Paul Fournier is stepping into the political arena with a bid for Tillamook County Commissioner, bringing a diverse background in public safety, journalism, and community service. With nearly three decades as a Tillamook resident, Fournier’s multifaceted career has prepared him well to tackle the county’s challenges, emphasizing his commitment to serving the community he calls home.
A former first responder and detective, Fournier has witnessed firsthand the issues facing Tillamook from multiple vantage points. His broad experience across different sectors of public service gives him a unique perspective on the needs and aspirations of the community.
“Having spent more than half of my life in public service, I felt like I still had more to give,” Fournier explains.
This sentiment is at the core of his decision to run, driven by a desire to contribute more effectively to the community outside the first-responder role.
Fournier’s campaign centers on several critical issues, including improving infrastructure and economic revitalization. He points out the daily struggles faced by residents due to inadequate infrastructure, particularly the roads.
“I live on a secondary street… you know what I mean when you’re dodging potholes every day,” he says, highlighting a common frustration among residents that he plans to address.
His approach suggests a shift in priorities to align more closely with the immediate needs of the community.
Economic development is another major pillar of his platform. Fournier argues for a more diversified economic strategy, moving away from an over-reliance on the historically central timber industry, which has seen decreasing revenues. He proposes innovative ways to boost the local economy, such as enhancing public parks and exploring new revenue sources.
“We’ve been relying on timber revenues for so long, and they’ve been decreasing… We need creative ideas on how to bring more revenue in,” Fournier notes, advocating for changes that could foster a more resilient economic environment.
Transparency and community engagement are themes that Fournier passionately supports. He believes in making government processes more accessible and engaging for the public, ensuring that residents have a voice in the decisions that affect their lives.
“People want to be heard,” he stresses, proposing more accessible county meetings and opportunities for public input.
This commitment to engagement is about restoring trust and encouraging a collaborative approach to governance.
Fournier’s personal investment in the community is clear from his deep involvement over the years. As a parent who has raised children in the local school district and as a professional who has worked various jobs across the county, from driving a produce truck to serving as a public information officer, his life in Tillamook has been marked by a direct and continuous interaction with different facets of the community. These experiences have not only strengthened his connection to the place but have also given him insight into the practical, day-to-day concerns of its residents.
Paul Fournier’s candidacy for Tillamook County Commissioner is built on a foundation of extensive local involvement and a keen awareness of the community’s needs. His diverse professional background, combined with a genuine concern for the future of the county, makes him a compelling candidate. As Tillamook County looks forward, Fournier’s perspective, grounded in service and innovation, could be crucial in steering its course toward improved infrastructure, economic resilience, and greater community engagement.
You can find the entire conversation here:
