environmental exploration, to ski teams. It’s critical we maintain
these programs and look for ways to bring languages and other
special programs back into our curriculum.
I am currently serving the Sisters community in these ways:
• Sisters School Board, Position 4, 2022-Present
• Chair of Sisters Local Option Committee, 2023
• City of Sisters Parks Board, 2021-Present
• Volunteer coach for soccer and Little League,
2020-Present
• Sisters Parent Teacher Coalition 2021-2022
It would be an honor to continue serving you on the Sisters
School Board Member in Position 4. Thank you for your vote.
See endorsements at: www.asaforsisters.com
Asa Sarver
Sisters School District 6
Director, Position 4
(This information furnished by Hilary (Hedemark) Saunders.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Co-Founder, Chief
Broker Officer @ Side & Mom
Occupational Background:
Estate Planning, Probate and
Real Estate Attorney; Realtor
Educational Background:
Sisters High School ‘00;
University of San Diego (B.A. Communication) ‘03; Golden Gate
University School of Law (Juris Doctorate) ‘07; Golden Gate
University School of Law (LL.M Taxation) ‘09
Prior Governmental Experience: NA
I was raised in Sisters (fka Hedemark) beginning in first grade
and attended all 3 schools, graduating in 2000. During my ten-
ure in the Sisters Schools, I participated heavily in Leadership
as well as Athletics. Having a diverse and challenging curricu-
lum has always been important to me as it pushed me to strive
for excellence in my academic career.
It is not ok to stay stagnant. We need Board members who will
go to bat and take action and create initiatives that push the
needle forward. We need Board members who challenge the
status quo in order to create active dialogue and foster creative
collaboration.
Sisters students deserve to experience the best education in
the state. That includes having access to the same opportuni-
ties as their peers to broaden their horizons and expand their
dreams of their future. Technology is a key factor in setting our
kids up for success.
Why I am asking for your vote and support:
We have a very unique space for our children and ultimately
our community. That has been fostered by others before me
who have also experienced the school system, and wanted to
give back and continue that high bar of excellence. Our schools
provide not only top-tier education, but also inclusion, support
athletics, the arts, science and technology and we need more
of it!
I have the drive, determination and reasons to make this a real-
ity. Lets all put the schools first and everyone in the community,
even if you don’t have school-aged kids, will benefit.
Hilary (Hedemark) Saunders
Sisters School District 6
Director, Position 4
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-39 Candidates
(This information furnished by Jayne Simmons.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: RETIRED
Occupational Background:
TEACHER - ENGLISH AND
SOCIAL STUDIES (NTE);
INVESTMENT BANKER AND
STOCK BROKER; ORIGINAL
SUCCESSFUL OWNER OF
SCHOOLHOUSE PRODUCE, REDMOND, OR
Educational Background: CAL POLY HUMBOLDT; TEACHING
CREDENTIAL AND BACHELOR OF ARTS, ENGLISH AND
SOCAIL STUDIES; COLLEGE OF THE REDWOODS;
ASSOCIATE OF ARTS DEGREE, GENERAL; GRAND RAPIDS
HIGH SCHOOL, G.R., MN; H.S. DIPLOMA, GENERAL
Prior Governmental Experience: SPRD BOARD OF
DIRECTORS, 2016-2018
Sisters has been our family’s home for 27 years. My sons
and now my grandchildren attend Sisters Public Schools. I
am proud of the education they have received and want to be
a part of that excellence. Opening the doors to parents once
again is important, and I will do my best to see that all are
welcome here.
Jayne Simmons
Sisters School District 6
Director, Position 4
(This information furnished by Mark C Laucks.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Electrician; self
employed; General Handyman;
Alfalfa Fire & Rescue; Driver
Operator
Occupational Background:
I have 40 years of experience
as an Electrical Contractor, and
have owned Laucks Electric serving Puget Sound communities
and businesses.
Educational Background: Edmonds College, Washington State,
electronics certificate; Washington State Electrical Apprenticeship
Program, Construction Electrician, Graduate; Generac Power
Systems, Wisconsin, Diesel Generator Start-up Technician
certificate
Prior Governmental Experience: None
I have been serving on the Board of Directors for the Alfalfa
Fire District as an appointee since March of 2021, and am now
seeking election for the upcoming term.
I’ve volunteered my time and abilities as an electrician at
Station 901 since 2019, contributing to important operational
needs and helping to upgrade the facility. I am continuing
my service by training as a Driver Operator and certifying for
Wildland Firefighting for the upcoming fire season.
My mission as a board member is to help bring balance and
responsible accountability to our fire district, so that we can
continue to grow and serve the citizens of Alfalfa.
My wife and I are invested in our community and want to see all
of our neighbors served by a highly dedicated and professional
fire department.
As a Navy veteran, I also understand the value and strength in
teamwork. Being a board member and volunteer in the Alfalfa
Fire Department allows me to contribute to my community in a
meaningful way.
Mark C Laucks
Alfalfa Fire District
Director, Position 4
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-40 Candidates
(This information furnished by Jerry Johnson.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Retired Bend Fire
Department
Occupational Background:
Prior Military Service–US Air
Force1965-1970 Active 1970-
1972 Reserve; Served 28 years
City of Bend Fire and Rescue
Department; Served 2 years Volunteer; Retired Jan. 1 2002
Captain
Educational Background: Cohn High School Nashville
Tennessee Graduate; Central Oregon Community College Bend
Oregon – 2 years General Studies Science; 2-years –Associates
of Science Degree; National Fire Academy; Emmetsburg,
Maryland 160hrs.-Fire and Hazmat courses.
Prior Governmental Experience: Served 1 year of appointed
term Boardman, Oregon Morrow County- Planning Commission;
Served 2.5 years of 4 year elected term Board of Directors for the
Boardman Rural Fire Department Boardman, Oregon; Left both
elected positions in Sept.,2010 to move back to Cloverdale area;
Have lived in area 20 years.
Current Governmental Experience
Currently Serving remainder of 4 year
term on Cloverdale Rural Fire District
I want to thank all property owners in the Cloverdale Rural Fire
Protection District who supported the request for much needed
Bond Measure. We will continue to work with the Fire Chief and
Volunteer Staff as a team. Every dollar that we requested in the
Bond Levy was carefully considered. We only ask for the required
expenditures to address critical issues that negatively affected
our operations. The board takes your support very seriously
and decisions are made with a majority vote of all 5 members.
Our board meetings are open to the public. We urge anyone to
attend if they have questions or concerns as to how the district
is being managed.
The district has come a long way some 50 years ago. Many teams
have been responsible for bringing us to this point. It has been
my pleasure to serve for the past four years and now ask for your
vote for re-election.
Jerry Johnson
Cloverdale Rural Fire Protection District
Director, Position 2
(This information furnished by John W Thomas.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Retired from Fire
Service
Occupational Background: 25
years retail ownership; Volunteer
Firefighter/Officer; Paid Deputy
Fire Chief - Cloverdale Rural
Fire Protection District
Educational Background: Klamath Union High School - Honors
Program; United States Coast Guard Academy - Engineering/
Leadership/Management; National Fire Academy - Fire Science/
Incident Command
Prior Governmental Experience: United States Coast Guard
(Appointed); Board Director - Cloverdale RFPD (Elected)
I have been affiliated with Cloverdale Rural Fire Protection
District for 27 years and am intimately familiar with the opera-
tion and growth of this superb department. For the past 10
years I have served as the Secretary/Treasurer on the Board
of Directors and have had the responsibility of handling millions
of dollars of taxpayer approved funds that have allowed us to
provide our constituents with increased service delivery and to
provide our Staff and Volunteers with the necessary tools to do
their jobs safely and efficiently. I am proud of the Board’s track
record and am excited to ask for your continued trust and sup-
port by casting your vote so that I may continue to serve.
John W Thomas
Cloverdale Rural Fire Protection District
Director, Position 1
NO PHOTO
SUBMITTED
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-41 Candidates
(This information furnished by Raymond Miao.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Retired
Occupational Background:
Corporate Vice President, Coast
to Coast; Director Exploratory
Research, HANA Biologics;
Senior Scientist, Stanford
Research Institute International
Educational Background: Duke University, PhD, Biochemistry;
Queens College, A.B., Chemistry
Prior Governmental Experience: Deschutes County Rural Fire
Protection District #2, Board Member, Vice President, Elected;
DCRFPD #2 Budget Committee, Member, Appointed; Deschutes
Public Library District, Board Member, Elected
Deschutes County Rural Fire Protection District #2 (District)
ensures that our residents receive fire/emergency medical ser-
vices through a contract with the City of Bend Fire Department.
We work with the Fire Chief/City Officials to increase service
quality and ensure long-term financial stability of the fire
department.
The District owns six fire stations that we lease to the City as
part of our fire/emergency services contract. New stations
in Bend and Tumalo were built to better meet District goals
- saving lives and property. They were built without any tax
increases to District and City residents. Responsible conserva-
tive financial planning and management is a hallmark of the
District Board.
We face many challenges due to increased growth with
increased demands for emergency medical and fire services.
The collaboration, trust and mutual respect that I have helped
build between the District and Bend Fire Department is a key
factor to ensure excellent fire and emergency services to meet
these challenges for District residents. During my tenure on the
Board, cardiac arrest survival rates improved from 20% to over
50% (national average 30%), saving lives.
Wildfires have become more frequent and intense resulting in
greater loss of life and property. Experience and knowledge
about saving lives and property from wildfires is important
for a District Board member. I am active in several wildfire
prevention associations including Woodside Ranch Fire Safety/
Education Committees (my neighborhood), Project Wildfire
(Deschutes County) and National Fire Protection Association
(national).
I ask for your vote to continue to develop strong fire and emer-
gency medical services through sound, conservative financial
management and strategic planning.
Raymond Miao
Deschutes County Rural Fire Protection District #2
Director, Position 5
(This information furnished by Michael Vietzke.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Retired
Occupational Background:
General Manager and Financial
industry overseeing and improv-
ing the bottom line for million-
dollar companies; Business
Owner; Volunteer Fire Fighter.
Educational Background: Stayton High School Diploma;
Chemeketa Community College EMT classes
Prior Governmental Experience: Interview Panelist La Pine Fire
Chief Selection Committee 2023
I want to be your voice on the board and to listen to your
concerns and your ideas. Finding common sense solutions and
making good decisions are key and I have those characteristics
to carry the La Pine Rural Fire District into the future.
What would I want to accomplish if I only had 10 years
to live? I would like to leave behind a legacy that would
benefit others with my knowledge and experience but
what could I do to make a difference? With my business
knowledge and experience and fire department experi-
ence I believed I could make a difference on the La Pine
Fire Protection District Board. The decisions this board
makes impacts the health and safety of the whole commu-
nity, individually and as a whole. The difference between
responding to a fire in ten minutes instead of 20 minutes
could be your house or your life. Our community is grow-
ing and is causing an increase in the need for services in
our area. We need to make policy that benefits not just the
La Pine Rural Fire District but the whole community. I want
to make sure your tax dollars are spent wisely. Creating
more opportunities to grow the number of firefighters we
need, finding ways to lessen the number of fires, balanc-
ing the budget, creating fire hydrant coverage, juggling
multiple fire or EMS calls and much more are many
of goals I want to achieve. Finding real solutions and
representing you is my vision. I am asking for your vote to
accomplish a safer community for all.
Michael Vietzke
La Pine Rural Fire Protection District
Director, Position 3
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-42 Candidates
(This information furnished by Rex Lesueur.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Insurance Pro-
fess ional
Occupational Background:
1979 to 1990 Insurance
Professional New York, New
York; 1990 to 2021 Owner of
Bancorp Insurance La Pine
Oregon; 2021 Agent Bancorp Insurance
Educational Background: College of Insurance (New York), BS
Business with Insurance minor
Prior Governmental Experience: Budget Committee La Pine
Park and Recreation
Neighbors,
The La Pine Rural Fire Protection District (the “District”) is a
critical part of our community. As someone who has, with my
wife, not only raised my family here in La Pine, but also built
our business, the safety and well-being of the community is
extremely important to me. Without well-funded and sup-
ported fire protection and emergency medical services for the
residents of the south county area, the safety of our community
is at risk.
Everyday, the District provides emergency life-saving services
to our residents and the visitors who come to the south county
area. But due to enormous population growth, our medical,
ambulance, and fire protection services are not able to meet
the need and save the lives, homes, and other structures it was
once capable of serving. These challenges require the District
to be properly funded and staffed to ensure a future that is safe
and thriving.
MY EXPERIENCE
As part of my business career, I have insured with over 30
Special Districts. I understand that Special Districts are single
purpose entities and how they function.
During my 30 years as owner of Bancorp Insurance, I took the
agency from a 3 person business to 13 employees. I did this by
building a team of highly motivated, seasoned professionals.
Other Board Experience:
● La Pine Industrial Park Group 1995 to 2015
● Sunriver La Pine Economic Development Council 2015 to
Present
● La Pine Chamber of Commerce 2001 to Present;
President 2018 to 2019
● La Pine Park and Recreation Budget Committee 2002 to
Present
With my business experience, my non-profit board experience,
and Special District experience, I am determined to help the
District chart a safe and healthy course for our community.
Information at rexlesueur.com
Rex Lesueur
La Pine Rural Fire Protection District
Director, Position 4
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-43 Candidates
(This information furnished by Robin Mirrasoul.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Retired Business
Owner
Occupational Background:
Business owner: responsible
for management, finance, em-
ployee relations, etc. Advisor/
Instructor: Small Business
Development Center at COCC. Volunteer EMT 2D, Lieutenant.
Educational Background: COCC: Business Management – 2
year certificate; COCC: EMT, 2D -certificate; Executive Board
Training - certificate
Prior Governmental Experience: La Pine Rural Fire Protection
District - Budget Committee; City of La Pine - Economic
Development Board and Transient Room Tax Committee
National headlines speak of employee shortages and increased
costs. We recognize that La Pine is not immune to these chal-
lenges and how they directly impact our fire district. We face
many complex issues and experienced leadership is needed to
face the challenges of today’s economic climate head-on. I
believe that my extensive business experience and long-term
commitment to La Pine RFPD will be a great asset to the
District and the community.
EXPERIENCE
I have successfully started, operated, and sold 3 businesses
– one to a Fortune 500 Company. I was responsible for all as-
pects of those businesses – management, finance, employee
relations, etc. My experience led to a position as an Advisor/
Instructor for COCC’s Small Business Development Center.
I have experience on a number of boards as well as years of
management experience to help work through the challenges
the District faces. I served for 8 years as a volunteer EMT and
5 years as a Chaplain for both police and fire; I fully understand
the unique complexities that First Responders face on a daily
basis.
COMMITMENT
As a former volunteer Officer with the La Pine Rural Fire
Protection District, I understand and care deeply about our fire
department. I have served on the fire budget committee for the
previous four years and see the issues impacting both person-
nel and residents. I am committed to serving both the District
and our community with integrity.
Robin Mirrasoul
La Pine Rural Fire Protection District
Director, Position 5
(This information furnished by Troy Waddell.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Firefighter/para-
medic with Sunriver Fire and
Rescue, 2021-current
Occupational Background:
Fire Lieutenat/Paramedic for
Lake Oswego Fire Department,
2006-2021; 1SG (RET.) US
Army ORNG, C Co. 1/41 Support Bn 41st INF BN, 1999-2015;
Washington County Sherrifs Department Tactical Negotiations
Team, SWAT Medic, 2004-2014
Educational Background: Applied Associates of Science,
Chemeketa Community College, EMT Paramedic; Applied
Associates of Science, Chemeketa Community College, Fire
Protection Technology; General Education Diploma, Camas
Valley High School
Prior Governmental Experience: 1 SG (RET) C Medical Evac-
uation Aviation Company ORNG
I am a current Firefighter/Paramedic with Sunriver Fire
and Rescue. Having a good working relationship with the
Firefighters in La Pine has given me unique insight into the
challenges our firefighters face every day. My goal is to
maintain fiscal responsibility as well as accountability of Fire
Department management, line staff, and fire district. I served
as a flight medic in the Oregon Army National Guard and was
one of the first forty Oregonians deployed to Afghanistan in
2002/2003. I retired after a twenty-year career in 2015. My final
assignment was as a 1SG with Charlie Medical Co. 1/41 sup-
port BN, supervising over eighty soldiers. I believe my profes-
sional firefighting experience along with my military experience
will bring transparency, accountability, and increased safety to
the families of La Pine as well as our neighboring communities.
Endorsed by:
La Pine Professional Firefighters Local 3387 fully endorses
Troy Waddell. With his history in the Military and as a
Professional Fire Lieutenant/Paramedic with Lake Oswego Fire
Department and Currently with Sunriver Fire Department. We
believe Troy will do what is best for the community and has the
communities needs as the #1 priority as a Fire Board Member.
Troy Waddell
La Pine Rural Fire Protection District
Director, Position 5
NO PHOTO
SUBMITTED
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-44 Candidates
(This information furnished by Tom Herrmann.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Retired business
attorney
Occupational Background:
Gleaves Swearingen LLP,
Eugene, Oregon (served as
Managing Partner, Management
Committee Member, Business
Law Department Chair and Recruiting Partner); Lane Powell PC,
Seattle, Washington, attorney
Educational Background: University of Oregon School of Law,
JD; University of Oregon, BS, Political Science
Prior Governmental Experience: Eugene School District 4J
Board of Directors (Vice-Chair and Chair); Eugene School District
4J Budget Committeee
I am a retired business attorney. I practiced law in
Eugene for most of my career and now live in Sisters. I have
a strong belief that each of us is responsible for giving back
to the communities in which we live. I have a demonstrated
commitment to public service, including experience serving on
governmental boards (Eugene School District 4J Board (Chair))
and on a wide variety of business and non-profit boards, as
well as serving as an active volunteer with a number of civic,
political and athletic organizations.
I am currently a member of the Sisters Rodeo Board of
Directors. I also volunteer with the Sisters Camp Sherman
Fire District as a member of the Fire Corps and the Safety
Committee. In doing so, I have experienced firsthand the
important and excellent work the Sisters Camp Sherman Fire
District Board, professional staff and volunteers do for the
benefit of our community. Consequently, I was honored and
humbled to be asked to consider running for this open seat
on the Board of Directors. I am an effective and collaborative
leader and have the knowledge, experience and commitment
to be a positive addition to the board. I would appreciate your
support.
Tom Herrmann
Sisters-Camp Sherman Rural Fire Protection District
Director, Position 4
(This information furnished by John Blanton.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Retired
Occupational Background:
Education & Workforce
Coordinator, Oregon Depart-
ment of Community Colleges
& Workforce Development;
Rapid Response Coordinator
/ Workforce Advisor, Clackamas Community College; Small
Business Owner
Educational Background: Clackamas Community College,
Associates Degree
Prior Governmental Experience: Appointed Director of
Redmond Fire & Rescue, February 2023; Elected Director of
Clackamas Fire District 1, May 2013; Appointed Director of
Clackamas Fire District 1, October 2012
I am honored to have been appointed as a Director of
Redmond Fire & Rescue to represent and serve you, the
citizens of the fire district. I know how important our fire
district is as the first responder responsible for fire, emergency
medical service, rescue, public safety and community educa-
tion services for the citizens of the communities it serves. It
is highly respected, professional, reliable, fiscally responsible,
well trained and lead.
It would be an honor for me to continue to utilize my experience
to serve as a Director of this agency. I have an understanding
of the challenges facing fire and emergency medical service
agencies today. Our community is growing and it is important to
stay focused on the growing demands for fire and emergency
medical services for the safety of our citizens and firefighters. I
have had progressive working experience as a board member
of fire districts, as a civic leader, in business, building and main-
taining professional relationships and partnerships, as a team
player with business, education, unions, local, county, state and
federal officials.
These experiences make me a strong candidate to continue to
represent you, as a member of your Redmond Fire & Rescue
Board of Directors.
The mission and values of the fire district are all highly respect-
able, and reflect the true dedication and service that our fire
district portrays to the community it serves through it’s leader-
ship, integrity, courage, accountability, respect, excellence and
safety everyday. These are all values that I believe in and
support.
I thank you for your consideration and your vote.
John Blanton
Redmond Fire & Rescue
Director, Position 3
NO PHOTO
SUBMITTED
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-45 Candidates
(This information furnished by Donna Owens.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Retired
Occupational Background:
US Forest Service 1979-2018
Educational Background:
Pierce College, AA; San Diego
State University, BA
Prior Governmental Experience: BPRD Budget Committee;
BPRD Board of Directors
Since I was appointed to position #1 on January 3, 2023, I
have been honored to serve on the Bend Park and Recreation
District Board of Directors. I am passionate about our parks,
trails, open spaces, and the facilities that make up the BPRD.
I am seeking your vote to continue my work.
I fell in love with Bend from the time I moved here in 1979 for a
job with the US Forest Service; beginning with the iconic Drake
and Shevlin Parks. Bend has grown and many things have
changed, yet our parks, trails, and programs remain valued and
vital to our community. Thoughtfulness, good stewardship, and
bold acquisitions are key to sustaining parks in all areas and
neighborhoods as our density and population increase.
Opportunities for acquiring and maintaining open spaces are at
risk for designation for other purposes. Once gone, our future
generations will miss out on our natural landscape and history. I
promoted awareness of our small County Worrell Wayside Park
to stop its redevelopment into parking spaces. This is my pas-
sion; to save our current parks and turn more open spaces into
new parks for our children as finances and support allow.
As Bend grows, so do the challenges for our BPRD.I believe
the BPRD is a premier organization with the expertise and fore-
sight to withstand the pressures of pandemics, climate change,
fiscal challenges, and growth. I want to serve on the Board
to promote our world-class parks, facilities, and programs so
everyone can use and enjoy this community asset now and into
the future.
I’m an honest, trustworthy, dedicated senior citizen willing to
work hard as a Board member for you and the BPRD.
Please vote for me for position #1.
Endorsed by Jeanne Debons, PhD Botanical Artist
Donna Owens
Bend Metro Park and Recreation District
Director, Position 1
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-46 Candidates
(This information furnished by Mark O’Brien.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Retired
Occupational Background:
Commercial Construction
Educational Background:
Concord High School; Los
Medanos College
Prior Governmental Experience: Current seat holder
I have lived in La Pine for 6 years. In that time, I have worked
closely with the Executive Director for the during fundraisers
and on the Findley Butte Park improvements and beautification
projects in which I organized or participated.
I am very excited about this opportunity to do my share of com-
munity service regarding our parks and vacant land available
to the LPRD. During this tenure I want to work with the ED to
procure grants for a Master Plan which is critical for any public
land development. In my vision I would like to see more walking/
running/biking trails amongst the trees and wetlands and a large
multi-use indoor sports facility for our winter months activities.
Letter of Endorsement
I am enthusiastically recommending that Mark O’Brien be chosen
for a seat on the LPRD Board of Directors. Mark is someone that
I, and everyone in our club, can count on for help, advice, as-
sistance in learning the game, projects, decisions, and advancing
our goals as a club.
Mark is a past club board member and played an integral part in
many of the decisions which made our club what is today. Mark’s
determination and hard work helped make the development and
completion of the outdoor pickleball courts, built entirely with
private funds, possible. He organized many of the beautification
projects to improve Findley Butte Park.
Mark would be an exceptional choice for the Board of Directors.
I believe you would be hard pressed to find a better candidate
for this position.
Cathy Hundley
La Pine Pickleball Club-Committee Director
Frontier Days Pickleball Tournament Director
Mark O’Brien
La Pine Park and Recreation District
Director, Position 2
(This information furnished by Jodie Barram.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Self-Employed,
Co-Coordinator, Oregon Living
With Fire; Self-Employed,
Administrative Support, Central
Oregon Fire Chiefs Association;
Seasonal, Public Information
Officer, NW Team 6, US Forest
Service
Occupational Background: Self-Employed, Independent
Contractor, International Association of Fire Chiefs; Self-
Employed, Program Director, Project Wildfire; Public Affairs
Specialist, Bend Fire & Rescue; Director of Fundraising, Tower
Theatre Foundation; Substitute Educational Assistant, High
Desert ESD
Educational Background: George Fox University, Bachelor
of Arts
Prior Governmental Experience: Bend Park and Recreation
District Board of Directors, Jan. 2023-Present; Bend City Council,
2008-2014, Mayor Pro Tem, 2011-2014; Bend Metropolitan
Planning Organization Budget Committee, Chair, 2008; Bend
Planning Commission, 2005-2008, Vice Chair 2006-2008
I am passionate about public service. We must take care of
what we have while preparing for the future. By providing the
physical spaces, both natural and developed, as well as a
diverse offering of programs for the community at large we
can excel at building community. Your vote for me this May will
allow me to continue serving you as a Bend Park & Recreation
District Board Member.
Key Themes
• Strengthen BPRD’s existing partnerships with other
agencies and look for new ones, cultivating trust be-
tween organizations and with the community.
• Consciously reduce barriers to participate or be in-
cluded. Building community with an awareness towards
inclusivity.
• Environmental stewardship whether related to a natural
or developed outdoor area or facilities.
As a Central Oregon native who moved back to Bend 24 years
ago, I am an avid user of the District’s programs, trails, parks,
natural areas, river access points, and off leash dog areas. My
children grew up benefiting from many BPRD offerings and are
now young adults living elsewhere in the state.
I will deliver on BPRD’s mission to strengthen community vital-
ity and foster healthy, enriched lifestyles by providing excep-
tional park and recreation services.
Endorsed by the Oregon League of Conservation Voters.
Strength. Integrity. Experience.
jodieforparks.com
Jodie Barram
Bend Metro Park and Recreation District
Director, Position 2
NO PHOTO
SUBMITTED
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-47 Candidates
(This information furnished by Gary S Gordon.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Small business
owner – kokanee fishing tackle
Occupational Background:
Attorney at Law 1975-2014;
Adjunct Professor of Law 1975-
1981; Deputy Public Defender
Nevada County CA 1985-2013
Educational Background: University of California, Santa
Barbara, Bachelor of Arts 1971; Southwestern University School
of Law, Juris Doctor 1974; Deschutes County Government
College 2014
Prior Governmental Experience: La Pine Park & Recreation
District Board of Directors and Chairman 2015 to 2023
Eight years ago my platform was to make the District respon-
sive to the community, while being transparent and practicing
careful financial management. Those promises have been
kept. It has been my honor to be the Board Chairman the past
eight years.
Here is a partial list of what has been accomplished:
• Modernized accounting and planning
• Rewrote organizational policies for compliance with State
law
• Balanced the District Budget all eight years
• Expanded recreation and educational programs for youth
and adults
• I wrote the mandated Revised Comprehensive Plan, saving
taxpayers $75,000
• Established Music in the Pines free summer concerts – no
expense to taxpayers (community sponsors)
• Finley Butte Park: Restored Community Building; finished
pickleball courts
• New safe playgrounds in Heritage Park
• Partnered with Band of Brothers for American and Service
Flag poles; Veteran’s Memorial Brick Garden
• Community Center: paved parking lot, flooring in gym,
completion of kitchen
• Restructured operation of Rosland Park as a year-round
facility that self-sustains its operating costs, reinvesting
those funds into improvements.
• Maintained fiscal integrity during the COVID crisis
• Established Kelly Young Memorial Park as a self-sustain-
ing pubic archery facility
I appreciate your vote to continue serving our community.
Gary S Gordon
La Pine Park and Recreation District
Director, Position 4
(This information furnished by Zachary L Harmon.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Certified Public
Accountant - Capstone CPAs
Occupational Background:
None
Educational Background:
Western Oregon University -
Bachelors in Science - Business and Accounting
Prior Governmental Experience: Redmond Area Parks and
Recreation Board Member 2013 - current
My name is Zachary Harmon and I am running for RAPRD
Board Position No. 4. I currently serve on the board of RAPRD
and previously served on the RAPRD Budget Committee. I
am excited for our community with the recently passed the
bond measure for a new community recreation center. With the
continued growth the Redmond Area has seen over the last
20 years the new center will provide more opportunities for all
residents to recreate in a variety of ways. I look forward to the
construction process and would like to continue serving the
community on the board with your vote. Thank you!
Zachary L Harmon
Redmond Area Park & Recreation District
Director, Position 4
NO PHOTO
SUBMITTED
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-48 Candidates
(This information furnished by David Rouse.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Retired; Senior
Fellow, Portland State University
-current
Occupational Background:
Civil engineer, City Of Gresham,
OR, Environmental Services
Director. Responsible for pro-
viding Parks & Recreation services and public works functions
(transportation, water, wastewater, recycling). Responsibilities
included parks masterplanning, development, maintenance,
capital planning and budgeting.
Educational Background: Bachelor Civil Engineering, University
of Portland
Prior Governmental Experience: Extensive experience working
with City Councils, County Commissions, Special Districts and
Boards. Currently serving as a Senior Fellow, Portland State
University, specializing in sustainability and energy conservation
for local governments.
My name is David Rouse, I’m currently running for Board
Director of Redmond Area Park & Recreation District (RAPRD).
I am a life long Oregonian growing up on a cattle ranch in
Baker City. I served in the US military with the Navy Seabees
during the Vietnam era,. After service commitment, I enrolled
at University of Portland obtaining a Bachelors degree in Civil
Engineering. Married, five children, all Oregon residents. Upon
retirement my wife & I moved to central Oregon where we en-
joy everything the great outdoors provides, skiing, hiking, biking
and kayaking in central Oregon sunshine.
34 years in the public sector primarily with the City of Gresham,
OR. As the Environmental Services Director, responsible for
Parks & Recreation and public works functions (transportation,
water, wastewater, and recycling) for the cities 100,000 resi-
dents. Responsibilities included Parks masterplanning & devel-
opment, capital planning, budgeting and parks maintenance.
Extensive experience working with City Councils, County
Commissions, Special District and Boards. Currently a Senior
Fellow, Portland State University, partnering with local govern-
ments on sustainability and energy conservation projects.
Moving to central Oregon I was immediately impressed with the
quality of recreation opportunities available, and the importance
these services play in the quality of life for Redmond residents.
Upcoming new parks programs, the recently approved recre-
ation center, are exciting opportunities. I am uniquely qualified
to contribute to the ongoing success of RAPRD and would
appreciate your vote.
David Rouse
Redmond Area Park & Recreation District
Director, Position 4
(This information furnished by BJ Soper)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Self Employed
Home School Dad and farmer
Occupational Background:
Property Management and
Maintenance; Residential
General Contractor; Rancher;
Farmer
Educational Background: Graduated From Sparks High School,
Sparks, Nevada in 1994
Prior Governmental Experience: Elected PCP Deschutes
Republican Party
Today, in a world so filled with divisiveness, it is more impor-
tant than ever to cultivate community. What better way to con-
nect with our neighbors than by engaging in activities found
right here in our own Parks and Recreation Centers! Building
community is a top priority and engaging with neighbors is the
best first step to bridging the divides we face as a City, State,
and Nation.
Competition is a great way to teach and train the future leaders
of this Country. Through sports, our children learn critical skills
in leadership and how to work together to accomplish a goal.
Winning and losing is a part of real life for which youth sports
gives our children an early opportunity to learn how to handle
both success and failure, lessons everyone must have. As
a coach (volunteer at RHS basketball 2013-2014 and many
years in Little League in Nevada) I am here to ensure that our
Redmond children have the opportunity to engage in a sport
at every level. This is a major factor in running for Redmond
Parks and Rec Position 4. Central Oregon produces great
young athletes. They need the facilities and programs to be the
best they can be to continue this tradition.
With a background in Construction, Maintenance and Property
Management, I have the knowledge and skillset to ensure the
best use of Taxpayer money earmarked for repairs, upgrades
and new construction. Accountability to the people who make
our district possible is very important.
Finally, my motto is “Our Community First” and will work to
make our Parks and Recreation Centers places we can all be
proud of and willing to support.
BJ Soper
Redmond Area Park & Recreation District
Director, Position 4
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-49 Candidates
(This information furnished by Louie Arzaga.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Business Systems
Engineer – Choice Plus LLC
– Paid; Business Systems
Engineer / Financial Analyst –
Nth Media Co - Paid; Founder/
Co-Owner- Loop International
Corporation - Unpaid
Occupational Background: Owner - Asset Recovery Collective
– Paid; Business Analyst and Systems Manager Decurion
Corporation - Paid; Technical Analyst & Professional Education
Trainer - Paid
Educational Background: California Polytechnic State
University-San Luis Obispo (CalPoly, San Luis Obispo) –
Graduate – Master of Business Administration; CalPoly, San Luis
Obispo – Graduate – City and Regional Planning; University of
California, Los Angeles (UCLA) – Undergraduate – Sociology;
altMBA, Seth Godin – Helping Leaders to Effectively Drive Change
Within Their Organizations
Prior Governmental Experience: None
WHY LOUIE ARZAGA?
To whom much is given, much is required. How can one sit
by with God given skills, talents and experiences that would
benefit his family, neighborhood, community, city, state and
country?
Since elementary school I have benefited from being involved
with organized sports, like flag football, basketball, soccer, track
& field, which prepared me for my high school sports of JV
Soccer, Varsity Tennis and Varsity Wrestling.
The life skills of discipline, teamwork, leadership, focus, prob-
lem solving, critical thinking, loyalty, sacrifice and striving for
excellence grounded me to be the Team Captain of the UCLA
Surf Team, the UCLA Surf Club President, an At-Risk Youth
Counselor for UCLA UniCamp (12) 10-12 yo boys, the UCLA
Intramural Finance Committee, and start a clothing company
with a college roommate.
Recreation, the act of recreating ourselves and releasing
mental stress physically is vital to both people and a city. My
Urban Planning background from working in the Real Estate
Construction and Development industry, showed me the impor-
tance of parks and open spaces.
I look forward to doing the important and meaningful work
of enhancing and preserving the high quality of life here in
Redmond for many generations to come.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/louie-arzaga/
LouieArzaga.com
Louie Arzaga
Redmond Area Park & Recreation District
Director, Position 5
(This information furnished by Lena Berry.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Community
Advocate
Occupational Background:
Parent Teacher Club Coor-
dinator, Vern Patrick Elementary;
Patient Care Coordinator,
Providence Hematology & On-
co logy; Endocrinology Medical Assistant, Samaritan Depoe Bay
Clinic
Educational Background: El Molino High School, Diploma
Prior Governmental Experience: 17th Street Partners Committee;
Redmond Police Department Citizens Academy Graduate
I love this community! I coordinate the Sunday Street
Kitchen, 17th Street Cleanups & Streetside Cooling Shelters,
and I volunteer serving meals at Family Kitchen. I’ve also
coordinated local community building events with non-profits,
schools, businesses, service providers and community groups.
As a wife, mother and community advocate, it is important to
me that Redmond Area Park and Recreation District (RAPRD)
curates safe spaces with activities, events, programs and
enrichment opportunities that are accessible and affordable for
everyone in the community.
Thanks to the support of Redmond voters last fall, the RAPRD
will soon begin construction on a new facility. This is an oppor-
tunity to provide more health, recreation and sports programs
in Redmond, saving many of us from making repeated trips to
Bend to use facilities and camps.
A vote for Lena Berry is a vote to:
1. Support the Executive Director, staff and community
in creating a quality, financially sustainable Recreation
Center with as much of a variety of sports, fitness, health,
music, art, well-being and fun opportunities as possible.
2. Promote collaborations with Redmond City businesses,
vendors, coaches and fitness professionals to promote
community involvement & accessibility while meeting the
needs of the community across ages, cultures & abilities.
3. Keep taxes low. I will be a responsible steward of our tax
dollars and do everything in my power to ensure RAPRD
delivers high-quality services as efficiently as possible.
I am asking for your vote so that I can do the hard work of
ensuring Redmond families can continue to count on the won-
derful spaces and activities our park district provides.
www.ElectLenaBerry.com
Lena Berry
Redmond Area Park & Recreation District
Director, Position 5
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-50 Candidates
Sisters Park & Recreation District
Director, Position 5
(This information furnished by Peggy Tehan.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Certified Public
Accountant, Property Manage-
ment
Occupational Background:
Partner in Public Accounting
Firm 1997-2021; Small business
owner & operator 1984-2020;
Bookkeeping & Licensed Tax Preparer 1991-1996; Licensed
Oregon Outfitter
Educational Background: Kittitas High School – High School
Diploma; Washington State University – Bachelor of Music 1980;
Lane County Community College; Central Oregon Community
College
Prior Governmental Experience: 2005-2006, Appointed
– Budget Committee Sisters Organization for Activities and
Recreation (SOAR); 2007, Appointed to Board of Directors
Sisters Organization for Activities and Recreation (SOAR); 2008
– Current, Elected Board of Directors SOAR / Sisters Park and
Recreation District
I am asking for your vote to re-elect me to the board of direc-
tors of Sisters Park and Recreation District (SPRD). I have
proudly served on the board ever since 2007 including thirteen
years as board treasurer and two as board president.
As a certified public accountant, I bring years of experience
in financial management which directly contributes to what I
believe is the most important duty of a board member, fiscal
responsibility.
On this same ballot is SPRD’s measure to renew its local op-
tion operating levy for another five years. With your approval
the district can continue its forward progress to provide our
youth and adults with a full range of programs and enhance our
facilities to better serve the community. I am especially excited
about SPRD working with the Sisters School District to convert
the current elementary school to a multi-use community center
when the new elementary school opens in 2024. All of this
requires a strong board to guide, oversee and govern the orga-
nization and assure it is meeting the needs of Sisters Country.
I am proud of SPRD’s positive impact on our community and
the essential service it provides.
With your vote of approval, I can continue to serve you and the
Sisters Park and Recreation District on the board of directors.
Peggy Tehan
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-51 Candidates
(This information furnished by Cynthia Claridge.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Retired
Occupational Background:
Beaverton Schools; Redmond
Schools; Paulina Springs Books
Educational Background:
Oregon State University, Grad-
uated BS
Prior Governmental Experience: Deschutes Public Library
Board
It is a privilege to represent you on the Deschutes Public
Library Board of directors since 2018. I am now seeking re-
election.
Having lived, worked, and raised three daughters in Redmond for
the last 44 years, I’ve been actively involved in our community.
* Taught Kindergarten through third grade for the Redmond
School District for 22 years
* Co-owned downtown bookstore for 8 years
* Volunteered as Court Appointed Special Advocate for
CASA of Central Oregon since 2017
* Served on library Novel Idea Committee
* Volunteered with the Redmond Street Kitchen, providing
food for the community’s houseless
* Was actively involved with Redmond Chamber of
Commerce
* Served on the Redmond Library board prior to the forma-
tion of Deschutes Public Library District
I believe I have an appreciation and understanding for the needs
in our community. We all feel the strains on our current infra-
structure due to the rapid growth over the last several decades in
Redmond and Deschutes County. The Deschutes Public Library
Board recognized this growth and the impact it will have on the
library system and the public. Accordingly, the board sought
expert guidance on the best way forward for the entire library
system. With the passage of the library bond in November, 2020,
the Board approved remodeling existing buildings and building
new structures to meet the needs of our citizens.
My commitment is to ensure our library system delivers the
necessary services and materials to our citizens. People
must have access to the materials they want and need. I am
committed to utilizing taxpayers’ dollars efficiently to provide a
well-organized service. I look forward to a second term on the
Deschutes Public Library Board to fulfill these commitments.
Thank you for your consideration and your vote.
Endorsed by Susan B. Torassa, Former Library Board Member
Cynthia Claridge
Deschutes Public Library District
Director, Zone 1
(This information furnished by Tony Oliver.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Retired Industrial
Engineer
Occupational Background:
Court-Appointed Special Advo-
cate for Foster Children – 12
years; Mountain Star Nursery
– “Fairy Godmother” for children
in need; Philanthropic Education Organization – Funding scholar-
ships for women returning to work
Educational Background: Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees,
Arizona State University
Prior Governmental Experience: Community Advocate
I am running because I believe local community libraries play
a key role in the development of our fast-growing city. As a
children’s advocate I know that investments in strong neighbor-
hood libraries can help our kids grow and prosper.
LET’S USE OUR TAXES WISELY
Deschutes County narrowly passed a $195 million library
bond, but it failed in Redmond. Now we learn they’re plan-
ning to spend $130 million of the bond on one huge facility in
southeast Bend, over an hour’s drive round trip from central
Redmond. We shouldn’t have to pay for a library we’ll never
visit. Instead, we should insist that more of our taxpayer funds
support our local libraries here.
WE DESERVE LIBRARIES THAT SUPPORT REDMOND’S
GOALS
We’re being overlooked here in Redmond. The Library Board
has shown complete disregard for the historic value of our
Jesse Hill School and has planned a new building that does not
fit with Redmond. I will work for more compatible libraries. We
need to insist that our taxpayer dollars be spent to meet our
needs here.
WE NEED A LIBRARY BOARD MEMBER THAT STANDS UP
FOR REDMOND’S INTERESTS
LIBRARIES SHOULD SUPPORT EVERYONE
Community libraries should provide access for older adults,
families and kids, the disabled, disadvantaged, those who can’t
travel long distances to one “central” facility. I advocate fair and
equitable investments that support everyone in our community.
I ask for your vote – help build Redmond’s libraries
Proudly Endorsed by:
Patti Adair, Deschutes County Commissioner
George Endicott, Redmond Mayor 2009-2022
R. Scott Stuart, Republican Party Chair
Shannon Wedding, Redmond City Councilor
Brandon Weimer, Herringbone Bookstore Owner
Tony Oliver
Deschutes Public Library District
Director, Zone 1
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-52 Candidates
(This information furnished by Raymond Miao.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Retired medical
scientist researching cancer
progression and prevention
Occupational Background:
Senior Scientist, Stanford Re-
search Institute International;
Director Exploratory Research,
Hana Biologics; VP, Coast-to-Coast Analytical Services
Educational Background: Duke University, Ph.D., Biochemistry;
Queens College, A.B., Chemistry
Prior Governmental Experience: Deschutes Public Library
District, Board Member. Elected 6 times; Oregon State Library,
Board Member. Appointed; Deschutes County Rural Fire
Protection District #2, Board Member. Elected
I love libraries; I helped found our library district
I’ve worked to make our libraries outstanding even in the face
of continued population growth. I have worked to build libraries
that make livable, complete communities.
I stand for:
• Community libraries that you can easily get to.
• Sound financial/strategic planning. Growth has paid
for itself and with forward-looking planning will continue to
do so.
• Better book collections in all libraries. There will
always be room for books, electronic books and resources
for everyone in our libraries.
• Keeping up with developments in technology now and
in the future. Incorporate them, as appropriate to provide
better and faster services.
• Asking and responding to what communities want.
Reconsider size and design of the proposed new Bend
library.
A key role of the board is to prepare for the future. To do
that, you need to know past, present and future trends; what
has and hasn’t worked for other libraries and what does it all
teaches us.
Experience and knowledge count.
I agree with the American Library Association position that
a principal role of libraries is to build strong communities.
Community libraries are one of the best ways to do this.
Community libraries connect people through programs and
resources.
Everyone deserves a great library
I ask for your vote so we can continue to build strong, finan-
cially stable libraries.
Endorsed by:
Phil Chang, Deschutes County Commissioner
Patti Adair, Deschutes County Commissioner
Paul Dewey, Land Use Advocate
Barb Campbell, Bend City Councilor
Toby Bayard, Founder, Supporters of Literacy
David Osgood, PhD, Former University Professor
Rebecca Brown, Farmer Brown’s
Raymond Miao
Deschutes Public Library District
Director, Zone 4
(This information furnished by Marisa Chappell Hossick.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Deschutes River
Conservancy, Communications
Director (2010-present)
Occupational Background:
Karnopp Petersen, Marketing
(2003-2010)
Educational Background: University of Oregon, BA (French
Literature)
Prior Governmental Experience: None
Fresh Independent Outlook
• Doing the hard work to provide excellence in library services.
• Bringing fresh ideas as a working mother of school-age
children.
• Committed to listen, understand, and represent the needs
of the community.
Commitment to Fiscal Accountability
• Supporting solutions that are fiscally sustainable.
• Providing long-term vision for tomorrow’s communities.
• Ensuring resources are provided for all community needs
including small business development, non-profit endeav-
ors, personal growth, and early childhood development.
Dedicated to Equal Access for All
• Supporter of intellectual freedom.
• Current president of foundation to support school-age
literacy.
• Passionate about access to life-long learning opportunities.
I have lived in this community for most of my life, as has my
husband. We are raising our children to embody the values
of community, curiosity, respect, and integrity. I have seen
Deschutes County grow and evolve over the past 34 years
and the library has grown along with our communities and our
needs. I am passionate about reading, learning, inclusivity,
and diversity. I think it’s time for a fresh voice on the library
board that can speak for the needs of today and the needs of
the future.
Endorsements:
Neil Bryant
Valerie Yost
Jade Mayer
Marney Smith, Hayden Homes Amphitheater
Jeff Martin, President Cascade Publications Inc.
Brenda Speirs CEO, Buzztag
Kurt and Talena Barker
Patricia O’Neill
Cande Buccola
D. Scott Edmonson
Mary M. Thomas
Joanne Mathews
Gary Bracelin, Bend Outdoor Worx
Marisa Chappell Hossick
Deschutes Public Library District
Director, Zone 4
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-53 Candidates
(This information furnished by Ann Malkin.)
The above information has not been verified for accuracy by the county.
Occupation: Communications
consultant, biotechnology in-
dustry
Occupational Background:
Director of Communications,
Bend Research, 1987-2014
(1996, offsite contractor); Editor
and reporter, Western Communications/Bend Bulletin, 1976-1987
Educational Background: University of Oregon, BA, Journalism
Prior Governmental Experience: Deschutes Public Library
District Board, 2007-present (7 years as chair); State Library
Board, 2014-2021, 2022-present (5 years as chair)
I’m running for re-election to ensure that we have exceptional
libraries to serve our rapidly growing communities in Deschutes
County, prudently managing tax dollars to ensure our libraries
inspire lifelong learning and nurture generations of readers.
EXPERIENCE
I’ve lived in Bend for 46 years and have worked with numerous
nonprofits to improve life in Deschutes County, in such diverse
areas as food insecurity, cultural programs, and STEM educa-
tion. I’ve worked for strong libraries since the 1990s, serving
on the library board since 2007 and the library foundation
board since 2003, where I helped create the “Novel Idea” and
“Author! Author!” literary programs. I’m serving my third term on
the State Library Board.
INTEGRITY
I’m committed to transparency, honesty, and collaboration. I’ve
fought to ensure our libraries deliver the best possible services
at a fiscally sustainable cost and to keep our promises to vot-
ers, working to ensure the building program they approved in
2020 is completed as described, on time, and on budget.
EQUITY
I stand for intellectual freedom and free access to books, pro-
grams, and services for all. Libraries must be safe, welcoming
spaces for everyone.
I believe that our libraries are vital to our democracy, creating
informed citizens and providing free access to digital and physi-
cal resources that help all people thrive.
ENDORSEMENTS
Kelly Cannon-Miller; Bruce Abernethy, Former Bend Mayor;
Chris Van Dyke; Neil Bryant; Jim Crowell; Judy Stiegler, Former
State Representative; Michael P. Hollern; Nancy Blankenship;
Kirk Schueler; Andrew Jordan; Georell Bracelin; Patricia M.
Roden; Lisa Duggan; Kathie Eckman, former Mayor of Bend;
Deschutes Democrats; Brian S. Fleck; Patricia Knollman,
retired teacher; Ann Maudlin; Nicole Meier
Ann Malkin
Deschutes Public Library District
Director, Zone 5
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-54 The Elections Process in Deschutes County
The Elections Process in Deschutes CountyThe Elections Process in Deschutes County
Step 1.
Voter Registration
To register to vote, you are
required to provide valid
identification proving that you
are eligible to vote. After
reviewing and verifying your
information, we enter it into our
voter registration database.
ORS 247.012
Step 2.
Election Equipment
Testing
We use election equipment that
is certified according to State
and Federal standards. We test
our election equipment before,
during, and after each election.
ORS 254.235
Step 5. Verify Voter
Eligibility
Upon receipt of your ballot, it is
sent through our ballot envelope
sorting machine, which scans an
image of your signature while
sorting your ballot by voting
precinct. Trained elections staff
verify your envelope signature
by comparing it to your
signature on file in the voter
registration database.
ORS 247.012, 247.019, 247.025,
& 254.470
Step 6.
Processing Ballots
If your signatures match, your
ballot envelope moves on to be
opened. If they don’t match, we
contact you by mail to resolve
the issue so we can count your
ballot. If a ballot is damaged or
contains machine-unreadable
marks, we flag it for manual
review. Our goal is to count all
eligible ballots as voters intend.
ORS 254.478
Step 7.
Ballot Scanning &
Tabulation
After ballots are removed from
their envelopes, we scan the
ballots and count all the valid
votes to determine the results of
each contest in the election. Our
federally and state certified
voting system is secure and
never connected to the internet.
ORS 254.485, 254.500
Step 8.
Ballot Adjudication
Teams of two staff, each of
different political parties, review
if ballots are damaged, have
stray marks, or have corrections,
undervotes, overvotes, and blank
contests to verify voter intent
and ensure accurate tabulation.
All ballots are stored in a secure
location under 24/7 surveillance.
ORS 254.476, 254.482, 254.483
Step 9.
Unofficial Results
We begin publishing unofficial
results after 8pm on Election
Day. Results are unofficial until
after all ballot return deadlines
have passed and after we have
counted every valid ballot we
received.
ORS 254.545
Find unofficial results on
deschutescounty.gov/electionresults
Step 10.
Certification of Official
Results
After the Board of Canvassers
reviews and verifies the
outcome of the election, official
election results are certified by
the county.
ORS 254.545(3)
Certified election results are
published 27 days after
Election Day on
deschutescounty.gov/electionresults
Step 11.
Audit
Audits are a normal check and
balance that are part of every
election. We use audits to
confirm that election equipment
accurately interpreted and
tallied voters’ ballots, that the
outcome of the election reflects
how voters voted, and that
election workers followed
procedures.
ORS 254.529
Step 12.
Ballot Storage
We securely store all paper
ballots and other records as part
of the official record for two
years. After two years, the
ballots are destroyed.
OAR 166-150-0035(14)(a)
Step 3.
Ballots Are Mailed
All registered voters are mailed
a ballot packet containing their
ballot and a postage-paid return
envelope that has a printed
security weave on the inside
that protects your privacy and
the secrecy of your vote. We
provide registered Uniformed
and Overseas Civilian voters
access to their ballots via mail
or online portal.
ORS 253.065, 253.545, 254.470
Step 4.
Ballot Collection
In Deschutes County, voters can
return their voted ballot by mail
or at one of our ten Official Ballot
Drop Site locations, conveniently
located throughout the county.
Drop Site ballots are collected,
and mailed ballots are received
at our Clerk’s Office located in
the Deschutes Services Building
for ballot tabulation.
ORS 254.4
Official Deschutes County 2023 Special District Election Voters’ Pamphlet
9-55 The Elections Process in Deschutes County
The Elections Process in Deschutes CountyThe Elections Process in Deschutes County
Step 1.
Voter Registration
To register to vote, you are
required to provide valid
identification proving that you
are eligible to vote. After
reviewing and verifying your
information, we enter it into our
voter registration database.
ORS 247.012
Step 2.
Election Equipment
Testing
We use election equipment that
is certified according to State
and Federal standards. We test
our election equipment before,
during, and after each election.
ORS 254.235
Step 5. Verify Voter
Eligibility
Upon receipt of your ballot, it is
sent through our ballot envelope
sorting machine, which scans an
image of your signature while
sorting your ballot by voting
precinct. Trained elections staff
verify your envelope signature
by comparing it to your
signature on file in the voter
registration database.
ORS 247.012, 247.019, 247.025,
& 254.470
Step 6.
Processing Ballots
If your signatures match, your
ballot envelope moves on to be
opened. If they don’t match, we
contact you by mail to resolve
the issue so we can count your
ballot. If a ballot is damaged or
contains machine-unreadable
marks, we flag it for manual
review. Our goal is to count all
eligible ballots as voters intend.
ORS 254.478
Step 7.
Ballot Scanning &
Tabulation
After ballots are removed from
their envelopes, we scan the
ballots and count all the valid
votes to determine the results of
each contest in the election. Our
federally and state certified
voting system is secure and
never connected to the internet.
ORS 254.485, 254.500
Step 8.
Ballot Adjudication
Teams of two staff, each of
different political parties, review
if ballots are damaged, have
stray marks, or have corrections,
undervotes, overvotes, and blank
contests to verify voter intent
and ensure accurate tabulation.
All ballots are stored in a secure
location under 24/7 surveillance.
ORS 254.476, 254.482, 254.483
Step 9.
Unofficial Results
We begin publishing unofficial
results after 8pm on Election
Day. Results are unofficial until
after all ballot return deadlines
have passed and after we have
counted every valid ballot we
received.
ORS 254.545
Find unofficial results on
deschutescounty.gov/electionresults
Step 10.
Certification of Official
Results
After the Board of Canvassers
reviews and verifies the
outcome of the election, official
election results are certified by
the county.
ORS 254.545(3)
Certified election results are
published 27 days after
Election Day on
deschutescounty.gov/electionresults
Step 11.
Audit
Audits are a normal check and
balance that are part of every
election. We use audits to
confirm that election equipment
accurately interpreted and
tallied voters’ ballots, that the
outcome of the election reflects
how voters voted, and that
election workers followed
procedures.
ORS 254.529
Step 12.
Ballot Storage
We securely store all paper
ballots and other records as part
of the official record for two
years. After two years, the
ballots are destroyed.
OAR 166-150-0035(14)(a)
Step 3.
Ballots Are Mailed
All registered voters are mailed
a ballot packet containing their
ballot and a postage-paid return
envelope that has a printed
security weave on the inside
that protects your privacy and
the secrecy of your vote. We
provide registered Uniformed
and Overseas Civilian voters
access to their ballots via mail
or online portal.
ORS 253.065, 253.545, 254.470
Step 4.
Ballot Collection
In Deschutes County, voters can
return their voted ballot by mail
or at one of our ten Official Ballot
Drop Site locations, conveniently
located throughout the county.
Drop Site ballots are collected,
and mailed ballots are received
at our Clerk’s Office located in
the Deschutes Services Building
for ballot tabulation.
ORS 254.4
Deschutes County Clerk
PO Box 6005
Bend OR 97708-6005
Nonprofit OrgECRWSSUS PostagePAIDBend ORPermit No 243
RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER