Meet the Candidates Hood River County 2023 Special Election
Hood River County Ballots are due soon!
With 16 races, 61 candidates, and a school levy to research, there is much to weigh before the election on May 16th.
But just because we’re not voting in a new president … don’t think this election doesn’t matter.
At times, our community leaders hold immense power and are able to put our communities on the path to success or failure.
To help you select our future community leaders, CCCNews has reached out local candidates to get the inside scoop on who is best suited to serve our communities. In the interest of fairness, all candidates in contested races were given an equal opportunity to respond via email. The candidates with information in this article are the ones who responded to our questionnaire. If information comes in after the deadline, we will update this story with their profiles.
We have made your work easier by breaking up the races into user-friendly categories below. Simply find the race you’re interested in and read to learn more about the candidate.
Election Deadlines
Election Day: May 16th, 2023
Ballots must be postmarked or deposited in an official drop box by 8 p.m. on May 16th, 2023. For more information about the Hood River County Special District Election and drop box locations visit: hoodrivercounty.gov.
Election Turn Out
As of the end of Monday, 5/8/23, Hood River County was at 14.07% turnout with 2,276 ballots returned.
Recent Voter Turn Outs
The May 17th, 2022 Hood River County Primary Election saw a total of 6,555 ballots cast and overall voter turnout was 41.08%.
The May 18th, 2021 Hood River County Special Election saw a total of 3,448 ballots cast and overall voter turnout was 22.09%.
Measures
Hood River County School District Levy Renewal
The levy will help maintain teaching positions, academics and extracurricular programs at the Hood River County School District. The measure renews current local option taxes for $1.25 per $1,000 of assessed value for five years beginning in 2023-2024.
Meet the Candidates
Columbia Gorge Community College
Timothy Arbogast - Position 3
Laura De La Torre - Position 4
OraLee Branch - Poistion 6
Columbia Gorge Education Service District
Susan Nigl - Position 5
Crystal Springs Water District
Larry Brown
James Jans
Michael McCafferty
Hood River County Library District
Travis Chapman
Brian Hackett
Carol Hoffman
Jean Sheppard
Hood River County School District
School Board Position 1 - Katelyn Logan
School Board Position 1 - Chrissy (Chris) Reitz
School Board Position 3 - Joe Correa
School Board Position 3 - Sarah Jensen Roth
School Board Position 3 - Corinda Hankins Elliott
1. Tell us your name, age, and the position you are running for.
Corinda Hankins Elliott, Hood River County School Board: Position #3 Age: 51
2. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
Hi, my name is Corinda Hankins Elliott and I have been on the school board as Director in Position #3 since 2016. I was initially inspired to run because of the way my job and volunteer efforts intersected. I have been a pediatrician in the Gorge for 20 years and am currently working at One Community Health in Hood River. As one of the only pediatricians in this area, I have a unique population of patients/students with a diverse array of both health concerns and educational needs. I have also been an active volunteer in the community and through the school district for the last 20 years from working with PTOs in schools, running Oregon Battle of the Books programs, and coaching robotics teams and youth sports. The intersection of those interests was the school, and the board was a place where I felt I could learn more about how I could help in our community as well as use some of my knowledge to help with all the students of our district. I have always had a particular interest in helping those students who need advocates the most. This is one of the reasons the board’s focus on equity and excellence for Every Student, Every Day is so important to me. I have learned a great deal by being on the board for the last 7 years and I feel that I have been an advocate for all students during my time on the board.
3. What are your relevant skills, education, qualifications, and experience for the position?
I hope to continue to bring knowledge, compassion, and strong work ethic to my role in the school board. I have a background and base of knowledge about youth that benefits my work on the school board. I have worked hard while on the school board to become knowledgeable about school policies, funding, history, and how our school district as well our state educational systems work. I am lucky in that I get to teach residents at One Community Health and so I know the joy that can come from teaching and learning. I feel compassion for our students, teachers, staff, and administration is essential in the job of the school board. It has been a rough few years and looking at how to improve and regain lost opportunities for education through the lenses of empathy and equity are so important. Finally, I will continue to bring a strong work ethic toward all my jobs and committee work I do. This includes the policy committees, curriculum committees, the Levy committee, negotiating team, board chair work, and volunteer work with local schools and PTOs. I will also continue to work diligently to make sure our district continues its efforts to improve communication and transparency.
4. Why do you want this job?
I would like to be reelected to this position because I love our community and our district, and I will continue to dedicate my time in the service of the students of our district. My oldest son is graduating from the district this year and he has had so many amazing opportunities while in our schools. We have been so grateful for the teachers and educators in our district. I would like to continue the work that I have started and make sure every student has access to the opportunities that would make them successful in school whether that be STEM like my son, other Career Technical Training options, Theater, Music, Arts, English, Languages, and Athletics. There are so many things that we are still striving to improve on especially after the pandemic. We are just starting to see an improvement on our reading and math scores again and while it has been slow, I know how hard the district staff and teachers are working to help students recover.
5. What are the 3 main issues facing your district and how do you plan to approach them?
I feel there are several big issues facing our schools currently. Mental health of our students is an issue of primary importance. We have made some progress with the help of getting the Student Investment Account passed that has enabled us to hire counselors/ student support staff to be available in every school. However, there is still more need especially when community mental health access is still lacking. We also need to continue our course on our journey towards equity which is what the strategic plan for the school district is based on. I am very proud of the progress we have made but it is slow, and we need to continue to look at our district through the lens of equity to make sure that all students including those in minority groups as well as students with disabilities are getting the education, they need to be successful in their futures. We need continue the effort to close gaps in testing and graduation while maintaining strong and challenging curriculum for all students.
School Board Position 5 - David Stuben
School Board Position 5 - Brenda Bounds
1. Tell us your name, age, and the position you are running for.
Brenda Bounds, 49 years old and I’m running for School Board Position #5 In the Hood River Valley.
2. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I am a Native to Mount Hood Parkdale, Oregon. My family were some of the first homesteaders in the Hood River Valley. They helped with the very first school, which was built in the late 1800s. I am a small, local business owner (17 years) . My husband and I started our excavation business in 2006. We have had the opportunity to work with lots of people and other businesses in our community.
3. What are your relevant skills, education, qualifications, and experience for the position?
I graduated in the Class of 1998 from Oregon Health Science University (OHSU) with a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (RN BSN). I have worked in the healthcare industry from the Medical Surgical/Transplant Units to Local Nursing Homes. My children have been in the Public School system in Hood River Valley K-12 grade. I am currently on the HRCSD Budget Committee and Volunteer for the SMART reading program at Parkdale Elementary School.
4. Why do you want this job?
I have been looking at this position since 2020. Since the lockdowns from Covid and seeing the detrimental effects it has had on our children (mentally, emotionally and physically) I wanted to be part of the solution and to help bring back transparency. Hood River schools were the last schools in Oregon to re-open. The push of ideologies and political stances in classrooms were eye opening. I was under the impression that teaching was to be neutral or both sides of the subject were to be presented. That was not the case. Critical Race Theory is being taught. It was boasted by the school board that parents were part of the process of choosing curriculum. However, from my experience, I have never once been notified or invited to participate. Parents are an integral part of a child’s learning and development, but on many occasions they are being left out.
5. What are the 3 main issues facing your district and how do you plan to approach them?
The main concern is that classes on average at HRV are at 50% or less of the expected competency or grade level. This is in Reading, Math and Science. The Schools’ focus needs to return to the basics of learning and to help teachers as much as needed. Getting rid of Common Core Math and teaching more Phonics in Reading would provide a better foundation of future learning. Also, invest in more Science programs that promote learning and understanding. The second issue is the atmosphere of the classroom. Some teachings/instructions do not reflect the moral views of the students or families. This can cause a great deal of distress and inability to learn in the classroom. We must be “equitable” to all! Teachers are amazing people and have every right to their passionate views. However, it must be reiterated that classrooms are to take a neutral stance on highly sensitive issues that could be offensive and/or hurt the learning ability of the students. Third is, always trying to make sure that the classes are staffed so that the students and teachers can get the help that is needed. We need to take note of which classes need more help, others that could use less help or make use of student aides. We need to be mindful of our children's needs and to the taxpayers that are supporting our schools.
Hood River County Transportation District
Gisela Ayala-Echeverria
John W. Cochran
Patricia Gooch
Gene Jones
Eleazar Reyes II
Tamra Taylor
1. Tell us your name, age, and the position you are running for.
Hood River County Transportation District-Tamra Taylor, 65
2. Tell us a little bit about yourself. (What should people know about you?)
I work for Sodexo School Service at N. Wasco School District as a Director of Nutrition Services. I have worked in food services of some form most of my life- I even work for my high school food service program. I live by myself with a wonderful beagle called Larry.
3. What are your relevant skills, education, qualifications, and experience for the position?
I have served in a Transportation District prior to moving to Hood River. I was elected to the Sunset Empire Transportation District in Clatsop Co. on the coast. I have also served on church boards and volunteered for community events i.e: Astoria Seafood Festival, The Great Columbia Crossing as well as the Warming Center along with events at my church. I have needed bus service for personal transportation but to also bring employees and customers to my place of employment.
4. Why do you want this job?
Serving the community is in my DNA, I grew up in a small town in North Dakota. My mother served as the city judge for 20 years and on the City Library Board. My father served on the local Park Board and many other events. My sisters have also served the community in various positions in their community. The decision to run for my first transportation district came during the time my sisters and I were trying to persuade my 80 yr old mother to use transportation instead of driving herself during winter to her medical appointments. I looked into all her options and then realized the same service was available in my living location. I started talking to local people who depend on the transportation service and some people who were moving out of the area for easier transportation to medical services. Also, while talking with the Superintendent at my school at the time-she brought up that bus transportation was needed for after school events and to help high school students who have jobs.I realized how important transportation is to keep a community viable for the residents. I placed my name on the ballot and was elected.
When I moved to Hood River I checked out the Transportation District. I moved here in October, they had an open seat to which I applied to and was appointed. I want to make Hood River my home and contribute to its livability.
5. What are the 3 main issues facing your district and how do you plan to approach them?
I use CAT and talk to the riders. I will ask the other riders what their issues and ideas are and bring these discussions to the board. Over the last couple of years, transportation has taken a hit with labor and cost as other businesses. I want to support the Director and her team as they move through these issues. I will support more purchases of electric buses and adding the infrastructure needed to operate them. I will support the Director as routes are added or changed as needed to provide for our community.
Hood River Valley Parks and Recreation District
Matthew Althoff
Keir BryertonDebbie Dennis
Brian Hackett
Raul Marquez
Martha R Ortega-Verduzco
Scott Paider
Christy Christopher
1. Tell us your name, age, and the position you are running for.
Christy Christopher, upper 30s, Hood River Valley Parks and Recreation District
2. Tell us a little bit about yourself. (What should people know about you?)
I was born and raised in Hood River (Oak Grove), playing among the orchards and forest as a young child. The opportunities I had in Hood River - both to obtain an excellent education and many other enriching experiences (Girl Scouts, sports, 4H) - motivated me to become a teacher at the beginning of my career. Since then I have also been a small business owner (Lolly Tree Toys), Columbia Gorge STEM Hub Director, and life-long learner. My most cherished role has been as a mom to two young children. My whole family can often be found hiking or running together on local trails.
3. What are your relevant skills, education, qualifications, and experience for the position?
A passion for healthy outlets, especially those that can become lifelong habits (like swimming and hiking). And, an understanding of the importance of all people having access to sports and fitness in childhood.
Experience working with diverse stakeholders and finding solutions we can come together around.
Analytical skills - experience collecting and analyzing data to help ensure we are understanding the community’s opinions.
Finance skills - an ability to understand complex budgets and ask informed questions; several years of experience writing, securing, and managing private and state grants.
Degrees in Policy Analysis (BS), Educational Leadership (MA), and Business (MBA).
The experience being a local who understands the nuances of our county, while also having gained insights from living and working in other places.
4. Why do you want this job?
Running for this position is personal to me. I grew up in Hood River county, in a house my parents built between two orchards and hilly forest; nature was my play space.
Growing up, I was self conscious about my hand-me-down clothes and the bright red birthmark on my face. But one of the factors that helped turn my insecurities to confidence was access to youth sports and trails. I became a soccer player and eventually a top-tier cross country athlete. I ran my way from the trails of Hood River County to being a Division I athlete and Public Policy student at Cornell University.
I’m running today for the kids of our valley and for their families. As someone whose own trajectory was changed by access to fitness, and with three generations of my own family here, I see the many ways that our Parks and Rec District is vital. I hope to contribute the skills I’ve gained over the past many years to continue the good work of the district and help solve challenges that lie ahead.
5. What are the 3 main issues facing your district and how do you plan to approach them?
1. Public Pool Replacement
It's widely known that the Hood River Pool, which is cherished in our community, is in desperate need of replacement. Much of its infrastructure dates to 1948, when it was originally built.
I am dedicated to helping HRVPRD move forward with a pool replacement. This includes understanding what type of upgrade is most desired by the community and figuring out the most feasible, fair way to fund that replacement.
2. Successful Transition of Recreation Offerings
Recreation offerings from beloved School District Community Education were transitioned to Parks and Rec in 2021. This includes youth sports, adult sports, and summer camps.
As a working parent, and someone who greatly benefited from these opportunities as a child, I am dedicated to helping this transition be successful. This involves figuring out which services are most needed, what pricing is appropriate, and creating a financially sustainable plan.
3. Listening & Sharing Information
It's crucial that the public have many opportunities to inform HRVPRD about their needs and opinions. It's also important that the district is regularly sharing information with the public. I will advocate for the following ideas:
Listening: Hosting forums around the Valley; partnering with community organizations that work with different subsets of the community; collecting demographic info in surveys (region of county, race, age, etc.) to make sure overall responses are representative of the whole district; creating easy ways for community members to make suggestions
Information sharing: Easy-to-understand summaries of projects (in English & Spanish); regular updates about projects in the works and their timelines; working with community partners to share news in multiple ways across different subsets of the population
Website: www.christychristopher.com
Mike Howard
1. Tell us your name, age, and the position you are running for.
Mike Howard – 41; Hood River Valley Parks & Recreation Board Seat
2. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m currently employed as the Director of Administration for The Next Door Inc. and work to support the growing needs of families and youth throughout our community. Before taking my current position, I worked similarly to support the community needs with the Hood River Valley Parks and Recreation District as the aquatic center supervisor. My master’s degree in sport and performance psychology and management has allowed me to work to develop goals within teams and maximize achievements for the greater good of all involved. I believe my direct knowledge of what challenges are faced by the parks and rec district will provide me with a solid foundation for aiding in the growth of the district as a whole.
3. What are your relevant skills, education, qualifications, and experience for the position?
My relevant education and experience for this position include:
Education:
*Master’s Degree – Sport & Performance Psychology, Sport Management
*Bachelors Degree – Foreign Language & Psychology
Work experience:
*Director of Administration: The Next Door Inc
*Aquatic Center Supervisor: Hood River Valley Parks & Rec
*Professor – Holy Names University
*Master Resilience Trainer - Performance Expert: U.S. Army
4. Why do you want this job?
After spending 4 years dedicated to the parks and rec district overseeing the daily operations of the aquatic center, I became highly invested in hearing and meeting the needs of those throughout our community. Over that time, I worked hard to navigate the difficulties that COVID presented a public space and ensured that the facilities remained open and safe to the highest degrees possible. I believe that all residents of Hood River County deserve safe, accessible resources that are maintained to a degree that allow us and our children the ability to grow and thrive for generations to come.
5. What are the 3 main issues facing your district and how do you plan to approach them?
I believe that the biggest issues facing our parks and rec district are the detailed and timely securing of safe and accessible resources for our future. Whether that be, 1) navigating the legal processes for obtaining a bond or levy for a new aquatic center, or 2) ensuring that our parks and trails systems are maintained to the highest standards, or 3) expanding the youth and summer recreational opportunities offered to fill the gap left by the departure of Community Education, my plan is to help elevate and spread awareness to all of those within our community that will expand our future growth and well-being.
I hope to bring a continued sense of listening, understanding, and accountability to the Hood River Valley Parks and Rec District. It’s imperative that we actively listen to the needs of our residents in HRC and take timely action based upon those voices. The district’s current and future resources have been secured for our wellbeing, and without understanding or addressing the impact of their accessibility for everyone, we do a disservice as stewards of those resources. That’s why I aim to bring accountability to the district by ensuring that equitable access and progress are provided to everyone in our community.
Ice Fountain Water District
Loran Ayles
Brad Fowler
Mark Russell
Mt Hood Community College
Position 6 - Diane Noriega
Position 7 - Shatoyia Bentley
Odell Sanitary District
Richard D. Sohler
Parkdale Rural Fire Protection District
Steven Short
Andrew Snyder
Jeanne Sreenan
Vince Wilson
Parkdale Sanitary District
Ellisa Fellows
Port of Cascade Locks
Commissioner Position 1 - Carrie Klute
Commissioner Position 1 - John Stipan
1. Tell us your name, age, and the position you are running for.
John Stipan, 62 year old, Position # 1, Port Commissioner for the Port of Cascade Locks.
2. Tell us a little bit about yourself.
In 2010 I came to Cascade Locks to help Heart of the Gorge Bronze build the Sacajawea. I’ve enjoyed working with bronze since 1978. When it was unveiled here in our Marine Park, a double rainbow appeared over it. I live here in Cascade Locks and believe with my whole heart that I wouldn’t want to live and work anywhere else. I’ve hiked the gorge since 1983 (even taking lunch underneath Multnomah Falls back then). I love hiking and kayaking. If you run into me on the trail, I’m the guy playing guitar and singing songs that I’ve written. As a Cascade Locks Historical Museum board member, I enjoy painting pictures and donating them at fund raisers. I write poetry. I can recite several by heart. I am in Cascade Locks to encourage others to continue their education on a daily basis. I’m blessed with singing talent, singing during the Holidays, carols to light the Toll Bridge Park at the Bridge of the Gods, singing in City Hall for the lighting of the Christmas Tree, walking down Wa Na Pa Street during Halloween dressed in costume playing my guitar! Currently I’m blessed working here in Cascade Locks with disabled children.
3. What are your relevant skills, education, qualifications, and experience for the position?
I am grateful for the skill of listening. I value each person’s opinions (and I see value in each person), especially approving when we learn enough to be leaders in our community. My education comes with a college degree, Bachelor of Arts. I have years of experience working as an electrician, before college, and after college I came from Chicago to Portland for a week of vacation. This vacation turned into 40 years working with people, teaching sculpture, painting, pencil drawing, pastels, ceramics, working as a delivery agent, freight forwarder, working as a flight attendant with the airlines, Alaska Air Group, and freight at PDX with American Airlines, even driving an ambulance for Life flight. I’ve worked at many bronze foundries, learning every facet, and I still contribute as many artists know me and appreciate the professionalism that I bring to their artwork, creating museum quality pieces. Here in Cascade Locks I enjoyed bringing my own brand of enthusiasm while working with the City of Cascade Locks Public Works Dept., and with the Best Western. I’ve spent the last four years working with 16 to 24 year olds using trauma informed care at Job Corps as Senior Residential Advisor and Center Duty Officer. My life is about making a positive difference in the lives of others. Working with all types of people has set me on this Port Commission for eight years. I listen, learn, and lead, and love right here in Cascade Locks, helping others every day. When people bring me problems, I encourage them to bring me solutions to those problems. Together, surrounding ourselves with positive thinking people, we find solutions.
4. Why do you want this job?
I want to continue working with the great Staff at the Port of Cascade Locks, that’s why! We provide personal nutrients to each person that steps into Marine Park, each person that hopes to create a business with the Port when they come to town seeking & discovering opportunities here. The possibilities are endless as we create jobs that benefit our community. The Port offers many opportunities and I challenge everyone to maximize these opportunities. That’s the return I look for as a Port Commissioner. People don’t often remember what you said, but they remember how you made them feel. I want to continue as Port Commissioner because I want Cascade Locks to have a leader they can trust.
5. What are the 3 main issues facing your district and how do you plan to approach them?
Filling an empty building comes first, working with Port Staff to brainstorm practical solutions. Contacting interested parties, following up with enthusiasm, and positive influence. Floating the Sternwheeler, same ideas, working with Staff, finding solutions quickly to provide a wonderful tourism experience. Creating jobs in town, working on lease agreements and solidifying the Port Commission with compassion & empathy. Together, I welcome everyone and anyone that wants to improve the living conditions in Cascade Locks, providing a safe environment, and greeting each other with peace.
Commissioner Position 2 - Brenda Lee Cramblet
Commissioner Position 2 - Brad Lorang
Commissioner Position 3 - Dean Bump
Commissioner Position 3 - Albert Nance
Port of Hood River
Commissioner Position 4 - Kristi Chapman
Port of Hood River Commissioner Position 5 - Jim Klaas
1. Tell us your name, age, and the position you are running for.
Jim Klaas
Position #5 Hood River Port Commissioner
2. Tell us a little bit about yourself. (What should people know about you?)
I have lived in Hood River for almost 40 years. I’ve worked in recreational business, emerging tech businesses and was a small business owner. I have a strong sense of community and have volunteered my time coaching youth sports, mentored middle school and high school robotic teams, was a Hood River Lion’s Boy Scout Troop 282 Leader, and on the Eagle Scout board of review. Volunteer Ski Patrol for 14 years in positions including: Patroller, Medical Director and Director.
3. What are your relevant skills, education, qualifications, and experience for the position?
I can bring to this position creative problem solving, board experience, and a local Hood River experience.
4. Why do you want this job?
The Hood River Port is at a crossroads. The Port will have a major impact on the future livability and economic growth of the Gorge. I would like the opportunity to help chart the Port’s future and continue to build on its current success.
5. What are the 3 main issues facing The Hood River Port district and how do you plan to approach them?
1. Bridge Replacement is the highest priority of the Port and will remain the highest priority until the bridge is replaced.
2. Operating expenses for the port waterfront recreation areas and the Ken Jernstedt Airport.
3. The port is working on plans to develop waterfront lots 1 and 900. The commission will need to set development goals to meet the port’s mission of livability and economic development while also looking at he highest and best use of those parcels.
Port of Hood River Commissioner Position 5 - Tor Bieker
1. Tell us your name, age, and the position you are running for.
Hi, my name is Tor Bieker, age 50, running for Hood River Port Commissioner Position #5.
2. Tell us a little bit about yourself. (What should people know about you?)
I’ve surprised myself a little bit by running for this position, as I’m not usually interested in politics. But the Port of Hood River is facing unique and interesting challenges right now, and I discovered that I’m passionate about solving those problems and helping the Port serve our community here in the Gorge.
3. What are your relevant skills, education, qualifications, and experience for the position?
I have degrees in biochemistry and philosophy, and taught undergraduates while in graduate school. Academia didn’t turn out to be the right career for me, and I decided to take on the work of being a stay at home dad. I also homeschooled my two girls up to high school. Over the years I have volunteered with a variety of educational non profits. I currently run my own flight instruction business (as a certified flight instructor and commercial pilot). My diverse background has prepared me especially well for critical problem solving.
For over three years I have volunteered on the Port of Hood River’s Airport Advisory Committee, and currently serve as the Vice Chairperson. On this committee, I have both performed research on airport operations and engaged in community outreach. I have worked closely with Port employees as well - all towards the Port of Hood River’s twin goals of 1. Stimulating the economy and 2. Improving quality of life.
4. Why do you want this job?
I want the job because I believe I can make a positive difference, and that I can bring a different perspective to the Port Commission. To the first point, I have the time available to really dedicate my best effort to the Port’s current challenges, and I am motivated - I won’t lie: it’s largely because I am passionate about the airport. But also because I want to see that new bridge gets built! On the second point, I would bring a useful knowledge of aviation and FAA policy to the Port, as well as contacts at the FAA and elsewhere in the industry. I’ve also worked a diverse collection of jobs in my life: repo man, park ranger, genetic engineer, pilot, teacher, small business owner, stay at home dad. This experience - as well as serving as director of fundraising, treasurer, and president for different nonprofits - has equipped me with a useful tool set for finding and effecting creative solutions.
5. What are the 3 main issues facing your district and how do you plan to approach them?
Let’s go from most specific to most general, with respect to challenges facing the Port. First, there is the looming question of the new bridge. How fast can we get it built (safely)? This is exciting. Governmental organizations often move very slowly. This is a real problem with respect to the bridge. If we don’t move fast enough, we will end up spending many millions to maintain the existing bridge. I’d prefer those millions to go to the new bridge, but for that to happen, we need to do everything we can to accelerate the process. Once the bridge shifts beyond the purview of the Port, the Port’s challenge becomes sustainability: we need to ensure that the Port is operated in a lean and clever manner. I suspect I’m more of a fiscal hawk than most current commissioners, and I look forward to finding ways to “do more, with less”. The third challenge, or issue, has to do with the Port’s mission. What is the purpose of the Port of Hood River? And how should the Port be constituted to accomplish that mission? I’m not afraid to experiment with methods, or re-envision the Port itself.
My overall approach to the problems facing the Port is two pronged: 1. To be an enabler. The work of the Port is accomplished by its employees, and I believe an important role of commissioners is removing obstacles. 2. Talking to people. Port commissioners are uniquely positioned to gather community input and use that input to guide the Port. The Port exists to serve the community, and a key role of commissioners is to represent that community.
Westside Rural Fire Protection District
Mark Beam
John W. Beeman
Trevor Cooper
Paul Henke
Willie Ishiaka
Ed Weathers
Wy’East Rural Fire Protection District
Chad Muenzer
Larry Packer
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