May 16 Special Election Voter's Guide

May 16 Special Election Voter’s Guide Candidate and Measure Guide

April 26, 2017 produced by the Siuslaw News PHOTO BY JACK DAVIS/SIUSLAW NEWS

This guide, like the usual Lane County Voter’s Guide, is an ad-free space for western Lane County candidates to detail their background and stances on issues pertinent to their boards.

Inside, find candidates for Lane Community College Board of Directors, Mapleton Fire District Board of Directors, Mapleton School District Board of Directors, Mapleton Water District Board of Directors, Port of Siuslaw Board of Commissioners, Siuslaw Public Library District Board of Directors, Siuslaw School District Board of Directors, Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue Board of Directors, Swisshome-Deadwood Rural Fire Protection District Board of Directors and Western Lane Ambulance District Board of Directors. Siuslaw News invited all 39 candidates to participate. If a candidate chose not to respond, this guide used information from the candidate’s filing form with Lane County Elections.

There is also information on the Renewal of Jail and Critical Youth Services 5-year Levy measure.

Disclaimer: Siuslaw News is not endorsing any candidate or measure included in this form. Any views or opinions stated are exclusively those of the individuals themselves. Siuslaw News cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or reliability of information submitted by the individuals.

Before voting in the May 16 Special Election, Siuslaw News encourages people in the community to read the Voter’s Guide thoroughly and pick the candidates they feel are the most qualified for each board position.

Director Position 6

Director Position 4

Name & position

Siuslaw School District Background

Qualifications

Priorities

Involvement

BS University Wisconsin Stevens Point — 1986 MS University Alaska Fairbanks — 1990

Paul Burns

Elizabeth Miller

Jesse Chapman

Suzanne Mann-Heintz

I have completed three 4-year My priorities would be to work as My greatest involvement in the comterms on the Siuslaw 97J School a board to maintain the gains we munity has been working with the FloBoard of Directors. I am the senior have been making over the last 3 rence and Mapleton students as a biolmember on the current board. I am years. We have worked hard as a ogist with the Forest Service. I have intimately familiar with the Siuslaw board to provide fiscal stability to been one of the lead individuals, with the likes of Jim Grano, teaching outI have worked for the U.S.D.A. School District operations. I have the district and to improve the edudoor education to find ways to connect Forest Service since 1991, the last occupied the position of Board cational climate within and between our youth with the outdoors and to 22 years in Florence.

Chairperson for four 1-year terms. the schools. We have been able to ensure that our youth value the beauty This year I completed the highest maintain a highly qualified and very of the Oregon coast, one of the main level of Oregon School Board talented staff by careful manage- things that make this such a great place Association trainings for school ment of our funding resources and to live. My 12 years volunteering as a board members. by developing highly effective school board director has allowed me to become more involved with more administrators. facets of our community.

I have a B.A. in history from the I have managed a corporate commu- My focus would be on two main I’ve owned a home in Florence since University of California, Santa nications departmental budget and cut priorities: 1. Working within a con- 2003. Until recently, I was the sole Cruz. My employment background wasteful costs; working within a budget strained budget to implement addi- caregiver for over a decade for a parent is in public relations and corporate is a necessary skill and commitment for tional school services and urging with Alzheimer’s in Los Angeles. Prior communications. any good manager or public official. I government officials to give higher to early retirement to care for my mom, I was a self-employed public/commuam passionate about public education priority to the state education budgnity relations consultant. I worked on a and the need to preserve and promote et. 2. Developing ways to increase variety of political and nonprofit conour inclusive form of education. I have school safety, which includes neu- cerns, including environmental initiataught adults in a major corporate setting tralizing dangerous intruders and tives; one example was a successful and appreciate educators’dedication and possible environmental contami- water bond measure. I worked with the persistence in helping their students. nants, and upgrading an aging phys- L.A. City Council and other local and Any board member should be strongly ical plant, despite the failure of the state officials, and the pro-environment supportive of our children, educators, last ballot measure to fund improve- community. I look forward to working to benefit our schools and community. and parents. I would do my utmost. ments to the infrastructure.

Being raised on a family-operated dairy farm until graduation from Siuslaw in 1973 helped to lay a foundation of a strong work ethic at an early age. My parents taught me that if I wanted something to work for it. After high school, I logged in the area followed by a 3-year enlistment in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Returning home, I pursued education at Eugene Bible College and various trade schools. Basically, I am a blue-collar worker with a formal education and a lifetime local resident who wants to give back to a school system that helped to build a solid foundation for my life.

The entire Chapman family graduated from Siuslaw, including my parents. My father was the only 5-year letterman to ever graduate locally. While I don’t have a long list of prior government employment for a resume, you can count on my whole heart being involved. Perhaps a new person on the board will help convey some fresh ideas. While in college, I was elected to several offices, such as student body president. These experiences were preparatory to life’s challenges. Both the ability and desire for leadership were ingrained in me as a youth in the Siuslaw district.

Research shows the graduation rate for Siuslaw in 2015 was a dismal 67 percent, below the state average of 74 percent.

This is unacceptable. If elected, I will work to correct these numbers. As I learn how the board governs, I will work with my colleagues to provide the best opportunity for an education that is practically possible within a limited, affordable budget. While I am firmly against Common Core and a new high school, I am pro-sports, believing they are merely an extension of the classroom. As an allstate middle guard myself, I know what access to athletics can mean to students.

Now is the time to stand up and get involved. I am a graduate of an honorable system that existed just four decades ago, but something has changed! Since then the system has become hijacked by entities that have used it for financial gain under the pretense of benefiting the children. As a final thought, if you elect me, I will stick to my conservative values without shame. I will do what I believe is best for my community and most of all, the children. As a salute to alumni and to those who will graduate in the future from this institution, I promise to serve you with all of my heart.

B.A. Elementary Education, Southern Oregon College

Two and a half years (2014-present) service on the Siuslaw School Board

1. Continuing progress towards higher graduation rates, student academic achievement and attendance being made through positive behavioral supports sysM.A. Special Education, University of Oregon 18 years as a Florence resident tems, academic help and transition resources.

2. Continuing to maintain and develop Post Graduate Studies: National Several decades as a child advocate programs that prepare students for University, Vista, Calif., and in a variety of capacities healthy and productive futures, including University of Oregon classes in the arts and vocational and An open mind, a listening ear, technical skills. The district is developing 35 years of teaching in Lane, a collaborative spirit and a partnerships to continue increasing opportunities as economically as possible.

Lincoln, Linn and Benton counties caring heart.

3. Dealing with the challenges of under funding from the state’s budget cuts.

Retired in 2011

I have volunteered with community organizations such as Florence Free Lunch Program, Senior Health Insurance Benefits, KXCR, Florence Area Community Coalition, Aspire and 90X30. I helped form the Flying Needles & Hooks of the Siuslaw, a charitable knitting and crocheting group, and the Siuslaw Education Foundation to generate funds to help close the gap between funding and the costs of education. We are blessed to have a generous and diverse group of citizens who care enough to participate in the dialogue that supports democracy and strengthens the fabric of our community.

Name & position

Siuslaw School District Background

Qualifications

Priorities

Involvement

Position 7

I received my Bachelor of Arts In addition to my years of experi- The main upcoming priority - not I am a member of the Florence Degree from Fresno State ence at school sites, I was elected to only for the Siuslaw School Board Kiwanis, a director on the Kiwanis University and a Master of a school board in California where I but for all districts in Oregon - is Board, and a member of the Education Degree from the served for seven years until moving how to maintain staff, class sizes, Doernbecher Children’s Hospital University of LaVerne. I taught in a to Florence. I am presently serving educational programs, and facilities Cancer Program committee.

K-8 school district for 34 years and on the Siuslaw School District with the looming shortfalls in state was a Vice Principal until my retire- Board. school funding as well as anticipatment. ed federal cuts to public education.

Position 2

Bill McDougle Real Property Appraiser Graduate of Mapleton High School Attended Lane Community College (photo not provided) Certified through American College John Barnett

Current Siuslaw School Board Member

Lane Community College Director Zone 1 — Western Lane County

Name & position

Background

Qualifications

Priorities

Involvement

It is clear that the top priority for the board is addressing the $10 million budget shortfall while continuing to support the mission of LCC. In midApril I was appointed to the board to fill the vacancy left by the departure of Sharon Stiles. In the April 19 meeting, I spent hours listening to over a hundred people address the administration’s proposed budget cuts. I am so deeply humbled by the emotion and dedication that the students, faculty, staff and community members brought to their testimony. I will do everything I can to make the most informed budget decisions possible.

It is also vital for the board to continue to build and support relationships with the LCC community, ensure a smooth transition for the new president and work with the state to increase the funding to the institution.

I have spent the past decade of my life dedicated to doing my part to help our nation succeed. I left my job in the private sector in Chicago in 2006 to help elect the next president of the United States. I worked tirelessly for candidates, including Sen. Obama in 2008. I followed the President-elect to D.C. to join his Presidential Transition Team, and spent many years serving the students of this country at the Department of Education.

I was fortunate to move to Oregon about a year and a half ago. I was searching for a community that would be a good place to raise my two children with my husband. It has proven to be the perfect choice for my family.

It is an honor to run for the LCC Board and give more back to the state and community I am proud to call home.

I am the General Manager & Co- Running a successful business, Increasing enrollment through I volunteer 4-6 hours per week at Owner of PizzAmoré, a successful volunteering in my community as a marketability and accessibility. my church helping with set up, midItalian restaurant and pizzeria in high school youth group leader, and dle school youth group, and high Albany, Ore. a graduate of an Oregon University school youth group.

I have a Bachelor of Arts in System school.

Spanish from Oregon State University.

Jeffrey Gratreak

Melanie Muenzer

I possess a Master of Public Affairs degree from Indiana University Northwest and a Bachelor of Science in General Management degree from Purdue University. I am currently on Lane Community College’s Board of Education. I am also the Associate Vice President for Academic Administration and Chief of Staff to the Provost at the University of Oregon. I have been with UO since October 2015 and work on all matters related to running the academic side of the institution. Prior to coming to UO, I served for 7 years at the U.S. Department of Education as an appointee of President Obama. My roles there included White House Liaison, chief of staff in the policy office, and deputy assistant secretary for higher education policy. I worked on a variety of issues related to higher education, including Obama’s proposal for free community college for all.

While I have vast experience in higher education policy and administration that will help make me a productive board member, my strongest qualification is my passion for LCC’s mission. It is hard to express how important community colleges are. I am driven by the belief that everyone should have the opportunity to attend a higher education institution and receive the support necessary to obtain a credential. I have dedicated my career to making this a reality. In D.C., I saw firsthand the vital role that community colleges play in creating equitable access to education. They serve and protect ALL students, providing opportunities for students, whether that is a few continuing education courses, gaining the knowledge and skills for a professional or technical career or launching into a 4-year institution.

Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue

Name & position

Director Position 1

Crystal Farnsworth

Background

Qualifications

Priorities

Involvement

I have a bachelor’s degree from I served as a volunteer firefighter SVFR has made great improvements I have been a member of the the University of Colorado. I am a with Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue in training and standards over the last 3 Florence Rotary Club for eight years, retired middle school and high for six years. I was secretary of the years under the able leadership of Chief including six years on the board and school teacher. I was also a realtor Siuslaw Valley Fire Association for Jim Langborg. The Strategic Plan — a one year as president. I am about to in Boulder, Colo. three years and I was on the SVFR collaboration of SVFR volunteers, paid begin my new three-year assignment as employees and community members— assistant governor for Rotary District I have over 30 years of volunteer Scholarship Committee for four provides a tool to keep the department 5110. I am a member of Last Resort service in schools and communi- years. I served recently as a member focused on implementing its training Players and enjoy participating in their ties. I am co-owner of Heceta Self of the IGA Stakeholder Interview goals and devising ways to better serve productions. I am a member of the Storage here in Florence.

Panel. the community. The IGA is an evolu- Florence Community Chorus and I am Aside from my experience within tionary process which aims to ensure an active member of my church. Heceta the department, I have developed smooth operations and communication Self Storage is a member of the leadership skills over the years serv- between the fire and ambulance dis- Chamber of Commerce and we are ing as the president of a children’s tricts. This all adds up to better service, Friends of the FEC. organization, leading discussions in protection and safety for citizens. The We contribute financially to excela women’s organization, teaching board’s priority should be to keep the lent local organizations including SOS, school for many years in middle and department on the upward trajectory Florence Food Share, Habitat for high school, and serving in a variety established these last 3 years, to advo- Humanity, Boys & Girls Club, cate for the best possible training to Soroptimists, Oregon Coast Military of positions in Rotary, most recently meet national standards and to balance Museum, Rotary’s Polio Plus program as president right here in Florence. goals with resources by using taxpayer and the Boy Scouts of America. dollars responsibly.

Ned Hickson

After graduating from Siuslaw In addition to my business experi- I see the role of the board as being I’ve been a member of the commuHigh School in 1984, I moved to ence and being a long-time resident one that helps the fire department nity for more than 20 years.

Dallas, Texas, and pursued a practical of the Florence community, I was achieve its goals and vision while, at In addition to volunteering as a fireeducation working in the restaurant also a volunteer with Siuslaw Valley the same time, holding it financially fighter, I’ve also coached for the Boys industry. I eventually worked my way Fire and Rescue for 5 years, starting responsible to the taxpayers. To that & Girls Club’s soccer and basketball end, in addition to supporting the programs, emceed numerous fundinto the position of regional chef for in 2010. During that time I was department’s continued growth in train- raising and community events over the Morrison, Inc., based in Atlanta, Ga., named Recruit of the Year, was ing and development of its volunteers years, from the Rhody Pageant to the where I oversaw 11 restaurants among the top 10 volunteer respon- and staff, one of our main focuses will Humane Society Dessert and Auction, throughout the southern region. ders in 2011 and 2012 and served be making a final decision on imple- Project Graduation Bingo Night, and I returned to Oregon in 1996 as a two terms as president of the menting the IGA merging of the fire others. restaurant management consultant for Siuslaw Valley Firefighters and ambulance districts. In many ways As editor of Siuslaw News, I also try it makes sense operationally. However, to be informed about the many commuSteve Martin Management Co. Association.

I was hired as the sports editor at I believe my corporate experi- there are budgetary questions that also nity-oriented organizations in our area Siuslaw News in 1998 and was pro- ence, deep roots in our community need to be considered before reaching a and ways in which we can help bring moted to editor in 2016. and hands-on understanding of the final decision. In my opinion, to come awareness to their efforts. Bringing my In all of my positions, understand- fire department brings a unique onto the board with a pre-determined experience to the fire board is a way for stance either for or against the IGA is me to give back to a department that ing and adhering to budgets, as well as combination to the fire board. irresponsible to the department as well means a lot to me, as well as the wonanticipating future needs, have been a as the taxpayers. That’s why there’s a derful community it protects. part of my responsibilities. window of time before making that final decision.

Mapleton Fire District Director Position 4

Director Position 5

Kathy Gerlach

Diana Scoville

Secretary and treasurer of Mapleton Fire District Board of Directors — 2 years Studied computers at Mendocino Community College Retired

Current member of Mapleton Fire District Board of Directors Taught in Oregon for 33 years — continues as a substitute teacher Graduated from Mapleton High School Graduated from George Fox University with a degree in Secondary PE and Health Graduate studies in Health and Elementary Education at Oregon State University

Siuslaw Valley Fire and Rescue Name & position

Director Position 2

Ron Green

Marvin Tipler

Background

Qualifications

Priorities

Involvement

• Current president/chief execu- • Education and career expertise Governance: The board’s role is to pro- I serve on several local boards that provide governance and oversight. The cur- mote economic, health and social tive officer of Oregon Pacific in finance Bank • 20 years volunteer board experi- rent board has done an excellent job of cre- improvement for Florence: Peace Harbor • Graduate of Western Banking ence with emphasis on governance, ating a plan and allowing the chief to exe- Medical Center Community Board, School strategic planning, budget review cute the plan. If elected, I will promote the Chairman • Peace Harbor Medical Center continuation of strong governance. This • Degree in Bank Management and approval, contract negotiations Foundation Board, Board member • means establishing clear performance and Finance, University of and respectful collaborative team expectations for both the board and the Rotary Club of Florence, Board member Washington/ Pacific Coast building chief and holding everyone accountable. and Sargent at Arms • Lane Community Graduate Banking School • Proven leadership and vision: The board must be independent from College Florence Center Advisory • 28 year community banking Current CEO of a company with operations and there cannot be any con- Committee, Member • 2017 Siuslaw career over 90 employees flicts of interest. • Fiscal Responsibility: Valley Fire & Rescue Budget Committee.

The board has a fiduciary duty to the dis- Individually and through my employ• 10 years community bank trict’s taxpayers. It must always have a bal- er, I provide countless volunteer hours executive in Florence, Ore. anced operating and capital budget and and financial contributions to the followlook for ways to create efficiency to mini- ing local agencies: Siuslaw Outreach mize the impact on taxpayers while ensur- Services • Florence Food Share • Boys & ing public safety. • Continuation of the IGA: Girls Club of Western Lane County • This will save taxpayers money through Habitat for Humanity • Siuslaw High the elimination of redundant administrative services. More work is needed, but School Music Department • CROW • Last Resort Players • Soroptimist of abolishing it would be irresponsible.

Florence.

After graduating from Siuslaw In addition to the valuable experi- Our No. 1 priority should be the I was born and raised here in Florence High School in 1982, I earned my ence I garnered from volunteering care and maintenance of our and have spent the majority of my life Emergency Medical Technician #2 and working at SVFR for 35 years employees and volunteers. I feel we serving the citizens of Florence, Dunes certification from South Western and from working at WLAD for 26 need to focus on our volunteer fire- City and the surrounding areas as a fireOregon Community College. I then years, I became interested in fire fighters, keeping them involved and fighter and paramedic, which kept me attended LCC, earning my Paramedic busy both days and nights for 35 years. administration and began attending happy, while providing them with Certifications. During my tenure at The fire service is my passion and I SVFR board meetings early on in the necessary tools and training to would like to continue serving this comSVFR, I attended the National Fire Academy in Maryland five times, my fire career. I continued doing so keep them safe while they protect munity as a SVFR board member. gaining valuable fire training experi- for the past 30 years. I also attended the community. We also need to I provide assistance to other groups ence. I continued to take Fire Science the majority of the board meetings keep a close eye on being fiscally and organizations as needed. I rototilled responsible. With good planning, the softball fields at the high school, and EMS related classes during my of WLAD. 35-year career with SVFR. I enjoyed Over the years, by attending the we can provide excellent fire pro- preparing the fields for the season. I was my volunteer and paid career with board meetings, I have learned how tection without raising property a member of Kiwanis for 4 years prior to SVFR from 1981-2016. good boards function and also how taxes beyond the district’s existing retirement, and enjoyed making a differIn the 1980s, I worked for 2 years as some boards struggle to accomplish permanent tax rate. ence in our community through its a car detailer and mechanic, and then what they have been elected to do. I efforts, including lining the streets with worked for 6 years as a sales associate. I American flags. My wife Rhonda and I feel this gives me the ability to hit was hired at Western Lane Hospital/ look forward to rejoining Kiwanis in the the ground running when elected to Western Lane Ambulance as an EMT #2 future. I am currently volunteering with in 1986, advancing to the paramedic the SVFR board. the Florence police with their 2-way level and enjoyed a 26-year career there.

radio communication equipment.

Swisshome-Deadwood Rural Fire Director Position 2

Director Position 3

Director Position 4

Director Position 5

Matt Grassauer

Herb Harry

Harold Duval

David Green

Property Manager — Swisshome Attorney with Oregon Department of Justice Retired equipment operator Enterprises 31 years as a practicing attorney with 18 Graduated from Junction City High School Previously, Assistant to General Contractor years as an U.S. Army attorney Current member of Swisshome— Crescent Homes Graduated from Mapleton High School Deadwood Rural Fire Protection District Graduated from Sheldon High School BA in Political Science — Board of Directors Associates in Business — Lane University of Hawaii Community College Doctorate of Jurisdprudence — B.S. in General Science — UO UO School of Law

Retired equipment operator Graduated from Mapleton High School Current member of SwisshomeDeadwood Rural Fire Protection District Board of Directors — 3 terms

Western Lane Ambulance District

Name & position

Director Position 4

Larry Farnsworth

Laura Anne Stonelake

Background

Qualifications

Priorities

Involvement

Current Employment: Captain, In an era of ever increasing emer- I support the newly implemented I served on the SVFR & WLAD Boeing 787, United Airlines • Federal gency calls, our WLAD Board will IGA between WLAD and SVFR. It Shared Administrative Services CommLaw Enforcement Officer, Homeland support the excellent paramedics, makes perfect sense to be forward ittee as a citizen taxpayer advocate. Once Security • Owner, Heceta Self Storage EMTs and first responders in their looking and to find ways to save ad- the plan was put in place I have continued Education: MBA — Pepperdine mission to provide compassionate ministrative costs and taxpayer money to serve as an alternate. I have been appby combining administrative tasks ointed to serve on the WLAD Budget CoUniversity • BS Financial Planning — and excellent medical response to within both districts to avoid unneces- mmittee. I was appointed by the city counBrigham Young University • Federal our large service area. sary duplication. The IGA has brought cil to serve on the Airport Advisory ComFlight Deck Officer Graduate, Federal My extensive educational and greater synergy to operations and mittee which is tasked with economic Law Enforcement Training Center vocational experience in healthcare improved coordination of response for development and airport master planOccupational Background: Senior finance, insurance, cost reimburse- emergency medical and fire calls. ning.

Financial Analyst, St. John’s Hospital ment and capital project manage- There are many examples of ambu- My wife Crystal and I support local and Health Center • Director of ment can help the district with lance and fire operations departments organizations, including Rotary Club’s Patient Business Affairs, St. John’s future growth. Our taxpayers expect being combined under one leadership Polio Campaign and Auction, Habitat Hospital and Health Center • good value and close management team all across our nation. I also think for Humanity, Florence Food Share, Director of Patient Business Affairs, of every dollar allocated to the dis- it is important to serve all of the most Siuslaw Outreach Services, Boys & Boulder Community Hospital • trict. Additionally, my experience distant rural areas of our ambulance Girls Club, Boy Scouts of America, Realtor and Business Developer • and appreciation for high level district with the best coverage possible. Soroptomists Christmas Drive, Friends I support SVFR Chief Jim Langborg of the FEC, Rods ’n’ Rhodies, Florence Chief Pilot, Carlsberg Financial training regimens will ensure that and WLAD Operations Chief Matt Community Chorus, Last Resort Corporation • Flight Operations our operations team is supported by House who are both outstanding lead- Players, Oregon Coast Military Training Instructor and Line Check the best medical response training ers in their departments.

Museum, Lions Club Wings & Wheels Airman, United Airlines available.

• Lane County Bank and Western Proudly serving 20 years as a I am running as an advocate to • Budget Committee Member — Bank: Bank Teller WLAD board member. I was asked protect the taxpayers’ money, by Heceta Water District and Siuslaw • Siuslaw School District: to run for the board when a new working to return this organization Valley Fire Department Substitute Classroom Teacher, manager was hired. I was on the to the level of transparency the pub- • Support our Schools! I attend Teacher’s Aide committee that hired the office man- lic deserves. sporting events and help make din• Siuslaw News: worked front ager and many of the current crew Bring accountability back to the ner and lunches for the football desk, answered phones, sold adver- members. I have been part of con- WLAD office.The IGA needs to be team, volunteer during wrestling tising - worked with public tract negotiations, budget meetings slowed. After one year I have not tournaments and help with softball • Windrift Gallery and Candy and worked in the office when need- seen anything to indicate this is a team snacks.

Shoppe, Uptown GM: worked with ed. I have first-hand knowledge in cost savings or a more efficient • During my tenure as a board customers selling gifts, candy and the day of our paramedics. I have operation. member, we developed the car seat clothing on the Bay Front. worked with staff and crew to make Getting WLAD back on track to and bike helmet giveaways, beach • Victorian Belles Christmas this district financially fiscal with being the “best running organization safety awareness public service parBizarre — 40+ years as a TOLE accountability. I was instrumental in it can be.” ticipant and introduced Life-Med, a painter: taught painting at Paint expanding LifeMed to provide servWLAD program.

Patch and LCC ice to those in need in or communi• 60-year resident of Florence and ty.

Mapleton

Mapleton School District Director Position 1 John Simington Current Mapleton School District Board Member Graduate of Mapleton High School

Director Position 2 Mizu Burruss Current Mapleton School District Board Vice Chair Board Member since 2013

Director Position 4 Marilyn Fox Current Mapleton School District Board Member Member since 2015 Currently serves on the Mapleton Water District Board of Directors since 2013 Graduate of Mapleton High School and Lewis and Clark College — B.A. in Political Science

Western Lane Ambulance District

Director Position 5

Director Position 3

Name & position

Rick Yecny

Mike Webb

Background

Qualifications

Priorities

Involvement

I received a bachelor’s degree in Busi- Jane and I have lived in Florence for One priority will be monitoring and I am a member of Saint Mary’s, ness Administration from the University 35 years and we have raised two children oversight of the new IGA between Our Lady of the Dunes, Catholic of Portland. I have been a Certified Pub- in our community. I have extensive expe- WLAD and SVFR. Another high pri- Church. I am also a member of the lic Accountant (inactive) since 1979 and rience in finance as a practicing CPA and ority will be to see that district staff Florence Rotary Club. I am on the worked for an international CPA firm in chief financial officer at Peace Harbor continues to receive training that will Advisory Committee for our Lane Portland for 5 years before moving to Hospital. As a practicing CPA, I also rec- maintain a high level of service to our Community College campus here in Florence in 1982 with my wife, Jane. In eived a Municipal Auditor’s license and community. Critical Care training is a Florence. I was recently added to Florence I became a partner in a local audited many Florence area municipali- real asset to our community and the City of Florence Economic CPAfirm and practiced for over 18 years. ties. Municipal finance background will should continue to be supported. I Development Committee. I am on During that time, I was also on the Peace be an asset in developing annual budgets would also like the board to continue the Advisory Committee for Harbor Hospital community board for 10 and monitoring financial performance to focus on a master facilities plan to Siuslaw Vision 2025. I am a Board years. In 2001, I was hired by Peace Har- for WLAD. I have over 25 years of expe- assure adequate facilities, storage and Member for the Oregon Association bor Hospital to be the chief financial offi- rience in healthcare, including being the equipment. WLAD’s 2016 Strategic of Hospitals and Health Systems cer. In 2010 I became the chief adminis- chief administrative officer at Peace Plan lists a Community Paramedic pro- and Chair of the Small and Rural trative officer at Peace Harbor Medical Harbor Medical Center. As administrator, gram as a possible added service to the Hospital Committee, representing Center. I am a board member of the I have been responsible for overseeing community and I would like to this 32 community hospitals across the Oregon Association of Hospitals and the operation of the Emergency program to be a priority. Lastly, I state of Oregon.

Health Systems and state-wide chair of Department and have firsthand knowl- would prioritize continued fiscal health I was recognized for community the Small and Rural Hospital committee. edge of how it collaborates with ambu- and close relations and continued col- involvement by being selected as I have been a board member of Oregon lance care providers. I also served on laboration of services with SVFR and the 2009 Florence First Citizen.

Pacific Banking Company since 2003. LCC’s budget committee for 6 years.

Peace Harbor Medical Center.

Oregon State University — 12 years experience on the Board Continued efforts to implement In addition to my prior involveB.S. in Business Administration/ of Western Lane Ambulance and stabilize the IGA to share ment with the ambulance district, I Management, Minor in Forestry District, the last 8 serving as board administrative oversight with have been involved as a director on president. I bring general business SVFR. Less than a year ago, WLAD the Florence Urban Renewal management and financial skills, contracted with SVFR for the fire Agency since 2007, worked with the along with common sense and a department to provide administra- Ford Foundation Leadership strong connection to the community. tive oversight. Changes were made Program Siuslaw Region Visioning in our staffing model to allow for a Process, assisted the board of the continuity in our operations while recently created Siuslaw Youth also taking advantage of an experi- Soccer Program, and I am an active enced management team and member of the Rotary Club of resources to allow us to continue to Florence. provide high quality, efficient service to our community. We have come a long way, but there is still more to do.

Mapleton Water District Commissioner Position 1

Commissioner Position 2

Wade Williams

Vacant

General contractor — self employed, Attended Mapleton High School

Siuslaw News thanks all candidates who chose to participate in the Lane County election process and this Voter’s Guide.

Siuslaw Public Library District Name & position

Director — 3 Positions

Michael Falter

Susy Lacer

Background

Qualifications

Priorities

Involvement

I received a M.A. in English I spent over 12 years working Siuslaw Public Library District I am dedicated to preserving Literature from Western with a nonprofit board in has a remarkable library for the size access to the arts in Florence, from Washington University in 1995 and Bellingham, Wash., from the staff of this district, and I would like to films to performing arts, by keeping have taught a variety of writing, lit- perspective. I’ve had roles on vari- see more opportunities for the City Lights Cinemas a thriving erature and ultimately film at sever- ous advisory boards, and have had greater community to help keep it community hub for years to come al universities and colleges through extensive retail experience with thriving for the next hundred years — while also lending my time and 2015. In 2002, I also began a paral- bookstores prior to my teaching and beyond. This means establish- effort to that most critical of institulel full-time career programming career. I understand boards and their ing a Library Foundation that will tions: the public library. theaters and film festivals before specific roles as well as the current aid the strategic plan as implementstarting my own theater with City challenges as technology alters the ed by staff and board based on comLights Cinemas in Florence in way we consume books. I’ve always munity needs and input.

2014. had a strong appreciation for the role public libraries have in their communities.

I attended Oregon State I have served on the Library The Siuslaw Library is in the sec- I serve on the board of the Friends University and Clatsop Community District board since January 2014 ond year of an exciting five year of the Siuslaw Public Library and College. I am a self-employed grant and am currently President of that Strategic Plan. This plan was devel- have been actively involved with professional and have been work- board. I also serve as an elected oped with significant community that organization since 2010. ing in that field since 2004. official with the City of Florence input and is a reflection of the prior- I also volunteer with: Florence Past occupations include: fish Council. ities of residents of our district.

Master Recyclers, the Siuslaw biologist, banker, deckhand, admin- For six years, I worked on staff It contains three major goals: School District, Florence Area istrator, lab technician and book- for another local government and I Lifelong Learning & Enrichment, Chamber of Commerce, the City of seller. have a good understanding of the Library as Community, and Florence, Siuslaw Vision 2025, operations of special district gov- Outreach & Engagement.

Florence Community PTA, the Port ernment.

Continued implementation of this of Siuslaw, Florence Food Share plan and its objectives is the main and the Florence Events Center. focus of the district. The board is also exploring creation of a Library Foundation to increase sustainable funding.

The May 16 Special Election Voter’s Guide will be available online at thesiuslawnews.com

Siuslaw Public Library District Name & position

Director — 3 Positions

Brad Miller

Background

Qualifications

Priorities

I hold master’s degrees in library Besides graduate education, I The closure of public libraries in My wife and I bought our house science and public administration have served as a working librarian, a Douglas County is a cautionary tale- in Florence in 2003 but we have and am a certified archivist. Before library staff supervisor and a library although, fortunately, library servic- only been full-time residents since retirement, I served as a librarian administrator in a public library set- es in Lane County and in this the end of 2015. Other than paying for over 20 years, mainly with the ting. In the latter role, I regularly District are organized and funded taxes and voting, this candidacy is Thousand Oaks Library System, a dealt with both policy and budget- differently. The Library District is a my first foray into community municipal public library system in ary issues. vibrant and valued part of the involvement in the Siuslaw region. southern California. I began with I have managed a number of proj- Siuslaw community, but the chalthem as a reference librarian and ects related to library and informa- lenges for the board and staff are the later served as special collections tion technology. perennial ones: to provide the solid librarian, systems librarian, library Although no prior education or library and information services that services supervisor and division experience can completely prepare the community has come to expect manager. you for current problems and issues, in a changing environment and with I think this background could be of limited resources and to respond to use to the Siuslaw Public Library community needs across a large and District. I hope the voters will think diverse service area. so too.

I’m a lifelong supporter of libraries If elected, I will prioritize carry- One of the main reasons my wife and consider them critical and valu- ing out the board’s primary respon- Robin and I moved to Florence 12 able community assets. I frequently sibilities of ensuring prudent spend- years ago was because of the great use the library services and attend ing and developing effective library library here. Since then, I have been programs, bringing a patron’s per- policies. I fully support the current involved with several community spective to board deliberations. focus on lifelong learning and com- groups, including: Volunteering with the Siuslaw munity enrichment with the long- • Current Siuslaw Public Library Council, Planning range goal of being the best small District Board Member My occupational background Watershed includes 30 years of federal public Commission and civic groups have library district in Oregon. We cur- • Current Siuslaw Watershed Lower Siuslaw service. I am a U.S. Army Vietnam involved working on complex issues rently have a well run library system Council Combat Infantry veteran. After com- to develop practical, cost-effective with excellent staff and dedicated Representative and past Board pleting my education, I worked for 28 solutions. Working on the Florence volunteers. We have a large district Member years in Oregon for the U.S.D.A., Planning Commission has prepared which includes Florence, Mapleton, • Current member of the U.S. Natural Resources Conservation me for understanding the state laws Deadwood, Swisshome, Dunes City Forest Service sponsored Oregon Service, including supervisory posi- that govern our library district. My and other unincorporated areas.

Dunes Restoration Collaborative tions in Portland and Roseburg. I career with a federal conservation I am committed to maintaining Group worked closely with private landown- agency provided me with extensive our libraries in Florence and • Past Florence Planning ers, districts,governments and other experience working with private citi- Mapleton as welcoming community Commissioner — 2008 to 2012 agencies. Responsibilities included zens, small districts, cities, counties spaces offering access to a rich col- • Past Citizen Advisory computerized conservation planning and state government. My back- lection of materials and diverse cul- Committee member for KXCR and directing collection of data to ground is helpful in understanding tural programs.

Community Radio — 2014 assess land use trends and erosion these relationships and potential benrates. efits to library patrons.

Master’s degree in Wildlife Biology and Range Management — University of Montana • B.S. in Ecosystem Analysis — Western Washington State University • B.S. in Botany — University of Washington

Mark Tilton

Involvement

Don’t forget to vote! lanecounty.org/elections

Port of Siuslaw Commissioner Position 1

Name & position

Shayne Burnem

Background Education: Ph.D. Animal Physiology with a minor in Veterinary Medicine • B.S. Business Management • A.A.S. Electronic Technologies Occupation: Alaska Communications Systems — senior network specialist & station manager 2008-present • AT&T Alascom — network operations control technician 2007-2008 • Farm Loop Community Church — youth pastor 2005-2007 • Alaska Fiber Star — provisioning coordinator 1997-2005 • Alyeska Pipeline Service Company — SCADA Technician 1991-1997

Qualifications

Priorities

Involvement

I believe my unique skills stem- I view the port as a tool to pro- My wife and I have spent seven of the ming from coordinating technical mote and develop economic oppor- last nine years working with local youth projects and services between the tunities for the constituents of the through Church on the Rock. We serve private sector and government agen- port district. there in many capacities that help the cies, and my understanding of mod- I believe the priorities are to get community. We also use our Restaurant, ern communications infrastructure, spending under control, make deci- Lovejoy’s Restaurant & Tea Room, to will help the port expand into new sions on resources that strengthen raise money for local non profits. arenas of economic development. the port’s economic position and develop new opportunities to grow the port and its ability to be a resource instead of a tax burden.

My name is Terry Duman and I My business experience helps Our upcoming priorities will be My wife and I and our three chilam running for Siuslaw Port me in the decisions required as a to reduce our long-term debt and dren and grandkids support youth Commission. I was born and raised commissioner on the current board. address the neglected maintenance activities in the Florence and in Florence.

I am an avid sport and commer- on our properties and buildings. I Mapleton area.

I am a business owner with expe- cial fisherman and feel that the port feel the public needs a fisherman’s Thank you for your support. rience in excavating and hauling, district needs to be financially stable perspective on the commission and I RV park and commercial fishing to offer a fishing environment to the offer that. activities. public.

Commissioner Position 3

Terry Duman Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from I was a member of the Mapleton Finding additional stable funding My community involvement is the University of Oregon. I am a Certified School Board for 25 years; I am currently sources, better communication with the through my serving as a Port Public Accountant with the firm of serving as a Port of Siuslaw public, more public input possibly by way of Commissioner, and professionally workBuckwald Accounting & Consulting, PC Commissioner, which I was appointed to. committees and prioritizing major repairs ing with several local non-profit organizain Florence, Oregon I have a good working knowledge of and capital improvement projects. tions Budget and Finance issues and have an understanding of the economic challenges the Port of Siuslaw faces.

Mike Buckwald Oregon born and raised Active tribal elder, tribal fisherman Semi-retired Barber and former and protector of the Klamath River pawnshop and beauty shop owner Estuary and manager Water, family and fish are my way Old millworker with logging expeof life. I’m an active “Yurok” rience with Davidson Mill, Tribal Water Elder with the Rosboro, U.S. Forest Service Klamath River Salmon Festival.

Most people know me as “Frank the Barber” Frank Eisele

Doctrine of Discovery advocate for aboriginal rights to worship and pray on aboriginal grounds.

Port of Siuslaw Name & position

Commissioner Position 5

Bill Fleenor

Bill Meyer

Background

Qualifications

Priorities

Education: University of (cont.)

• Lane County The people of the Port of Siuslaw Past member of the following Arizona — Ph.D. Animal Commissioner - District 1 2007- have a unique opportunity to ask boards: Florence Rotary Club; Physiology with a minor in 2011 • Board of Directors Central questions and expect answerers as Florence City Club; Siuslaw Veterinary Medicine • University of Lincoln PUD - Subdivision 4 2001- to what is the Port of Siuslaw, why Watershed Council; Siuslaw Arizona — M.S. Animal 2006 • Co-Owner — The Silver does the Port exist, how/who does it Outreach Services; Siuslaw Tale Physiology • California State Lining Boutique 2000-Present • Co- serve? My goal is to ask these ques- Spinners Toastmasters Club.

University — B.S. Clinical Owner — Kimillia Enterprises, Inc. tions and get answers. I have some Past member of the following Laboratory Technology with a Independent Computer & Business ideas about what, why and how, but organizations: Rotary — 4-time minor in Chemistry Consultant 1997-2006 • Co-Owner they need to be carefully examined Paul Harris Contributor, Kiwanis Experience and Qualifications: —Biogenics, a Dairy Instrument and executed so we will see a verifi- and Elks.

Studio Owner/Instructor — Distribution Company 1983-Present able positive outcome. I believe the StudiFlorence.com 2014-Present • • Fleenor Paper Company, Inc — port can be the vehicle for economPrincipal Broker - Hybrid Real President & CEO 1983-1998 • ic development and prosperity, Estate, 2014-Present • Broker — Instructor/Biology 1985-1987 much like an incoming tide that lifts Berkshire Hathaway NW Real Laney Community College all boats, but we need a change in Estate 2012-2014 • Port of Siuslaw Oakland, Calif. port leadership that listens to and Commission — Position 4 2011broadly represents the people it 2015 • Partner — Oregon Coast serves to make this happen.

Technology 2011-2012 (cont.)

Education: B.S. Physics and Math — California State University Long Beach • Secondary Teaching Credential 5-year program from California State University Long Beach • Graduate work in Applied Physics at California State University Northridge • Graduate work in education at Southern Oregon University In 2007 I formed a consulting firm, Creekview Systems Inc., that provides ongoing hardware and software support for embedded computer controls.

From 1974 to 2007 worked as manager and systems design engineer specializing in “Clean Sheet” design of embedded computer systems. Prior to 1974 I taught science and math in Josephine County, Ore., and Palmdale, California.

As a board member for the Three Rivers School District for more than 10 years, I learned quickly a board is more productive and garners more public support if the members are unified in their efforts to provide the best outcomes for their community. If the board has an attitude of teamwork and a willingness to work together, the community is more apt to support their decisions, no matter how tough those decisions might be. A problem solver and a team player are some of the skills I will bring to the commissioner’s position. I led the bond committee that built two new schools and upgraded and repaired all the other schools in the district. That community passed the district’s first capital improvement bond in 25 years.

“A rising tide lifts all boats.” is an apt quote. A vibrant and improving Port District can lift the community it serves. Clearly, the port is in transition.

We need to address the vacancy rate at the commercial port, the use of and improvements to the campground facilities, improving the Port’s role in economic development and the marketing of the industrial park property. There are no easy solutions, but I bring a lifetime record of problem-solving skills, people management skills, money management skills and successful political involvement. A history of accomplishments that require working as a team member to solve tough problems is part of my background. These skills are needed as a port commissioner.

A life-long interest in boats & the My qualifications include 35+ years I would like to see the Port give water prompted me to enlist in the U.S. of living on or near the water: first as more attention to preserving open Navy 1964-68 and with the G.I Bill spokesman for the Mariners of space and welcoming public access; attended Santa Rosa Junior College, Richardson Bay, Sausalito, Calif., along with restoring and rehabilitatwhere I took courses in Celestial where I dealt with the San Francisco ing the Siuslaw River and Estuary Bay Conservation & Development Navigation, Oceanography, and Native System.

Committee, and an enforcement strateAmerican Studies.

There must be some undiscovgy regarding “unauthorized” vessels in I am retired.

Richardson Bay. This was successfully ered avenues to bring back to the stopped and resulted in California Sen. Port of Siuslaw the “commercial John Burton Pro Tem, extending an fishing industry” that has been neginvitation to represent him at the San lected.

David Swinney

Involvement

Francisco Bay, State of the Bay & Estuary Conference.

My 5 years living aboard my boat at the Port of Siuslaw Marina, along with 12 years of owning Commercial/ Residential property on Nopal Street directly across from port parking lot are other qualifications.

My wife and I have lived in the heart of Old Town and the Port of Siuslaw for 10 years. We have been in the area for almost 20 years.

As an active member of the community around the port, I have served on the Steering Committee for the Old Town Neighborhood Watch. Also an active member, supporter and volunteer for Florence Rotary Club, Florence Christian Church amd Old Town Neighborhood Watch.

I also serve on the board of Bridgeport Condominium Owners Association.

Measure Filing

Renewal of Lane County Jail and Critical Youth Services Five-year Levy Question: Shall County maintain jail beds; critical youth treatment services levy $0.55 per $1,000 assessed valuation, for five years commencing 2018/19? This measure renews current local option taxes.

Passage of this levy will allow Lane County to maintain a minimum of 255 local jail beds for the levy’s five-year period. By maintaining the increased jail capacity, the Lane County Sheriffs Department will not have to release persons accused or convicted of violent crimes until their cases are resolved or sentences are completed.

The levy will also continue to provide counseling, secure treatment and detention services for youth offenders in Lane County, providing community youth offenders the treatment they need.

The levy will continue to provide additional counseling, secure treatment and detention services for Lane County youth offenders. This ensures that more community youth offenders receive the treatment that they need. The funds generated from this tax must be placed info a restricted special revenue fund specifically earmarked for the jail and youth services.

An external auditor will annually present, in a public forum, an independent audit report to

the Sheriff and the Lane County Board of County Commissioners to ensure accountability.

After five years, this tax rate automatically sunsets, unless re-approved by Lane County voters.

This measure generates revenue for five years, beginning in 2018, and for the median home in Lane County, valued at $175,679 in 201 6, the annual tax payment will be approximately $96.62.

Measure 20-271 requires Lane County to maintain at least 255 local jail beds for adult offenders, eight beds for treatment of youth offenders and eight beds for detention of youth offenders.

The measure requires that all funds from the five-year levy renewal of $0.55 per $1,000 assessed valuation be used for jail operations in support of jail beds for adult offenders and treatment and detention beds for youth offenders.

The levy renewal would begin July 1, 2018, and end on June 30, 2023, unless a subsequent ballot measure extending the levy was approved by Lane County voters.

The measure requires all funds raised by the levy to be placed in a separate, restricted

account to be used for no purpose other than to pay for jail operations related to the 255 jail beds for adult offenders and 16 beds for youth offenders.

The measure requires an annual audit of this restricted account by an independent auditor and it requires the auditor to present a report of all revenue and expenses to the Sheriff and Board of County Commissioners in a public forum.

The measure requires the Board of County Commissioners to continue to appropriate Discretionary General Funds to jail operations which, together with the levy revenue, will ensure operation of at least 255 local jail beds for adult offenders, eight beds for detention of youth offenders and eight beds for treatment of youth offenders for the length of the levy.

Lane County Sheriff Byron Trapp said, “This levee renewal is an absolute, pure renewal.

There is no change, except the date on the ballot. What we have is working.

“I don’t think that we can gamble with the benefit that this has provided. We will continue it forward for another five years. I urge you to continue what we have been able to put in place with your support for the last four years.”

More information on the May 16 Special Election is available online at www.lanecounty.org/elections In order for residents to vote, they must be registered at their current address in Lane County. Ballots for the May 16 election are set to be mailed on Thursday, April 27. All voted ballots must be received at the Lane County Elections Office or in an official drop site by 8 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, May 16. Postmarks do not qualify ballots.

In Florence, the official drop site is Florence Justice Center, 900 Greenwood St.