WEDNESDAY, JULY 16, 2025
$3 Million for Airport Sparks Controversy as Commissioners Prepare Quiet Vote
Runway Loan Proposal
Raises Eyebrows, Public Urged to Attend Thursday Meeting
By John Oliver
The Josephine County Board of Commissioners is poised to approve a controversial $3 million interfund loan from the county’s General Fund—an interest-free transfer set to fund a runway expansion project that has drawn sharp criticism from residents and watchdogs alike. Introduced quietly as Resolution No. 2025033, the proposal has bypassed any meaningful public dialogue, leading many to believe it’s less about public infrastructure and more about Commissioner Andreas Blech cementing his pet project before he potentially faces a recall from office.
At issue is not only the size of the loan but the timing, the priorities, and the complete absence of transparency. The resolution—buried deep in this Thursday’s Weekly Business Session packet—calls for transferring up to $3 million from Fund 10 (General Fund) to Fund 53 (Airport Fund) to finance the capital outlay necessary for the runway project. It states that the money will be repaid by the end of fiscal
2026-27, but provides no clear plan on how or from where that repayment will come. Nor does it mention any community input, feasibility study, or financial impact analysis. Even more unsettling is that the interest rate for this multimillion-dollar loan is set at zero percent, meaning the General Fund—the very same pool used to support public safety, public health, and essential services—will receive nothing in return for lending out the largest discretionary sum currently on the table.
The loan resolution is poised to be voted on at the upcoming Board of Commissioners meeting scheduled for Thursday, July 18, at 10:00 AM at the Anne G. Basker Auditorium.
For many residents, this development feels like déjà vu: a familiar pattern of fiscal maneuvering conducted behind closed doors, far removed from the needs and voices of the people. Over the past year, this board has justified repeated layoffs, department head firings, and budget austerity by claiming the county is “bleeding money.” In the face of these supposed financial shortfalls, how is it suddenly feasible to lend out $3 million—especially to an airport project that has not been identified as a top community priority?
Ceasefire or Face Crushing Sanctions
Trump’s issues 50-Day Ultimatum to Russia
By John Oliver
President Donald Trump has issued a bold ultimatum to the Kremlin: agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine within 50 days or face sweeping economic sanctions, including 100 percent tariffs and secondary penalties on nations continuing to do business with Russia. The announcement, made during a joint appearance with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte at the White House on July 14, signals a dramatic shift in Trump’s posture toward Russian President Vladimir Putin following months of stalled diplomacy and continued military aggression.
The new strategy comes amid escalating pressure on Moscow to end its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, now in its third year. Under the plan, if Russia fails to secure a peace agreement by early September, the United States will implement tariffs on all Russian goods and impose sanctions on foreign countries and companies that maintain trade relations with the Kremlin. Trump stated unequivocally that the penalties would be “very severe,” emphasizing that he was no longer willing to tolerate what he described as “dou-
ble-dealing” from Putin.
In a stark departure from prior aid packages, Trump announced that the U.S. will send advanced defense systems to Ukraine, including Patriot missile batteries and interceptor units. However, he made it clear that this military support will be financed by NATO partners—not American taxpayers. The financial burden of the weapons shipments will be carried by allies including Germany, Canada, Sweden, the Netherlands, and Finland, who have all pledged logistical and financial backing.
Ukraine welcomed the announcement, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stating that the added weaponry would greatly enhance Ukraine’s ability to defend civilian targets from Russian missile attacks. The Ukrainian government confirmed it
would soon receive additional Patriot systems to help fortify cities against longrange assaults.
While some NATO leaders praised the decisive action, others expressed reservations about the 50-day window. Diplomats from several European nations warned that the timeline could allow Russian forces to accelerate offensives in eastern Ukraine—particularly in the Donetsk region—before sanctions take effect. Critics fear that the delay may ultimately benefit Russia militarily, even if it leads to longterm economic consequences.
The Russian response was dismissive. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said parts of Trump’s announcement were being reviewed but characterized the demands as unrealistic. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov called the ultimatum “unacceptable,” while former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev mocked the announcement as “performative.” Despite Moscow’s outward defiance, economic analysts note that Russia’s economy remains fragile under the weight of existing sanctions and that new measures could sharply contract key industries such as energy exports and heavy manufacturing.
Back in Washington, Trump’s move has
Critics of the loan believe the answer lies in Commissioner Andreas Blech, who has long championed the airport expansion. With recall efforts already in discussion against both Blech and fellow Commissioner Chris Barnett, many are calling the move nothing more than a “legacy grab”—a last-minute attempt by Blech to complete his pet project before potentially being removed from office by voters.
“This isn’t just about the money,” said one longtime county resident. “It’s about the fact that they keep telling us they’re broke. They’re slashing services, they’re cutting staff, they’re gutting departments—and then they turn around and push through millions for something like this? Where are the public hearings? Where’s the transparency? This feels like a betrayal.”
And that sentiment is gaining traction. Residents are pointing out the hypocrisy of claiming poverty while greenlighting an interest-free, multimillion-dollar loan for a non-essential infrastructure project. Others are questioning whether the county has the legal or ethical standing to reallocate funds of this magnitude without first soliciting public input.
The resolution does cite Oregon Revised Statute 294.468, which permits interfund loans within local government, but the statute also emphasizes that such loans should be
Behind the Curtain
Commissioner Chris Barnett’s Trail of Lawsuits and Evasion
By John Oliver
Josephine County Commissioner Chris Barnett has spent much of his time in office promoting an image of a principled public servant—one who claims to value transparency, accountability, and support for local residents. But a closer examination of his long legal record reveals a very different story. Beneath the surface of public service lies a pattern of litigation, deflection, and denial—often at the expense of those Barnett claims to represent.
While Commissioner Barnett now serves the people of Josephine County, many of his most revealing legal entanglements took
• see COMMISSIONER, page 3
year
And unless citizens show up in force, the measure may slide through without any serious debate.
Trump Halts All Ukraine Aid, Shifting U.S. Strategy Amid Global Tensions
By John Oliver
In a decisive shift from previous U.S. foreign policy, President Donald Trump has officially ended all military and financial support to Ukraine, declaring that the United States will no longer provide weapons, funding, or humanitarian assistance to the embattled Eastern European nation. The move has sparked immediate international concern and raised questions about America’s role in global conflict zones.
The announcement, confirmed by senior administration officials on Monday, halts billions of dollars in military assistance previously allocated under the Presidential Drawdown Authority. This includes a freeze on surface-to-air missiles, artillery systems, drones, and ammunition shipments that had been critical to Ukraine’s efforts in resisting Russian aggression since 2022.
The decision also terminates financial aid programs administered by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), which had provided support for displaced civilians, emergency housing, medical supplies, and infrastructure repairs throughout war-torn regions of Ukraine.
President Trump defended the policy reversal as a strategic realignment of U.S. priorities. He stated that the United States has shouldered the financial burden of
Ukraine’s defense for too long and that it is now time for European allies to assume full responsibility. In remarks from the White House, Trump described the aid suspension as necessary to “encourage diplomacy” and to prompt a larger role from NATO and the European Union in managing the crisis.
At the center of the administration’s new approach is a 50-day ceasefire ultimatum issued to Russia. The White House has indicated that unless the Kremlin agrees to an immediate and verifiable ceasefire within that period, sweeping economic sanctions will be imposed. These sanctions would not only target Russian assets and industries but would also include tariffs on nations continuing to trade with Moscow, signaling a more aggressive use of American economic leverage.
European leaders have expressed alarm over the sudden withdrawal of U.S. support. Defense ministers from Germany, France, and Poland have called for emergency meetings to evaluate the security implications for the NATO alliance. Several European officials have warned that the decision could embolden Russian military operations in Ukraine and destabilize the region.
Ukrainian officials have responded with cautious optimism regarding the ceasefire
proposal but remain concerned about the immediate impact of losing U.S. support on the battlefield. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s administration has already begun outreach to European partners and private defense contractors in an effort to replace lost supplies.
Back in Washington, the decision has drawn mixed reactions from lawmakers. Some Republican allies have praised the move as fiscally responsible and long overdue, arguing that the United States must prioritize domestic issues over foreign entanglements. Others, including several prominent Democrats and moderate Republicans, have criticized the move as short-sighted and dangerous, warning that it could erode U.S. credibility and encourage further aggression by authoritarian regimes.
The Pentagon has reportedly been instructed to halt all active shipments and review pending contracts related to Ukrainian defense. Meanwhile, USAID offices in Kyiv and surrounding regions have begun shutting down operations, with hundreds of local staff and contractors being laid off or reassigned.
Analysts say the long-term impact of this policy shift remains uncertain. On one hand, it could force a diplomatic break-
through if Russia responds positively to the ceasefire conditions. On the other, it may leave Ukraine vulnerable to renewed offensives at a critical point in the conflict. What is clear is that the United States has taken a dramatic step back from the role it played for more than two years as Ukraine’s principal backer in its war against Russia. As allies scramble to fill the vacuum, the world watches to see whether this marks a turning point in the war—or simply a new phase of uncertainty.
Commissioner Barnett’s Trail of Lawsuits
From page 1
place in Coos County, where he and his wife, Stephanie Barnett, operated a business under the name Barnett Resorts LLC, doing business as Osprey Point RV Resort. Court records show that since 2019, Barnett Resorts has filed or been involved in more than a dozen legal cases—ranging from small claims to contract disputes and a pattern of landlord-tenant evictions. Among the most telling examples is a series of eviction cases brought against a single tenant, Kevin Johnson. Over a short span, Barnett Resorts filed at least four separate eviction suits against Johnson, each time returning to court with renewed attempts to remove him. While landlords are within their rights to pursue legal eviction when warranted, the repeated filings suggest something more systemic—an effort to exhaust and overpower an opponent through procedural pressure.
The Barnetts also brought multiple lawsuits against the homeowners’ association that governs Osprey Point Village, the same planned community where their business operates. These lawsuits, including one still active as of mid-2025, paint a picture of relentless legal combativeness—not cooperative problem-solving.
But the most consequential case involving the Barnetts didn’t originate from business disputes. It came from a civil suit involving allegations of elder abuse and fi-
nancial exploitation—a case that ended with a $3.2 million judgment against both Chris and Stephanie Barnett. The courts found them liable not just through their defunct company, Elkside Development LLC, but personally responsible for the harm caused.
After losing in trial court, the Barnetts appealed. When the Oregon Court of Appeals upheld the judgment, they took the case to the state’s highest court. In early 2025, the Oregon Supreme Court declined to hear it, effectively affirming the lower courts' rulings. That should have ended the matter. But it didn’t.
Instead of accepting the outcome, the Barnetts have continued to file motions in an apparent effort to delay enforcement. On June 30, 2025, they filed a new motion labeled “Procedural Matters – General” under case #25CV38764. While the filing might appear routine to those unfamiliar with civil litigation, legal observers recognize this type of post-judgment maneuvering as a common delay tactic.
In Oregon and across the country, procedural motions like these are often used by losing parties to postpone financial accountability. They do not challenge the judgment itself, but they can stall collection, tie up resources, and frustrate victims. In this case, the court has already determined that the Barnetts personally participated in the exploitation of an elderly victim. And yet,
more than a year after that judgment was affirmed, the Barnetts continue to resist compliance.
What makes this situation especially troubling is the disconnect between Barnett’s public persona and his private conduct. In Josephine County, he speaks of integrity and service. But the legal record reflects repeated attempts to avoid responsibility, target adversaries through litigation, and use the court system as a shield rather than a path to justice.
Even now, Commissioner Barnett publicly insists he is not personally liable, claiming that the damages should fall on his shuttered company. But courts at multiple levels saw through that argument and pierced the corporate veil—a legal standard reserved for cases where individuals misuse business structures to commit wrongful acts. It is a serious and rare ruling, underscoring the gravity of the conduct involved.
The tactics now being employed by the Barnetts—stalling through motions, challenging procedural steps, and refusing to pay court-ordered damages—mirror the same pattern seen in their past business disputes. They do not reflect leadership, nor do they embody the principles of accountability that public office demands.
Commissioner Barnett’s supporters have at times dismissed these concerns as “politically motivated” or “fake news.” But
the facts are public. The lawsuits are documented. The judgments are final. And the legal filings continue.
For the residents of Josephine County, the question is no longer whether Chris Barnett has a troubling legal history. It’s whether that history reflects the values expected of someone elected to represent the people. When an official promotes one version of events in public while a very different truth plays out in courtrooms across the state, trust is undermined.
Commissioner Barnett often speaks about transparency. Yet his actions, from Coos County to Josephine County, suggest something else: a determined effort to control the narrative, bury damaging facts, and delay justice for as long as the legal system will allow.
In public service, words matter—but actions matter more. And when the record shows a consistent effort to silence critics, sue newspapers, delay justice for victims, and mislead constituents about legal responsibility, the image of community-minded leadership begins to collapse.
The legal strategy being employed may buy the Barnetts more time, but it doesn’t change the outcome. The courts have spoken. The judgment stands. And the people of Josephine County are left to decide whether Commissioner Barnett’s record is one of public service—or self-preservation.
Inflation Persists as June CPI Report Reveals Slower Progress Toward Stability
News Desk
The latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, released on July 15, 2025, by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, reveals a modest but notable uptick in inflation across key categories, signaling a slowdown in the progress made over the past year. The report shows that overall consumer prices rose 2.7 percent over the previous 12 months, up from 2.4 percent in May. This marks the highest yearover-year increase since February and puts inflation slightly above where it stood one year ago under the Biden administration.
Core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, also rose by 2.9 percent compared to June 2024, maintaining a steady pace that suggests underlying price pressures remain unresolved. While the Federal Reserve has long targeted a 2 percent inflation rate as a benchmark for economic stability, current figures indicate that the economy is still running warmer than anticipated.
In comparison, CPI data from July 15, 2024, showed headline inflation at 2.9 percent and core inflation at 3.2 percent. At the time, the annual inflation rate was on a consistent downward trend, and there was cautious optimism that monetary policy was effectively reining in price increases. However, over the past twelve months, inflation has
plateaued and in some sectors begun to tick upward once again.
Shelter costs continue to be the largest driver of overall inflation, particularly rent and owners’ equivalent rent, which remain stubbornly high. Energy prices also contributed to the recent increase, with gasoline and electricity costs both rising in June. Though the energy index remains below its level from a year earlier, the monthly gains in June reversed some of the earlier declines seen in 2025.
Food prices increased as well, climbing 0.3 percent for the month and 3 percent year-over-year. Increases were seen across a wide range of grocery categories, placing continued pressure on household budgets.
One of the key new developments influencing recent inflation is the implementation of fresh tariffs on imported goods. The current administration's trade policy has introduced levies on a range of consumer products, including household furnishings, clothing, and electronics. These costs have begun to filter into retail prices, complicating efforts to bring inflation down. Economists warn that these policy changes may continue to exert upward pressure on inflation into the second half of the year. Despite some categories showing inflationary strain, others have offered relief. Prices for used and new vehicles have declined steadily, following post-pandemic supply normalization. Airline fares also dropped in June, contributing to a slight easing
in the broader transportation index.
The Federal Reserve’s response to the latest data has been cautious. While interest rate cuts had been widely anticipated earlier in the year, market expectations have now shifted toward a more prolonged period of policy stability. With inflation still hovering above target, the central bank is expected to delay any rate reductions until the trend clearly reverses.
For American households, the implications are mixed. While inflation is no longer at the crisis levels seen in 2022, the recent CPI report confirms that many everyday expenses remain elevated. Rising shelter, food, and energy costs continue to outpace wage growth in many sectors, leaving working- and middle-class families with little financial breathing room.
As of mid-July 2025, inflation remains lower than it was a year ago but not by a significant margin. The slight cooling in core inflation from last year’s 3.2 percent to today’s 2.9 percent shows progress, but the path toward stable, low inflation remains uncertain. With geopolitical tensions, shifting trade policies, and evolving consumer demand all influencing the economic outlook, policymakers face a delicate balancing act in the months ahead.
Ultimatum to Russia: Ceasefire or Face Sanctions
From page 1
gained bipartisan traction. U.S. senators are already drafting legislation that would authorize tariffs up to 500 percent on any country that continues to buy Russian oil or gas. Lawmakers say the measures are designed to undercut Russia’s revenue streams and force Putin to the negotiating table.
Trump described the initiative as a last chance for diplomacy. “The objective is peace, not punishment,” he said. Still, the president reiterated that without real results from the Kremlin, economic retaliation will be swift and far-reaching. Preparations are already underway in the Treasury and
State Departments to activate enforcement mechanisms should the deadline expire without progress.
With the clock ticking, the international community is watching closely. If Russia fails to act within the 50-day window, the result could be one of the most aggressive
sanctions campaigns in modern history, impacting not just Moscow but any nation choosing to do business with it. Whether the ultimatum brings about the intended ceasefire—or triggers a deeper geopolitical confrontation—will be determined in the weeks ahead
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THE BCC WEEKLY
The
BCC Weekly - Taking the “Blind” out of the BCC
The 6-Month Performance Review
By: Jay Meredith, CPA Investigative Journalist
The three new members of the Josephine County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) are now coming up on six months in office after being sworn into office in January this year. BCC Chair Andreas Blech was appointed to his commissioner position in January after voters recalled former Commissioner John West at the end of last year. Commissioners Ron Smith and Chris Barnett were elected last November. Blech’s BCC seat goes through the end of 2026 while the other two new commissioners’ seats are 4-year terms.
Any well-run larger organization would do a 6-month performance review on any new employees as well as annual reviews. The following is a summary of the BCC’s first six months in office with a whole bunch of facts and a few opinions, as is typical for this column. As you read the list, I encourage you to think about how you would rate your employees’ performance in their first six months. Because if you’re over 18 and you live in Josephine County, you are the BCC’s supervisor.
Intergovernmental Relations
Many will recall that just hours after being sworn into office in January, and in recalled commissioner John West’s only meeting of the year before the recall election was certified, John West convinced Commissioners Ron Smith and Chris Barnett to unilaterally and prematurely cancel the Library’s lease on the main Grants Pass Branch, a building right next to the County Courthouse and owned by Josephine County. The lease was originally set to expire at the end of 2025, and this was John West’s final act of attacking the local library, which since voter approval in 2017 has been run as an independent government district with a management and board independent of Josephine County.
Despite the Library formerly being run by the County until 2007 when it defunded the library and a non-profit reopened it and having a Charter requirement to provide for the maintenance of the library, BCC members argued, without even inviting Library officials to the table, that the Library should pay closer to a fair market rent for that building which the library has occupied for decades. Former Commissioner West was pushing for a rental rate even higher than what internal county departments pay for space, despite the Library paying for just about all costs of maintaining the interior of the building and having paid hundreds of thousands of dollars to upgrade the interior over the last 15 years without using County funds.
BCC members received a flood of “verbal” warnings from their bosses (the voting public) after voting to prematurely cancel the lease with just a 30-day notice. They thought the 30-day notice would “force” Library officials to the table to renegotiate the lease. Later communications from the elected County legal counsel Wally Hicks even threatened eviction “if it becomes necessary.” Then the BCC didn’t even prioritize meetings with Library officials for several months to follow, leaving the Library in limbo.
Not long after unilaterally cancelling the lease, Commissioner Chris Barnett even paid Facebook advertising on one of his personally managed Facebook “News” pages to spread what I would call a “hit piece” on the Library as it relates to this lease issue. Then a few months later after no progress on lease negotiations, the BCC appointed Chris Barnett to be the primary liaison to the lease negotiations.
Nothing has been resolved as of today but parties are hopeful a deal could be reached by August.
The BCC also used to have regularly scheduled joint meetings with the Grants Pass City Manager, Mayor, and City Council representatives to coordinate activities on joint projects and community issues in common. Those meetings have been few and far between so far in 2025.
How would you rate the BCC members on Intergovernmental Relations?
HR and Supervisory Skills
The newly elected and appointed commissioners wasted no time making their first controversial HR decision only a few weeks after being elected or appointed. The BCC fired long-time BCC office staff member Wendy Watkins who had served in this position for over 10 years without any publicly visible complaints. The BCC had a similar action last year after the firing of BCC office staff member Trish House, who in 2025 sued Josephine County for $1.2 million for wrongful termination. Commissioner Ron Smith wisely voted no on the firing of Wendy Watkins, Commissioners Blech and Barnett voted to fire her. While Wendy has not reportedly threatened to sue, a wrongful termination lawsuit could also result in this case.
Then in an unprecedented act, Commissioners Barnett and Smith voted to give BCC Chair Andreas Blech unilateral power to make personnel decisions and undertake personnel restructuring actions for a period of 90-days. What followed, in my opinion, was a time of personnel chaos unlike anything we’ve ever seen in Josephine County in modern times.
Despite a 2024 independent investigation by an outside law firm that showed there were sustained allegations of retaliation and bullying of the Public Health Director and Community Development Director by former Commissioners West and Baertschiger, newly appointed personnel czar Andreas Blech wasted no time in firing Public Health Director Michael Weber and Community Development Director Mark Stevenson. Blech also put longterm Public Works Director Rob Brandes on paid administrative leave for about 90 days and just last week the BCC quietly terminated his employment. Blech also fired all employees in the County’s code enforcement division. No public explanations have been given for any of these actions (the BCC hasn’t explained to their bosses any of these actions). Former directors Weber and Stevenson have reportedly retained an attorney and are considering bringing lawsuits against the County.
BCC Chair Andreas Blech recommended, and the other two commissioners agreed, to launch a voluntary resignation program, which essentially paid large bonuses to County staff to resign. Public
records requests showed that the voluntary employee resignation program quickly approved by the BCC ended up costing taxpayers approximately $765,000 and no financial analysis was done before approving this program. And many of the lost employees will have to be replaced by hiring new employees.
The County’s Finance and HR Director was one of the employees that took advantage of the voluntary resignation program, leading to the appointment of a new contract budget officer for the recently completed budget season. According to this former budget officer, temporary personnel czar Andreas Blech attempted to place IT and Emergency Management Director Michael Sellers into a newly created position of Director of Operations at a total compensation package of $388,049 per year. The former budget officer provided the draft budget documents showing what the total cost of this proposed salary and benefits package would have been when he resigned his budget officer contract position in protest. Not long after this blew up in the public’s eye, Michael Sellers resigned his position of “Interim Director of Operations,” chose to go back to his former position of IT and Emergency Management Director, and coincidentally also resigned his position as Vice Chair of the Josephine County Republic Party Executive Committee.
BCC Chair Blech’s reign of sole personnel authority also resulted in a demotion of long-term Juvenile Justice Director Jim Goodwin and without public explanation combined the Community Corrections department with the Juvenile Justice department. The Community Corrections department director was made the director of the combined departments, without following the legal process required to appoint someone new to the post of Juvenile Justice Director. Jim Goodwin resigned in protest and has recently stated that to this day BCC Chair Andreas Blech still hasn’t followed the legal process the State requires to appoint someone new to the Juvenile Justice Director position.
After the County Airports Director also took advantage of voluntary resignation program, BCC Chair Blech appointed a new Airports Manager to fill this role without advertising for the opening and without going through a typical recruitment for this position. The newly appointed Airports Manager is reportedly a friend of BCC Chair Andreas Blech. Coincidentally, Blech also leases a hangar at the Merlin-area County airport and used to be a member of the Josephine County Airports Advisory Board.
Citing legal reasons, BCC Chair Blech has refused to answer questions regarding the rationale for firing all these department directors, laying off all staff in code enforcement, and various other personnel restructuring actions have taken place so
far this year. Blech has volunteered to essentially fill the role of Public Works Director while Commissioner Barnett has volunteered to help oversee the Public Health department. Neither commissioner has past experience working in these areas.
We have received several confidential letters from current County employees in recent months, citing various concerns about their current work environment. The letters allege an environment of fear, retaliation, and record lows in employee morale after the various personnel “restructuring” actions taken place so far in 2025.
How would you rate the BCC members on HR and Supervisory Skills?
Media Relations
Analysis and facts related to media relations may seem a little biased coming from a member of the media, but the following are facts.
BCC Chair Andreas Blech generally declines to speak to any of the members of the local media. Commissioner Chris Barnett picks and chooses which media to speak to, while Commissioner Ron Smith generally speaks freely with most members of the local media.
Early in 2025, the Grants Pass Tribune asked the BCC to recognize the Grants Pass Tribune as local media authorized to attend BCC Executive Sessions, per the terms of the County media policy. At almost 700,000 views per month in recent months, The Grants Pass Tribune in 2025 likely has as many or more online views than any other local media, and in my opinion has earned the right to be recognized by the County as official media just like the Daily Courier, the IV News, KAJO, and others.
After the first request by the Grants Pass Tribune to be recognized under the County’s media policy, Commissioner Chris Barnett launched his own series of new “News” agencies, including but not limited to one called the Josephine County Tribune and one called Grants Pass Media Events. Clearly this is a direct attack on the Grants Pass Tribune (whose legal name is Grants Pass Media). Barnett personally manages the Facebook content of these “news” pages. And after at least two cease and desist letters, the County and Barnett now are facing yet another lawsuit.
A second request by the Grants Pass Tribune to be recognized as media according to County policy was made in March this year. Rather than act on the request, the BCC decided based on legal advice from elected County Counsel Wally Hicks, to completely suspend the County’s media policy and no longer hold executive sessions. This seems very strange to me as there are many legal situations that would normally demand a private executive session for all three Commissioners to discuss certain sensitive legal, personnel, or property transaction matters. And now they have no option to discuss these matters privately as a board.
A few months ago, Commissioner Chris Barnett approached KAJO and requested a talk show format essentially designed by Barnett himself with questions drafted by the County rather than the radio talk show host. KAJO wisely turned it down, which resulted in a temporary hiatus of the longstanding monthly Tuesday talk show on KAJO by the Commissioners. At the same time Barnett started appearing monthly on the Jackson County-based KMED-KCMD talk radio Bill Meyer Show.
How would you rate the BCC members on Media Relations?
• Continued on page 8
THE BCC -
Budget Management
As explained several times in this column in recent weeks, the County’s General Fund was projected to be at a surplus of about $3 million during Fiscal Year 2025, growing its ending fund balance from about $15 million to about $18 million during the Fiscal Year ended June 2025. This is millions of dollars above where the County’s General Fund carryover fund balance needs to be according to typical prudent financial policies. According to both the former County Budget Officer and my own analysis of the County’s budget, the surplus in Fiscal Year 2026 will be closer to $2 million for this next year.
In the face of this stronger than needed County General Fund financial position, Commissioners Andreas Blech and Chris Barnett set out to cut the budget and reduce the allocation of general fund resources given out to several non-law enforcement departments that use General Fund revenues. And they accomplished this. While BCC Chair Andreas Blech seemed to be set on 12% budget cuts for many general fund programs, Commissioner Chris Barnett advocated for and
the BCC ultimately agreed to 5% cuts for most non-law enforcement General Fund programs.
There are no major General Fund or Law Enforcement related revenues that are at risk of loss in the foreseeable future, but for the second budget year in a row the BCC did not honor the Sheriff’s staffing requests that were supposed to accompany the newly voter approved Law Enforcement Services District. The Sheriff projected the district and its new tax rate would provide for approximately 28 new staff members in the Sheriff’s office and a return to 24/7 services by the Sheriff patrol for the first time since the devastating cuts of 2012. The Sheriff has now only added 11 new positions since the passage of the new district two years ago.
The Sheriff requested 8 new positions this year, but the BCC only approved 6 new positions. This is despite several members of the public asking the BCC to fulfill the Law Enforcement District promises so we can get what we’re paying for. And of course, this is despite strong surpluses in the law enforcement and general fund budgets. While Commissioner Ron Smith advocated honoring all
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the Sheriff’s requests, Commissioners Blech and Barnett chose to grow the General Fund balance even more in Fiscal Year 2026 and cut no- law enforcement budgets rather than honor the Sheriff’s promises to voters.
Contrary to the financial management policies the BCC advocated for the County’s General Fund, despite countless public requests to refund the 4H Extension Service District, for the third year in a row the BCC defunded the 4-cent tax rate that goes with this service district. However, the carryover operational reserve balance in the district account was partially appropriated for use in the next year to restart OSU’s operating contract to provide some Extension services previously provided before commissioners completely defunded it last year. By defunding the tax rate for the third year in a row, the majority of operating reserves in the Extension Service District will be nearly depleted by the time the small 4-cent levy could be reinstituted in Fiscal Year 2027.
In the County’s overall budget in Fiscal Year 2026, there is no provision for a Public Works Director, there is no budget for the code enforcement
division, other fired department director positions don’t appear in the budget, and without any explanations many departments such as Public Health and the Veterans Service Office have less staffing approved in this year’s budget as compared to previous years. As a result of these changes and the 5% general fund cuts implemented at the end of the recent budget process, there have been and will be more significant changes to the service level various departments will be able to provide for the public.
These service level changes and restructuring decisions have yet to be explained to the public, the bosses of the BCC. We’ve requested answers, but the BCC remains silent.
How would you rate the BCC members on Budget Management?
What overall grade would you give each of the three members of the BCC during their first six months in office? If they were a union employee or general service county employee, would you say that any of them deserve a passing grade during what would normally be a probationary period?
Recall Rumors Swirl Around Josephine County Commissioners Barnett and Blech
News Desk
Rumblings of a political shakeup are gaining traction across Josephine County as residents and grassroots organizers begin forming recall efforts targeting two county commissioners: Chris Barnett and Andreas Blech. While no official petitions have been filed yet, sources close to the effort confirm that preliminary paperwork, campaign structures, and community outreach are already underway.
This marks a significant development in the local political landscape, echoing the successful 2023 recall of former Commissioner John West. At the time, West’s ouster served as a referendum on what critics called a pattern of unresponsiveness to public concerns and alignment with special interest agendas. Now, those same criticisms are being leveled against Barnett and Blech, who many say have merely continued the same policies and alliances.
Commissioner Ron Smith, who was elected with broader bipartisan support, appears
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to be avoiding the recall effort for now. According to several involved with the organizing groups, the effort—nicknamed the “BNB Recall” for Barnett and Blech—is intentionally targeted and strategic, focusing solely on the individuals perceived as carrying forward the legacy of their recalled predecessor.
Commissioner Chris Barnett has drawn consistent scrutiny since taking office earlier this year. His critics argue that he has largely mirrored the approach of John West, the very
commissioner who helped finance Barnett’s campaign. Detractors point to Barnett’s voting record, public statements, and continued alignment with individuals and groups previously associated with West’s tenure as evidence of political continuity, not reform. This has fueled frustration among voters who had hoped the recall of West would mark a clean break from the past.
Meanwhile, Andreas Blech, the appointed commissioner who filled the seat vacated by West’s removal, is also facing mounting criticism. Though appointed rather than elected, Blech quickly became a polarizing figure within the community. Residents have raised concerns about what they see as a narrow focus on personal priorities—particularly his interest in airport development—rather than addressing the broader needs of the county. Several sources allege that Blech has privately acknowledged the recall effort and expressed indifference, claiming he had already “accomplished what he came to do.”
Such statements, if confirmed, may only
further galvanize support for his removal. Activists involved in the recall initiative argue that elected officials and appointees alike must remain accountable to the public they serve, regardless of their personal goals or perceived short-term achievements.
The energy behind the recall movement suggests that organizers are confident in their ability to replicate the success seen with the John West campaign. Community organizers cite a growing sense of political exhaustion among constituents who feel unheard, overlooked, or actively disregarded by current leadership. As one resident put it during a recent community meeting: “If they won’t listen, we’ll vote them out.”
While formal recall petitions are still in the preparation phase, the clock may already be ticking for Commissioners Barnett and Blech. With political momentum building and frustration rising across the county, the coming months could set the stage for another high-stakes political reckoning in Josephine County.
Runway Loan Proposal Raises Eyebrows
temporary, necessary, and—above all—transparent. Nowhere in the proposal is there evidence that this airport project meets those standards. Also in the meeting packet is an unrelated—but more constructive—intergovernmental agreement with Oregon State University’s Extension Service. That agreement outlines a continued partnership between OSU and the Josephine County 4-H and Extension Service District to deliver educational programming and support. Unlike the airport loan, the OSU
agreement includes multiple layers of oversight, funding accountability, and long-term benefit to the community, such as youth development, agriculture support, and volunteer training. It is a stark contrast in priorities—and one that only sharpens the critique of the airport deal.
But the primary spotlight remains firmly fixed on the proposed $3 million transfer. In a county where funding for law enforcement, mental health services, and public infrastructure remains precarious, the idea of shifting such a
large sum to an underutilized airport—without interest, without safeguards, and without a public vote—has many crying foul.
Andreas Blech, who currently serves as Chair of the Board, has so far remained quiet about the criticism. But constituents aren’t staying silent. A growing number of residents are planning to attend Thursday’s meeting to demand that the loan be tabled until proper public hearings and financial reviews are conducted.
The truth is, the citizens of Josephine County
have seen this movie before. When political ambition outweighs fiscal responsibility, it’s always the public who pays the price. This time, however, voters are being urged to show up and speak out.
The meeting begins at 10:00 AM on Thursday, July 18, at the Anne G. Basker Auditorium in downtown Grants Pass. Whether you support or oppose the runway expansion, now is the time to raise your voice. Silence, after all, is how accountability dies.
TAKE A BREAK
Posting Date July 14, 2025
July 14, 2025
Posting July 14, 2025
City of Grants Pass Accepting Applications for Historical Commission Vacancy
City of Grants Pass
The City of Grants Pass is currently seeking qualified applicants to fill a vacancy on its Historical Buildings and Sites Commission. This appointed position will run through December 7, 2026, and serves a key role in overseeing matters related to historic preservation within the community.
The commission is tasked with reviewing proposed changes to historic districts and designated structures located within the city's Urban Growth Boundary. Its primary responsibilities include evaluating applications for exterior alterations, new construction, and demolitions that could impact the historical integrity of these areas. The commission also plays a role in promoting awareness and appreciation of historic preservation, advising city departments and agencies on related matters, and identifying buildings and sites of historic and archeological importance.
To be eligible, applicants must be at least 18 years of age and must represent a local historical society within Grants Pass. The city emphasizes the importance of this position as it helps guide local planning decisions that impact the cultural and historical landscape of the area.
Applications are available at the City Administration Office, located at 101 N.W. A Street. Prospective candidates may also apply online through the city’s official website. All completed applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 8, 2025. Late submissions will not be considered.
Once the application deadline has passed, the Historical Buildings and Sites Commission will conduct a review of all submissions on Thursday, August 14, 2025. Qualified applicants who are selected for further consideration will then be invited to participate in interviews conducted by the City Council during a scheduled Council Workshop on Monday, September 15, 2025.
Final appointments to the commission are expected to be made at the City Council meeting on Wednesday, September 17, 2025.
The City of Grants Pass encourages eligible members of the local historical community to consider applying for this important role, which directly contributes to protecting and preserving the city's rich architectural and archeological heritage.
Fire Danger Remains High in Grants Pass as Heat and Dry Conditions Persist
News Desk
With triple-digit temperatures gripping the Rogue Valley and parched vegetation blanketing the landscape, local fire officials are raising the alarm. The Grants Pass Fire Department has issued a reminder the fire danger level is High, urging all residents to take immediate and sustained precautions to prevent wildfires.
Deputy Chief and Fire Marshal Joe Hyatt issued the warning late this week, emphasizing that the shift in risk isn’t just symbolic — it reflects a volatile mix of hot weather, dry fuels, and increased human activity that could spark a major fire. The agency is asking everyone to adopt heightened awareness and avoid any activity that could ignite a blaze.
Key behaviors that can help reduce the risk include refraining from mowing or weed-eating during the hottest parts of the day, especially near dry grass. Operating machinery or power tools during midday hours can throw sparks, which can quickly catch and spread through dry brush. Residents are also advised not to drive or go off-roading over dry vegetation, which can be ignited by hot exhaust systems or spinning tires.
“Even a single spark can lead to disaster when conditions are this dry,” said Hy-
att in a community safety message. “We're urging everyone to be especially cautious, take proactive measures around their homes, and think twice before engaging in any activity that could cause a fire.”
Another important step is maintaining defensible space — the buffer zone between a structure and the surrounding vegetation. This includes clearing dry leaves, dead plants, and other flammable debris from yards, rooftops, and gutters. Creating and maintaining this barrier can slow or stop the spread of wildfire and is especially important for homes located near forested or brush-covered areas.
Residents are also encouraged to stay informed by regularly checking updates from the Grants Pass Fire Department and
other local emergency management agencies. Information about safety alerts, fire restrictions, evacuation routes, and fire prevention tips are frequently posted on their official social media pages and websites.
The department is reminding the public that wildfire prevention is a shared responsibility. Even small actions—like avoiding parking a car over dry grass or properly disposing of cigarettes—can make a big difference in protecting lives and property.
With many Southern Oregonians planning summer activities outdoors, fire officials are also asking visitors and locals alike to use extreme caution when enjoying the region’s natural beauty. Fire bans may be in effect in parks, campsites, and river recreation areas, and failure to comply could not only be dangerous but also result in fines or criminal charges.
As the fire danger remains high, cooperation from the community is essential. Every effort—no matter how small—can contribute to the broader goal of keeping Grants Pass safe during this hazardous fire season.
For updates and official guidance, follow the Grants Pass Fire Department’s alerts and use the hashtags #GrantsPassFire and #FireDangerHigh when sharing community safety information.
Florence, Oregon Draws National Praise as a Top West Coast Destination
By Bettina Hannigan
Florence, Oregon is once again receiving widespread recognition as one of the premier travel destinations on the West Coast, with national media outlets showcasing the town’s unique mix of coastal beauty, outdoor adventure, and small-town charm. Most recently, Condé Nast Traveler included Florence in its June 23 list of the “13 Best Beach Towns on the West Coast,” placing it alongside iconic locales such as Carmel-bythe-Sea, Sausalito, and Catalina Island.
Florence, often dubbed “Oregon’s Coastal Playground,” has seen a surge of national interest from travelers seeking romantic getaways, family-friendly escapes, and opportunities to immerse themselves in nature. The Condé Nast article specifically highlighted the Oregon Dunes, which stretch nearly 50 miles along the state’s central coast and are among the largest expanses of oceanfront sand dunes in the
world. Florence, situated on the northern edge of the dunes, serves as a convenient and picturesque base camp for exploration. The coverage emphasized the town’s proximity to natural landmarks like the Heceta Head Lighthouse, as well as its charming Old Town district with seafood restaurants, riverfront views, and easy access to sandy adventures. But local leaders say there’s much more to the story.
According to the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce, the region offers nearly 20 miles of uncrowded beaches, scenic state parks, dozens of nearby lakes, waterfalls, and miles of trails through ancient coastal forests.
Attractions like the Sea Lion Caves and Florence’s status as the “Sandboarding Capital of the World” add to its allure. Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of recreational activities, including kayaking, kiteboarding, horseback riding, golfing, and art walks through the town’s vibrant cultural scene.
Florence’s growing reputation as a travel hotspot has been backed by accolades from a wide variety of respected outlets. Over the past several years, publications such as TripAdvisor, USA Today, Reader’s Digest, Expedia, and MSN have all named Florence among the top destinations in categories ranging from best weekend getaways and most scenic towns to underrated beach communities and best places to propose.
These honors reflect not only Florence’s natural attractions but also the efforts of its local businesses and community leaders to preserve and promote what makes the area special. The Chamber of Commerce credits these achievements to the dedication of residents, business owners, and volunteers who have helped shape the town into a welcoming and vibrant place for visitors from all over the world.
Florence’s inclusion in Condé Nast
Traveler, a publication known globally for its meticulous and authoritative travel reporting, is particularly significant. With a long-standing reputation for highlighting only the most exceptional destinations, the magazine’s endorsement puts Florence on the radar of millions of seasoned travelers seeking quality experiences beyond the usual tourist trails.
As national media and travel experts continue to shine a spotlight on this gem of the Oregon Coast, Florence is poised for continued growth as a premier destination. Its blend of natural wonder, outdoor recreation, and genuine hospitality makes it an ideal choice for those seeking both serenity and adventure.
With continued coverage from top travel authorities and a steady influx of positive reviews, Florence is solidifying its place not just as a regional favorite, but as a nationally recognized treasure on the Pacific coast.
