RESPONSIBLE BUDGETING
John is accustomed to finding government waste in our state agencies. He believes the public is tired of being played with in “budget games.” He will engage in open, honest dialogue and prioritize core items first.
There is a classic game that government plays to protect itself and grow over time - it is the practice of taking core services the public wants, and funding them last in order to drive up demand to pass taxes and fees.
In Oregon, the public sees this most egregiously with K-12 classroom dollars, as well as road and bridge maintenance funding… but it is prone to happening anywhere. John will aim to fund core county services first - and then we can have an intelligent debate about extras with funds left over.
PUBLIC SAFETY
Clean and safe neighborhoods are John’s top priority.
Polk County Sheriff’s deputies, credible nonprofits, and health care providers do work for our communities that are vital. We are facing ever-increasing substance abuse and mental health issues. These add weight to those shouldering the responsibility.
John will make sure our Sheriff’s office has proper staff and equipment. He is a committed supporter of law enforcement.
TRANSPORTATION
Safe and well-maintained roads, bridges and highways are critical.
John has deep experience with state-level transportation policy and aims to use that expertise as Polk County seeks regional transportation solutions.
County road funding and quality should not see any deterioration. On the horizon will be a state legislative conversation about a transportation funding package.
John opposes massive tax increases to “fix” bloated state budgets. He was a leader in the nonpartisan effort to provide Oregonians with a chance to vote on the recent gas, payroll, registration, and title hikes.
AGRICULTURE
Agriculture is the heartbeat of Polk County. It is a primary driver of our local economy, and engrained in our heritage.
Our farmers and foresters deserve encouragement and support from government - not lip service. We need to find ways ease the pressures they face from taxation and overregulation. Right now we have to import timber and produce from overseas that could easily be grown and processed right here - but regulatory overkill has made it unaffordable.
John will always be a strong voice for farming and forestry in Polk County.