Josephine County Commissioner John West is currently embroiled in a heated recall effort, which he has publicly dismissed as unfounded. However, West’s denials and counterclaims have sparked controversy, with many accusing him of misleading the public.
During a recent radio show hosted by Bill Meyer, Commissioner West took the opportunity to address the recall petition. West claimed that the petition’s allegations were “fabricated” and “misleading,” suggesting that the accusations were politically motivated rather than based on legitimate concerns. However, his statements have been met with skepticism, with critics arguing that West is deliberately downplaying the seriousness of the charges against him.
Before West appeared on the show, Holli Morton, a staunch supporter and Chair of the Josephine County Republican Party, called in to defend him. Morton passionately argued that the recall was merely a political maneuver, but her remarks seemed more like an attempt to shield West from accountability. She portrayed West as a “businessman” making tough but necessary decisions, such as cutting county staff to address financial issues. However, the tone of her defense suggested a willingness to overlook the concerns of those who believe West’s actions are harming the county.
When West joined the discussion, he continued to dismiss the allegations against him as baseless. He specifically addressed concerns related to the Pipe Fork property, but critics pointed out that West failed to disclose his own ownership of adjacent land that could benefit from his decisions. His attempts to distance himself from these conflicts of interest have been met with growing distrust among residents.
West also attempted to minimize the impact of numerous ethics complaints filed against him, claiming that most had been dismissed and that he had no knowledge of any campaign violations. However, his evasive answers have done little to reassure those who believe he is dodging accountability.
The conversation touched on West’s management style and budgetary choices, including his controversial decision to combine the IT Director and Emergency Management Director roles. West defended the qualifications of Michael Sellers, the appointee to this dual role, but failed to address allegations that Sellers and his wife are receiving payments from multiple county, and state agencies raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest and misuse of funds.
West’s comments on the Josephine County Library District and the Firewise program were similarly met with skepticism. He attempted to clarify residents’ rights to opt out of the library district and justified cutting a city position from the Firewise program to extend its funding. However, critics argue that his explanations are incomplete and that his decisions are driven more by political expediency than by a genuine concern for the community.
Throughout the radio interview, West reiterated his commitment to transparency and open communication, yet his actions tell a different story. Despite claiming to be available to address concerns, West has reportedly ignored multiple requests for comment from the public and the press, raising questions about his true willingness to engage with constituents.
West also hinted at personal tensions with fellow Commissioner Lily Morgan, accusing her of undermining his efforts. However, his own history, including a past bankruptcy that he conveniently omitted from his campaign narrative, casts doubt on his credibility and integrity.
As the recall effort gains momentum, the citizens of Josephine County face a critical decision. West’s tenure has been marked by questionable decisions and allegations of ethical violations, leading many to question whether he is fit to continue in office. With the potential cost of a special election looming, residents must weigh the price of West’s leadership against the long-term impact on the community.
