At yesterday’s Board of Commissioners meeting, Commissioner John West attempted what I can only describe as a failed effort to intimidate me. He warned me to “be careful,” suggesting that he found some of my emails to him threatening. In response, I felt compelled to share every single email I ever sent to Mr. West with the public. (See images below) This not only proves that my emails were not threatening but also exposes his dishonesty regarding the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. West admitted he reads all his emails, yet he denied any knowledge of the FOIA requests. Additionally, his attempt to scold me only makes him look more culpable, not only in this situation but potentially more so if access had been granted to our investigation into these now-proven allegations.
To Mr. West, I say, “You should have been the careful one.”
I commend Mr. West for his effort to try and make me back down from publicly calling out his corruption, but he will now know that he picked the wrong person to go toe-to-toe with. Had Mr. West adhered to the ethical standards expected of his position, we wouldn’t be in this situation. His attempt to intimidate me has not only backfired but also revealed his failure to follow the code of ethics required of someone elected to serve the public.
During the recent commissioners’ meeting, the question-and-answer portion was recorded and made available for public viewing and listening. I was able to ask my questions, and the answers were provided shortly afterward. Commissioners Baertschiger and Deyoung answered my questions sincerely and truthfully. They seemed unaware of, or did not approve, any payments or contract approvals for Simon Hare. It became clear that these actions were done solely at the discretion of John West, who admitted on record that he approved and paid Mr. Hare without a contract in place. Additionally, Mr. Hare was assigned a government email, despite no other contractor in the history of Josephine County ever receiving such an email, raising even more questions about the true motives behind this secrecy.
Moreover, West’s conduct calls into question the integrity and transparency of the entire county commission. The community deserves to know why a payment was made to Simon Hare without a formal contract or the knowledge and approval of other commissioners. This lack of oversight and accountability is troubling and raises serious concerns about the governance of our county.
The FOIA and BOLI requests, which West claims no knowledge of, are critical tools for maintaining transparency and holding public officials accountable. His denial and subsequent admission of reading all emails point to a disturbing trend of evasion and dishonesty. This behavior is unacceptable for someone in his position and undermines public trust.
It is now more crucial than ever that we demand higher standards from our elected officials. The recall effort for Commissioner West’s seat is not just about one individual; it is about setting a precedent for accountability and ethical governance in our county. The public must remain vigilant and continue to hold their representatives to the highest standards of integrity and transparency.
The public deserves officials who are transparent, ethical, and accountable. Mr. West’s actions have shown he does not meet these standards, and it’s time for change. Given his blatant disregard for ethical conduct, I will begin a recall effort for County Commissioner John West’s seat #1 next week, citing these reasons and more.
If anyone finds any of my emails threatening, please let me know, and I will apologize to Mr. West. Your messages will remain confidential. john@grantspasstribune.com
Together, we can ensure that our county is governed with the transparency, integrity, and accountability it deserves.
