Grants Pass Tribune - Sun. June 9, 2024

Nepotism in small town government: an enduring issue

By: Leaf Barret

In the idyllic settings of small towns across America, where community ties run deep and everyone seems to know everyone else, nepotism has quietly taken root, influencing local governance in ways both subtle and overt. From hiring practices to contract awards, the specter of favoritism threatens the very foundations of democratic integrity in these closeknit communities.

Nepotism, the practice of favoring relatives or friends, especially by giving them jobs, has long been a concern in governance. In small towns, this issue is exacerbated by the limited pool of candidates and the close relationships among residents. Local government positions, often seen as low-stakes compared to their state or federal counterparts, are nonetheless crucial to maintaining the everyday functions of society.

One glaring example is the appointment of family members to key administrative roles without proper vetting or competition. This not only undermines merit-based employment but can also lead to inefficiencies and corruption. The lack of transparency and accountability in these practices can erode public trust and compromise the quality of local governance.

Consider the case of a small Midwestern town where the mayor's brother-in-law was appointed as the town's public works director. Despite lacking the necessary qualifications, his familial connection secured him the position. As a result, numerous public works projects faced delays and budget overruns, affecting the town's infrastructure and public services.

In another town, a council member's daughter was hired as the town clerk, bypassing several more qualified candidates. This led to administrative mishaps, including mishandling of public records and failure to comply with state regulations, which further strained the town's resources and reputation.

Nepotism not only raises ethical concerns but also legal

ones. Many states have laws in place to prevent conflicts of interest and ensure fair hiring practices. However, enforcement can be lax, particularly in smaller municipalities where oversight is minimal, or they the very same elected officials conspire to hide and conceal all of their crimes from the public together, from the top to the bottom.

The ethical implications are equally significant. Public officials are expected to serve their constituents impartially and with integrity. Nepotism undermines this principle, breeding cynicism and disillusionment among residents. It can also stifle diversity and innovation, as positions of power and influence become hereditary rather than earned through merit

and hard work.

An intriguing aspect of the interplay between personal relationships and political careers is the legal protection afforded to spouses under certain circumstances. In the legal realm, the spousal testimonial privilege prevents one spouse from being compelled to testify against the other in criminal cases. This privilege can have profound implications in political scandals or corruption cases.

For instance, if a politician is married, their spouse cannot be forced to testify against them, potentially safeguarding the politician from incriminating testimony. This legal shield does not extend to unmarried partners or other close associates. Therefore, an unmarried individual involved in a politician's affairs can be compelled to testify, potentially leading to significant political and personal repercussions.

In small town politics, where personal and professional lives are often intertwined, these legal nuances can have dramatic effects. A married politician involved in nepotism or corruption might escape unscathed if their spouse's testimony is crucial to the case. Conversely, an unmarried colleague or partner could be compelled to provide damaging evidence, potentially ending the politician's career and leading to criminal charges.

This dichotomy underscores the importance of robust ethical standards and legal frameworks in small town governance. Ensuring transparency, accountability, and fairness in local government is paramount to maintaining public trust and the effective functioning of democratic institutions.

Nepotism remains a persistent challenge in small town government, undermining the principles of meritocracy and fairness. While the close-knit nature of these communities can facilitate efficient governance, it can also foster favoritism and corruption. Addressing these issues requires a commitment to ethical standards, legal enforcement, and public accountability.

Relentless Heroes hosts 11th annual golf tournament to support Southern Oregon veterans

By: Chris Hennings

The nonprofit organization Relentless Heroes is set to host its 11th annual golf tournament at the Grants Pass Golf Course on September 21, 2024. This event marks a significant effort by the community to rally support and raise funds for Southern Oregon veterans.

Relentless Heroes, known for its dedication to aiding veterans, has established this golf tournament as its primary fundraising activity. The funds raised from this event are crucial in supporting various programs and services that benefit veterans in the region. The organization seeks to foster a sense of community and provide positive role models through their efforts.

The tournament promises a day of camaraderie, competition, and community spirit. Participants and attendees alike will have the opportunity to enjoy a day on the greens while contributing to a noble cause. The event will also feature various activities and opportunities for donors to engage with the veterans and the organization.

Eric Hennings, a key organizer, encourages local businesses and community members to contribute to the event.

"We are seeking donations to help make this possible and to continue being positive role models in our community," he said. Interested parties can reach out to Eric Hennings

at 541-659-6136 or via email at relentlessheroes97526@ gmail.com for more information on how to support the event. Chris Hennings and Joe Krull are also available for contact regarding any inquiries. Chris can be reached at 541601-0750 and Joe at 541-659-1061. Additional details about the event and the organization can be found on their

website at www.relentlessheroes.org.

Relentless Heroes extends its gratitude to all supporters and participants in advance, recognizing that their contributions are vital to the success of this event and the ongoing support of local veterans. Thank you for your support! Website: www.relentlessheroes.org

POLITICS

Josephine County budget committee finalizes budget amid controversy

By: Concerned Citizen of Joesphine County

In a contentious meeting last week, the Josephine County Budget Committee finalized the county's budget, with a significant and controversial decision to cut all general fund support for public health and reallocate it to the Sheriff’s Office. Commissioner Herman Baertschiger initiated the motion, claiming that this reallocation would result in the loss of only one full-time equivalent (FTE) position. However, this assertion has been called into question by local public health officials.

The $160,000 in question is not merely for staffing but is crucial for fulfilling a variety of state grants. Without this funding,

the county stands to lose an entire series of grants, which would result in the closure of several public health programs and the elimination of multiple positions. Public Health Director Mike Weber expressed deep concern over the potential ramifications, emphasizing that the impact is far greater than Commissioner Baertschiger suggested.

“This decision jeopardizes vital public health services,” Weber stated. “The $160,000 is leveraged to secure significant grant funding that supports a wide range of health programs. Cutting this support endangers our ability to provide essential services to the community.”

Critics argue that Commissioner Baertschiger, having served through three previous budget cycles and acting as the liaison to public health, was fully aware of the broader consequences. Some speculate that the move was retaliatory, citing a recent complaint filed against Baertschiger by the Public Health Director with the Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI). The timing and nature of the budget cut have raised suspicions of underlying motives.

“If it were solely about funding the Sheriff’s Office, there would have been no need to misrepresent the impact of these cuts,” one concerned resident remarked. “The mislead-

ing statement about the loss of just one position suggests there’s more to this decision than meets the eye.”

The Sheriff’s Office, while acknowledging the need for increased funding, has not publicly commented on the specifics of the budget reallocation or the allegations surrounding it.

For a comprehensive understanding of the full impact of this budgetary decision, Mike Weber, the Public Health Director, is available for further details. He can provide insight into how the loss of funding will affect the county’s public health programs and the broader implications for the community.

Asante names Brandon Mencini as CEO of two Southern Oregon hospitals

Source: Asante Healthcare

Medford, OR - Asante has announced the appointment of Brandon Mencini as the new CEO of Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center and Asante Ashland Community Hospital. Mencini, an experienced healthcare executive, is set to start his role on July 22.

"Brandon comes to us with a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record in serving communities similar to ours in Southern Oregon. As an energetic and dynamic healthcare leader, he is the ideal leader for our hospitals in Medford and Ashland, bringing a reputation for leading high-quality organizations. We are confident his passion for employee, provider, and community engagement will further Asante's mission," said Tom Gessel, President and CEO of Asante.

Mencini's extensive background spans urban, rural, and community hospital settings. He began his healthcare career as an emergency medical technician (EMT) and brings over 20 years of executive leadership experience. Most recently, he served as the CEO of Mercy Hospital in Colorado, a multi-state regional trauma center and not-for-profit hospital. Prior to that, he was the Chief Operating Officer of Chippenham Hospital, a 466-bed Level I trauma and burn center in Richmond, Virginia, part of HCA Healthcare.

Mencini will be relocating to Southern Oregon with his family to take on his new responsibilities at Asante, where his leadership is expected to drive continued excellence in patient care and community engagement.

Applegate River Golf Course to open new RV park on July 1

The Applegate River Golf Course is set to unveil its highly anticipated RV park on July 1, marking a significant expansion for the popular local destination. This new addition aims to offer golf enthusiasts and travelers a convenient and scenic spot to park their recreational vehicles while enjoying the beautiful surroundings and top-notch golfing facilities.

While the golf course has long been a favorite among residents and visitors alike, the introduction of the RV park is expected to attract even more guests, enhancing the overall experience for everyone. "We're excited to finally open our RV park and provide a unique lodging option for our guests," said a representative from the Applegate River Golf Course. "This addition allows us to cater to a broader audience, including those who enjoy the freedom and flexibility of RV travel."

The RV park will feature a range of amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Though details

on costs, specials, and promotions are still forthcoming, the Applegate River Golf Course promises competitive rates and attractive packages to entice both new and returning visitors.

Local community members and travelers can look forward to an official opening ceremony on July 1, where they can explore the new facilities and learn more about what the RV park has to offer. As anticipation builds, residents and visitors are encouraged to stay tuned for updates regarding special promotions and pricing, which will be announced soon.

For those planning a visit to the Applegate River Golf Course, the addition of the RV park provides an excellent opportunity to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of Grants Pass.

Stay informed on the latest news and updates by visiting the Applegate River Golf Course website or following their social media channels.

News desk

Southern Oregon’s

Planner Senior

YOUR RETIREMENT GUIDE TO YOUTHFUL LIVING

Maintaining your home in Southern Oregon Essential tips for year-round care

BY: STEVEN MAJOR

SOUTHERN OREGON, with its stunning landscapes and diverse climate, offers a unique living experience. However, this beauty comes with challenges that homeowners must address to keep their properties in good condition. From wildfire risks to ensuring water quality, maintaining your home in this region requires attention to specific tasks. Here’s a comprehensive guide to essential maintenance practices for Southern Oregon homeowners.

WILDFIRE PREPAREDNESS

Clearing Brush and Creating Defensible Space: Southern Oregon’s hot, dry summers heighten the risk of wildfires. One of the most critical steps homeowners can take is to clear brush and create a defensible space around their properties. The goal is to reduce the amount of flammable vegetation, which can significantly decrease the chance of a wildfire reaching your home.

Clearing Brush: Regularly remove dead plants, leaves, and branches within 30 feet of your home. This reduces the fuel available for fires and can slow their spread.

Creating Defensible Space: Maintain a buffer zone by spacing trees and shrubs at least 10 feet apart. Prune tree branches to a height of 6 to 10 feet to prevent ground fires from climbing into the canopy.

Fire-Resistant Landscaping: Use fire-resistant plants and materials for landscaping. Gravel, stone, and wellirrigated, green lawns can act as barriers to fire spread. Water Quality: Testing and Maintaining Your Well In rural Southern Oregon, many homeowners rely on well water. Ensuring your well is properly maintained is crucial for safe drinking water.

Annual Testing: Test your well water at least once a year for contaminants such as bacteria, nitrates, and arsenic. Changes in taste, odor, or color also warrant

immediate testing.

Well Maintenance: Inspect the well cover, casing, and cap to ensure they are in good condition and properly sealed. A damaged well can allow contaminants to enter the water supply.

Water Treatment Systems: Depending on test results, you may need to install a water treatment system. Options include filtration, UV disinfection, and reverse osmosis to ensure your water meets safety standards.

ROOF AND GUTTER

MAINTENANCE

Southern Oregon’s climate includes heavy rainfall and occasional snow, making roof and gutter maintenance critical to prevent water damage.

Roof Inspection: Check your roof for missing or damaged shingles, especially after storms. Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent leaks and more extensive damage.

Gutter Cleaning: Clean your gutters at least twice a year to prevent clogs. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflow, which can damage your roof, walls, and foundation.

Downspout Maintenance: Ensure downspouts direct water at least 10 feet away from your home’s foundation. Proper drainage helps prevent basement flooding and soil erosion.

HVAC System: Efficient heating and cooling are essential for comfort in Southern Oregon’s varying temperatures. Regular HVAC maintenance can improve performance and extend the life of your system.

Professional Servicing: Schedule annual servicing for your HVAC system. A professional can check for issues, clean components, and ensure optimal operation.

Filter Replacement: Replace HVAC filters every 1-3 months, depending on use and the type of filter. Clean filters improve air quality and system efficiency.

Duct Cleaning: Have your air ducts cleaned

every few years to remove dust, allergens, and other contaminants that can impact indoor air quality and system performance.

PEST CONTROL

Preventing Infestations: The diverse ecosystem of Southern Oregon includes pests that can threaten your home. Preventive measures are key to avoiding infestations.

Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections for signs of pests such as termites, rodents, and ants. Look for droppings, gnaw marks, and nests.

Seal Entry Points: Seal cracks and gaps in your home’s exterior to prevent pests from entering. Pay special attention to areas around windows, doors, and the foundation.

Pest Control Services: Consider professional pest control services for routine inspections and treatments. Professionals can identify and address potential issues before they become severe.

Seasonal Maintenance: A Year-Round Commitment Southern Oregon’s climate demands year-round attention to home maintenance. Here’s a seasonal checklist to help you stay on top of essential tasks: Spring: Inspect and repair roof damage, clean gutters, and test well water.

Summer: Clear brush, create defensible space, and service your HVAC system.

Fall: Clean gutters, inspect your heating system, and prepare for potential winter storms.

Winter: Monitor for ice dams, check for drafts, and ensure proper ventilation.

By following these guidelines, Southern Oregon homeowners can protect their properties from the region’s unique challenges. Regular maintenance not only ensures safety and comfort but also preserves the value and longevity of your home.

YOUR RETIREMENT GUIDE TO YOUTHFUL LIVING Southern Oregon’s

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