(Josephine County, Oregon) – A recent investigation by the Grants Pass Tribune has uncovered allegations suggesting longstanding collusion between two prominent Josephine County commissioners, John West and former commissioner Simon Hare. Allegations of secret meetings and hidden dealings between incumbent County Commissioner John West and former Commissioner Simon Hare have ignited a firestorm of controversy. The accusations, brought to light by the Grants Pass Tribune, suggest a pattern of clandestine activities that violate the public trust and potentially breach legal obligations.
Behind Closed Doors: A History of Secrecy
The relationship between West and Hare appears to extend beyond the confines of public governance, with our investigations uncovering years of undisclosed interactions. What remains troubling is the apparent absence of any recorded meetings or public knowledge of these exchanges—fundamental aspects of democratic governance that both commissioners have sworn to uphold. Simon Hare’s controversial past, marked by a legacy of questionable decisions and allegations, casts a shadow over these recent developments, amplifying concerns about ethical conduct within the county’s leadership. The investigation suggests that these meetings were not merely informal exchanges but may have involved decisions affecting public policy, resource allocation, and economic development without proper authorization or public voting.
According to sources close to the investigation, John West and Simon Hare have been holding undisclosed meetings for years, bypassing public scrutiny and official records. This clandestine behavior appears to contradict John West’s oath as an elected official, violating the fundamental principles of accountability and transparency that underpin public office.
Scrutiny and Community Disconnect
For residents of Josephine County, these accusations resonate with a broader sentiment of frustration and disillusionment. Both West and Hare have faced scrutiny in the past for decisions perceived as disconnected from community needs and input. The lack of transparent decision-making, coupled with allegations of unauthorized actions such as questionable hiring practices and recent financial transactions without proper documentation, further erodes public confidence.
Project Delays and Allegations of Favors
The contentious Pipe Fork Project and the delayed AMR Mining project are focal points of discontent among county residents. Accusations of deliberate delays, deception, and potential conflicts of interest have fueled speculation that these projects may be intertwined with personal interests and past favors exchanged between the commissioners. The implication of enriching themselves through private dealings behind closed doors amplifies the gravity of the accusations.
Attempt to Conceal Information
Our investigation took a dramatic turn when we submitted a formal request under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) seeking access to records related to searches conducted on elected officials’ email accounts within Josephine County. However, the response received from the county raised suspicions, claiming uncertainty about the existence of requested information—a statement that could potentially violate legal statutes governing public records. Moreover, the Board of Commissioners hastily convened a meeting shortly after receiving the FOIA request, prompting concerns that this was an attempt to obstruct transparency and provide cover for potential wrongdoing. The urgency and nature of their response raise red flags, suggesting a deliberate effort to delay, delete, or hide incriminating evidence—an action reminiscent of high-profile cases involving federal officials.
Legal Precedent and Consequences
Previous legal cases involving Oregon cities that failed to comply with public records requests underscores the seriousness of the situation. The outcomes of these cases highlight the legal responsibilities incumbent upon public agencies, including the retention and accessibility of official communications. Failure to adhere to these obligations, as demonstrated by historical legal precedents, carries significant legal and reputational consequences. Notable court cases, such as City of Lebanon v. POET and Gannon v. City of Gold Beach, serve as cautionary tales, highlighting the repercussions of failing to adhere to legal obligations regarding public records. These cases underscore the importance of transparency and accountability in government operations, principles that seem to be at risk in Josephine County.
The Fight for Transparency
GPT’s recent actions, filing a formal request under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to access records related to searches on elected officials’ email accounts, reflect a crucial step towards accountability. However, the response from county authorities has been less than reassuring. The acknowledgment of the request was clouded by uncertainty regarding the availability of requested information—a stance that, if true, would contravene multiple statutory obligations regarding public records.
The Path Forward: Accountability and Reform
As the clock ticks on GPT’s ultimatum for compliance, the community awaits the county’s response. The threat of involving federal agencies like the FBI underscores the gravity of the situation and the stakes involved. Beyond the immediate demands for transparency, this controversy serves as a rallying cry for broader reforms to ensure accountability and restore public trust in Josephine County’s governance. The unfolding saga of John West and Simon Hare shines a spotlight on the vital importance of the need for transparency and integrity in local government. The accusations, if proven true, would not only mark a breach of public trust but also a failure to uphold the fundamental principles of democratic governance. As Josephine County continues to deal with these revelations, the pursuit of accountability and reform must remain paramount to safeguard the interests of the community and preserve the integrity of local governance for future generations of Josephine County.
