For decades, various citizen groups have attempted to establish a Fire District to serve the area currently designated as unprotected or underserved. This area lies outside the City of Grants Pass and extends to the borders of four already-established Fire Districts. Over the years, coverage has been provided by Rural Metro and, at times, by a few sub-par fire service companies.
Last year, the County Commissioners officially formed a Fire District to encompass this region. As a result, a Fire Board is now set to be established through the upcoming election. Three candidates are running unopposed, while two positions have two candidates each. The three unopposed candidates all have strong fire service backgrounds and are well-suited to ensure that residents receive high-quality fire protection.
As for the two contested positions, I believe it’s important they be filled by individuals who offer different perspectives and skill sets. A strong board should consist of a well-rounded team capable of providing the community with balanced, effective representation.
For Positions 4 and 5, the ballot includes two individuals with backgrounds in wildland and structural fire service. While their experience would certainly add value to the board, I believe their expertise is already well represented by the three unopposed candidates. To create a more balanced and comprehensive board, I am supporting candidates who bring other essential skills to the table.
With the needs of the broader community in mind, I respectfully endorse Michael Grant and Candy Rosenberg for these positions. Their professional backgrounds will bring diversity, insight, and the administrative strengths necessary to complement the fire service experience already on the board.
I hope you will join me in voting for a balanced, capable Fire Board that truly reflects the needs of our entire community.
Sincerely,
Mark Jones
Candidate, Fire Board Position #2 (Uncontested)