GRANTS PASS, OR — The Josephine County Democrats are set to host their first monthly meeting of the year on Tuesday, January 14, 2024, focusing on a pressing and provocative topic: “Is Our County Government Corrupt?” The meeting, open to the public, will take place at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship building, located at 129 NW “E” Street in Grants Pass. Doors open at 6:30 PM, with the program beginning promptly at 7:00 PM.
This highly anticipated event will feature three guest speakers, each bringing unique perspectives and experiences to the discussion. J.J. Scofield, a former county employee, will share insights based on their time working within the county system. Jay Meredith, a businessman who undertook a project requiring county approval, will provide a private-sector viewpoint. Deb Berg, a local citizen who has utilized the Public Information Act to investigate the inner workings of the county, will discuss findings from her inquiries. Together, these speakers aim to shed light on the workings of the county’s government, raising questions about transparency, accountability, and integrity.
The Josephine County Democrats have framed the meeting as an opportunity to engage residents in exploring the effectiveness and ethics of their local government. Each of the speakers has interacted with elected officials and courthouse staff, forming their own impressions of how the county operates. By sharing their firsthand experiences, the presenters hope to encourage thoughtful dialogue among attendees and foster greater civic engagement.
The event underscores the broader concerns of many local residents who are questioning the efficiency and ethical standards of their county government. It also highlights the role of citizen advocacy and public inquiry in holding elected officials accountable.
For those unable to attend in person, the meeting will be accessible via Zoom. However, pre-registration is required for online attendance. Interested individuals can register through a provided link and will receive a confirmation email with instructions for joining the meeting remotely.
This meeting marks a continuation of the Josephine County Democrats’ commitment to addressing issues that impact the community and to facilitating open dialogue. As the county grapples with challenges related to governance, this discussion may offer valuable insights and potential paths forward.
The Josephine County Democrats welcome all members of the public to join the discussion, whether in-person or online, and to participate in what promises to be an engaging and thought-provoking event.
