Local elections in Josephine County concluded with clear and decisive results, bringing significant changes across key leadership positions. Voters made their voices heard, electing a new slate of public officials, many of whom ran on promises of change and a focus on local issues. The message was clear: “You get what you vote for,” as several unexpected victories marked this election cycle, reshaping the county’s leadership landscape.
The race for County Commissioner seats saw notable shifts, as Chris Barnett secured Seat 2, defeating Colene Martin. Barnett’s campaign promises voters a fresh approach to county governance, emphasizing transparency and community engagement. In a closely watched contest for Seat 3, Ron Smith emerged victorious over incumbent Pat Fahey, a result that took many by surprise.
At the mayoral level, Clint Sherf defeated incumbent Sarah Bristol to become the new mayor of Grants Pass. Sherf’s win signals a shift in local priorities, as he campaigned on boosting small businesses and increasing public safety measures. Over in Cave Junction, Jesse Dugas was elected mayor, presenting a fresh face in local government with an agenda aimed at revitalizing the city’s economy and improving community resources.
In the race for Josephine County Treasurer, Mark DeYoung’s win over Eve Arce marked another upset. DeYoung, a familiar figure with experience in local finance, campaigned on promises of responsible fiscal management, which he argued would stabilize and strengthen county finances.
City Council elections in Grants Pass also brought changes. Victoria Marshall won the seat for Ward 2, beating Jay Meredith in a closely contested race. Marshall’s approach to affordable housing and sustainability initiatives appeared to resonate with Ward 2 voters. Erich Schloegl ran unopposed and retained his position in Ward 3, while Kathleen Krohn won the Ward 4 seat, expanding the council’s representation with a focus on community-centered decision-making.
While new leadership was welcomed in many areas, one proposal failed to gain traction. The Josephine Veterans Service Office Five-Year Local Option Tax was voted down by nearly 75%, despite the support of veterans’ organizations that cited a need for sustained services. This result leaves the future of local veteran support services uncertain, highlighting the need for alternative funding or community-driven solutions.
The election outcomes indicate a desire for new ideas and approaches within the county’s leadership. For some, the results represent a clean slate, bringing hope for progress on local issues ranging from fiscal management to public safety. For others, the rejection of measures like the veterans’ tax suggests that voters are selective in how they prioritize spending and taxation.
With these changes, the direction Josephine County takes under its new officials will largely depend on the ability of elected leaders to align with voter expectations. Regardless of the specific outcome each voter supported, this election underscores the importance of community engagement and active participation in local government. As these newly elected officials prepare to assume office, only time will reveal whether they fulfill the promises that resonated with voters and shape the future of Josephine County in positive ways.
