As 2024 draws to a close, Josephine County faces a pivotal moment in its governance. The final Board of County Commissioners meeting on December 18 addressed key issues, including community development fees and administrative policy overhauls, while signaling a major transition in leadership. With an entirely new board set to take office in January 2025, residents are both apprehensive and vigilant, particularly after the recall of former Commissioner John West, whose tenure was marred by ethical concerns and public dissatisfaction.
One of the central topics during the meeting was the contentious proposal to eliminate certain community development fees implemented eight years ago. These fees currently generate about $134,000 annually, helping to cover administrative expenses and fund code enforcement.
Community Development Director Mark Stevenson warned against eliminating the fees, emphasizing their role in maintaining essential services. “Our building department operates on a very slim surplus of $22,000,” he stated. “These fees are vital for covering costs like state-mandated education and ongoing code enforcement.”
The proposal sparked mixed reactions from the public. Some residents questioned the financial impact on taxpayers, suggesting that a thorough review of departmental expenses might identify alternative solutions. Others supported the elimination of the fees, arguing that they place undue burden on citizens.
Outgoing Commissioner Herman Baertschiger Jr. highlighted the complexities of navigating Oregon’s strict statutes, which require fees to directly correspond to service costs. “We’re bound by laws that limit what we can charge,” Baertschiger explained. Ultimately, the board deferred its decision, agreeing that more evaluation was needed to strike a balance between operational funding and public affordability.
In addition to fee discussions, the board approved a comprehensive update to the county’s administrative and personnel policies—a process led by county staff over the past year. Sandy Novak noted that many policies dated back decades and were overdue for modernization.
“This effort ensures that our policies align with current legal standards and best practices,” Novak said. She also acknowledged union concerns about specific provisions, such as timekeeping requirements, and assured stakeholders that adjustments would be made as necessary.
The updated policies, designed to enhance efficiency and compliance, will take effect immediately, though further refinements are expected as feedback continues.
The meeting marked the end of an era for outgoing commissioners, including Baertschiger, who delivered a heartfelt farewell. “Serving Josephine County has been an honor,” he said. “I’ve always tried to put the citizens first, and I wish the incoming board success in tackling the challenges ahead.”
With the departure of seasoned leadership, the incoming commissioners, Chris Barnett and Ron Smith, face high expectations. Both are political newcomers with no prior experience in governance, a fact that has left many residents feeling uneasy about the county’s future. Following the recall of John West, the public has made it clear that accountability and ethical governance are non-negotiable.
“We’re watching,” said one local resident. “If they stray from their responsibilities or make serious mistakes, we’ll hold them accountable just like we did before.”
The new Board of County Commissioners will convene its first session on January 3, 2025, stepping into roles under intense public scrutiny. Among their immediate priorities will be revisiting the unresolved community development fees, addressing operational challenges under the new administrative policies, and building trust with a wary electorate.
As Josephine County embarks on this leadership transition, the community remains engaged, ready to ensure that the next chapter is marked by transparency, ethical practices, and progress.
