Through confidential sources, recent developments within Josephine County have revealed that former County Commissioner Simon Gabriel Hare has quietly reentered the county’s payroll, now drawing a monthly income of $2,500. This move, however, has stirred significant controversy, as it lacks both a formal contract and approval from the Board of Commissioners. The lack of transparency surrounding Hare’s re-engagement has raised serious concerns about potential abuses of power within the county’s administration.
Simon Hare’s name is not new to controversy. Previously, he was contracted for consulting services at a rate of $1,600 per month without an approved contract and paid $3,200 that we’re aware of. This arrangement, while allowed under the radar of reported dollar amounts requiring board approval, drew criticism from those who believed his close ties to county leadership allowed him to benefit unduly from his former position.
Now, Hare’s payment has increased by nearly 60%, yet there is no documented contract or board approval to justify this raise. For what services, exactly, is he being paid? Broadband consulting? Something he knows nothing about and has no qualifications for. This development follows closely on the heels of a contentious decision by the county commissioners to grant Sandy Novak, the County Finance Officer, full control over the treasury and financial matters of Josephine County. Critics argue that the expanded powers granted to Novak were the first step in enabling questionable financial practices, such as Hare’s unexplained reentry onto the payroll.
Sandy Novak’s newfound authority has raised alarms across the county. Critics argue that by consolidating financial control in her hands, the county has created an environment ripe for corruption. With the ability to create and delete invoices without leaving a paper trail, Novak holds unprecedented power over the county’s financial records.
“Without transparency, there is no accountability,” said a concerned resident who wished to remain anonymous for fear of reprisal and attacks from the current cabal in office. “When one person has the ability to manipulate financial records without oversight, it undermines the entire system of checks and balances that are supposed to protect taxpayer dollars.”
This situation echoes the fears expressed by many when Novak was first granted these powers. The possibility that financial decisions, like Hare’s unexplained payments, could be concealed or manipulated is now seen as a direct consequence of this decision.
The reappearance of Simon Hare on the county payroll has reignited suspicions of backdoor deals and political favors. Many are now pointing fingers at County Commissioner John West, accusing him of repaying Hare for past deals made during his time as commissioner. These accusations paint a picture of a “prince and the pauper” scenario, with West playing the part of a leader returning favors to his political allies.
This situation is not without precedent. During Hare’s tenure as commissioner, there were whispers of preferential treatment and insider dealings. The current arrangement, with Hare receiving payment without proper documentation or board oversight, is seen by many as a continuation of these practices.
The revelation of Hare’s payments has intensified calls for greater oversight and transparency in Josephine County’s government. A recall effort against John West has gained momentum, with many citing his role in enabling these financial arrangements as a key reason for the push.
“This is exactly the type of corruption we feared when West was elected,” said one recall advocate. “He and his allies are doing whatever they want, ignoring the will of the people, and using taxpayer dollars to reward their friends. It has to stop.”
The recall effort, which initially gained traction over concerns about West’s handling of county issues, has now become a rallying cry for those demanding greater transparency and accountability in county governance.
The situation in Josephine County underscores the importance of checks and balances in local government. Without proper oversight, the potential for corruption and abuse of power increases significantly. The lack of a contract for Simon Hare and the secrecy surrounding his payments are clear examples of this.
As the recall effort against John West gains steam, citizens are calling for immediate reforms to ensure that financial decisions are made transparently and with public input. These reforms include the reestablishment of board oversight for all financial decisions and a thorough audit of the county’s financial records to ensure that no further abuses of power have occurred.
The situation remains fluid, but one thing is clear: the people of Josephine County are no longer willing to sit by as their leaders make decisions behind closed doors. They are demanding accountability, transparency, and an end to the backroom deals that have plagued their government for far too long.
