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About Heppner gazette-times. (Heppner, Or.) 1925-current | View Entire Issue (Nov. 9, 2022)
Recall ballots have been mailed out Heppner Gazette-Times, Heppner, Oregon Wednesday, November 9 , 2022 -- SEVEN -Continued to PAGE ONE be made outside of the full clear that in the remaining Irrigon: 205 NE 3 rd St. (Irrigon Annex). Open 24 hours. Following is the in- formation that is on the ballot for your decision. Listed is the reason from the petitioners who gath- ered the required number of signatures for the recall, and the response from each commissioner as to why they should not be recalled. Recall of Jim Doherty Reason for demanding the Recall: Petitioners seek re- call of Commissioner Jim Doherty for the reasons stated below: Commis- sioner Doherty’s decisions are not in the best interest of Morrow County citi- zens. He is not open and transparent in his actions as commissioner, making Decisions in secret and out- side of public purview and without the inclusion of the third County Commission- er. Commission meetings are not held in accordance with public open meeting law requirements. Doherty does not cooperate with other public and private agencies lo the detriment of Morrow County citizens. His decisions regarding Morrow County employ- ees has demoralized County employees and has been detrimental to a function- al County government. Decisions are not made in the best interest of County taxpayers resulting in fiscal detriment to the County. Response from Commis- sioner Doherty: I will stand behind you, beside you or in front of you; rest assured I stand with you. This continues to be my guiding principle. When you fearlessly carry the voice of the people, those seeking continued suppression and disregard for the health and wellness of the community will stop at no ends. I dismiss the allegations with the fol- lowing: No decisions can board. County meetings are crafted and followed under the direction of county council. The county is in the best fiscal condition it has ever seen. I have forged a partnership with every agency committed to making your life better. Transparency has been and remains the hallmark of my civic service. All of my decisions are based on the best possible outcome of your health and future. This sadly is an attempt to silence your voice in the process. I remain commit- ted to standing up for clean water, community inclu- sion, honest leadership and the achievement of your dreams. I have an immea- surable love for this county and you. I will continue to advocate for you. “Yes we can.” “Si se puede.” Recall of Melissa Lindsay Reason for demanding the Recall: A s a c o m m i s s i o n- er your primary duty is to work for and with the people who elected you into office. Commissioner Lindsay has violated that trust in many ways, one being by intimidating coun- ty employees, resulting in either their firing or leaving their jobs under duress. Commissioner Lindsay has repeatedly exhibited unprofessional behavior in her role as a public official. Commissioner Lindsay’s actions have created county wide disapproval with other government and charita- ble organizations, refusing to listen to them. Com- missioner Lindsay heard from the voters in the last election, however she will serve until January 2023, at which time she will be replaced by the new Com- missioner elect. The action of the firing of the Morrow County Administrator, with no transparency, refusing to let the public speak, or answer the Administrators questions about why he was sitting there, made it time of her tenure, this behavior would contin- ue and could cause added financial burdens to our county. To prevent irrevers- ible damage, an immediate recall is the only answer. Response from Commis- sioner Lindsay: As a champion for eastern Oregon values and Morrow County, I’m grate- ful and honored to have served as commissioner for six years. Through hard work, relationship-build- ing and partnerships, with honesty and integrity, I’m proud to have led Mor- row County to a number of significant successes. Improved transparency, accountability and budget management, ensuring your hard-earned tax dollars go towards crucial services— not lining political pockets. Fought relentlessly against pandemic lockdowns to successfully open county services, your schools and local businesses. Brought millions of dollars to fund fairgrounds, supporting 4-H, FFA and critical youth agricultural programs. Obtained funding for our Veterans Services Office. Served as Veterans Services liaison to agencies. Created the county-focused Broad- band Taskforce, which in- creased funding to expand much-needed internet ac- cess. Increased funding/ resources in public safe- ty, mental and behavioral health, youth diversion. Funded infrastructure for cities, and brought in grants for homebuyers, focusing on housing and improved ability. We have a responsi- bility to build upon the gen- erations that came before us to create a thriving, viable county for generations to come. Vote no on recall— reject the divisive silencing elitism that is turning us against one another. Keep Morrow County the won- derful community it is to live, work and play. Honoring all who served Veterans Day Local Investment. Jobs. Clean Energy.
