PRIMARY ELECTION – MAY 2024 – Tillamook County Pioneer’s QUESTIONS FOR THE CANDIDATES: Tillamook County Board of Commissioners Position #1 – Erin Skaar, Jeff Spink & Bruce Lovelin

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It’s an election year – and the primary election is coming up May 21st.  There are several important positions on the primary ballot, including two Tillamook County Board of Commissioners.  We’ll hear from the three candidates for Position #1 below.

Here is the link to the AAUW Candidate’s Forum that was held on Sunday April 21st.

Erin Skaar (incumbent) – Tillamook County Board of Commissioners Position #1

  1. Why did you decide to run for office?

Housing!  In my previous job at CARE I started my work on bringing housing to Tillamook County as the co-founder of the Housing Task Force and then the Tillamook County Housing Commission.  In doing that work with former Commissioner Baertlein I could see that I could have a much greater impact on the housing crisis as an elected official than as the Director of CARE.  When Bill retired, I ran for the position and was elected in May of 2020.  I am running for re-election to continue my work in areas including housing, houselessness, outdoor recreation facilities, financial stewardship with county funds, and creating a new relationship with ODF for the work in our forests.

  1. What specific goals do you have if you are elected?

During my first term I led successful efforts in bringing in over $2.25 million for projects to assist those who are experiencing houselessness.  We have created a 5-year strategic plan, a coordinated houseless services office, and the Houseless Action Network.  In my 2nd term I look forward to working with partners to create a shelter and case management system across the county.

In the area of housing we have distributed over $1 million in funds through the Housing Commission and successfully passed a Tillamook County specific bill in the legislature to bring in funds to amend the local planning codes during my 1st term.  I look forward to continuing to build the resources of the county’s incentive system and to working with the legislature to change laws to make it easier to build much needed housing.

The Oregon Coast Trail and the Salmonberry Trail are both potential economic drivers for Tillamook County outdoor tourism and I have been involved in the planning and fundraising work during my 1st term.  In my second term I look forward to the implementation of on the ground improvements and construction for both of these projects.

As a county commissioner I am the liaison to the Treasurer’s Office and have delved deeply into the expenses of the county.  I led a special project to update the county’s pension plan creating cost savings into the future.  I look forward to continuing my work to modernize the spending of the county for greater cost efficiency.

  1. What is your experience in assessing, preparing, and evaluating public agency budgets?

I have nearly 30 years of hands-on experience in assessing, preparing, and managing public agency budgets.  I spent 25 years in management in the non-profit sector, 2 years on the county budget committee prior to becoming a commissioner and am now on my 4th budget cycle as a commissioner.  In addition, I have served on non-profit boards and finance committees with budget oversight and am currently on the board and finance committee of the Columbia Pacific Coordinated Care Organization with a budget of over $225 million.

  1. What is your experience in preparing and evaluating public policy? 

During my first term as a county commissioner, I have been involved in addressing public policy issues providing me experience in both the process required to make policy and the importance of public engagement.  I have participated in:

  • land use appeals, making decisions based on the application of Oregon land use law
  • led the process for ordinance consideration and approval
  • participated at the state legislative level to provide language for an original bill and provided testimony on a variety of other bills

Good public policy is a partnership between the government body and the people we serve.

  1. Who are your top five campaign finance donors? What is your relationship with them?

Gloria McLucas – My mother

Debra Moberly – Friend, Supporter and my campaign treasurer

Patricia Hughes – Friend and Supporter

Linda Kozlowski – Friend and Supporter

Deb Tinnen – Friend and Supporter

  1. There are many divisive issues facing our communities, and the divide is becoming greater. How would you bridge these differences and how do you resolve conflicts?

I think the key to bridging differences is listening to understand the differences and seeking similarities.  Different does not necessarily mean wrong, it simply means different.  As we work to understand how we are different, we can also work to find out how we are similar and what we share.  Then we can create a relationship based on those shared values.  If we are all willing to seek to understand each other’s perspectives, perhaps acknowledge that we don’t agree on an issue, and look for a space where we do agree, I believe we can bridge the divides.

In regard to resolving conflicts, earlier in my life I was trained as a mediator.  This work taught me to look beyond the apparent conflict in front of me to seek to understand the underlying areas of concern.  When we find ourselves in conflict we tend to stop listening and instead fight to win.  The best solutions come when there is time and willingness to dig into what the real concerns are in the conflict and work together to find a solution that meets the needs of both sides.

  1. Please provide a “SWOT” analysis of Tillamook County – Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats.

Strengths –  (What do we have that is good?)

  • Great people who love this county and it’s communities
  • Beautiful environment with abundant natural resources
  • Strong economy with low unemployment
  • Strong community organizations

Weaknesses – (What do we have that is challenging?)

  • High cost and low inventory of housing
  • Low wage jobs
  • Shortage of employees
  • Aging infrastructure
  • People experiencing houselessness and substance use disorder(s)
  • Limited funding in county government

Opportunities – (What outside forces could help us?)

  • Broadband funding for expansion of fiber throughout the county for economic growth
  • State funding focused on supporting new housing development for workforce housing
  • Increase in transient lodging taxes if allowed/approved to support needed government services
  • State funding focused on addressing houselessness and substance use disorder(s)

Threats – (What outside forces could hurt us?)

  • FEMA Biological Opinion to stop development/redevelopment in flood plains, including in cities
  • Revenue losses to schools, special districts, and county government through the implementation of the habitat conservation plan in the state forest
  • Overtourism damaging our natural environment
  • Poor state highway conditions on highway 6 and highway 101
  • Potential for a catastrophic earthquake and tsunami

 

Jeff Spink – Tillamook County Board of Commissioners – Position #1

#1. I was approached by several concerned citizens and a committee group. I spent time speaking with different groups, friends and acquaintances.  Everyone I met with was very supportive and encouraging.  After weighing the odds and understanding the balancing act between fund raising, campaigning and a full time career I knew going forward was challenging.  I was not deterred; I felt strongly and entered the race for county commissioner.

#2. The ultimate goal is to resuscitate the lagging county economy. The multifaceted approach would include improving and expanding infrastructure, improve housing availability, business development, workforce expansion, child care availability, utilization of our natural resources in a sustainable model.

#3. In my business my budget starts at zero every month and is evaluated on a constantly shifting market place. I would look at the various revenue streams and project a budget on a 5yr plan.  Looking and planning 25-50–100 years into the future visioning major projects, potential wants and needs.

#4. Having spent 10 years in law enforcement I have had plenty of opportunities in administering public policy. Some policies are better than others.  I feel that I’m intelligent, level headed and I will bring a common sense approach to developing public policy.

#5. My campaign donors are customers and friends that I’ve developed relationships with over the past 20 years at Tillamook Motor Co. People from all over the political and social spectrum that believe in me, trust me and value my integrity.  People that feel I’ll do a good job in representing the people of Tillamook Co.

#6. There are valid points from all sides of divisive issues. To filter out the core values and look at how they align with community values, the legal system and moral norms.  Negotiate from there to seek a common ground, bridge building.

#7. SWOT – Analysis: Speaking from what I observe as a citizen and as an outsider looking in on the workings of Co. government.
Strengths – Community support, of the places that I’ve lived this community comes together in many areas with the snap of the fingers.  Whether it be in time of need after fire or flood, yearly charity drive to support the Doernbecher foundation, YMCA, local service groups, churches that outreach community needs, etc.
Weakness – Aging infrastructure, buildings, water & sewer, roads.  Infrastructure needs to be brought up to speed to adapt to the growing needs of the county, communities and potential business growth.
Opportunities – Getting hands on experience of the intricacies of Co. Government to see if there’s room or need for improvement, efficiency of motion.  Having a seat at the table as commissioner on non-county issues that affect the county.  Voicing community concerns with Rep. Javadi and Sen. Weber on state issues that impact the Co.

Threats – The countries policy on open borders and drug use.  The outside perception is Oregon is a safe haven for drug use without recourse.  There is an increase of people coming into the state and county, from all over, for the sole purpose of collecting generous benefits from the state and drug use without fear of going to jail.  This influx is taking away needed community resources to deal with outsiders versus people from within our own communities.

Bruce Lovelin – Tillamook County Commissioners Position #1

  1. Why did you decide to run for office?

My decision to run for county commissioner in Tillamook reflects a commitment to our community and a desire to contribute to its well-being and progress. I am dedicated to the residents of Tillamook and will take on the responsibilities of leadership to guide our county towards a brighter future.

As a county commissioner, I will address local issues, advocate for the needs of our residents, and work towards solutions that improve the quality of life for everyone in Tillamook. I care for the residents of Tillamook and, if elected, will lead us in a direction to help shape the county in a positive way.

I have a deep commitment to public service and a belief in the power of community involvement to drive positive change. I believe in the potential of Tillamook County and am dedicated to ensuring its continued success and prosperity.

Our county needs a fresh perspective.

  1. What specific goals do you have if elected?

I have a commitment to fiscal responsibility, community engagement, and practical solutions to address the needs of Tillamook County residents. If elected, my initiatives have the potential to bring about positive changes and improvements to the county’s governance and overall well-being.

Improving the Business Climate: I aim to foster a supportive environment for businesses by listening to their needs, removing government obstacles to growth, and developing a sustainable economic plan that respects and supports all sectors of the local economy.  We need to recruit sustainable businesses and industry.

Improve Financial Accountability – I advocate for a more efficient and responsive county government that implements a budget that meets its financial abilities.  The current Commission adopted a budget that is $4 million underwater.  We need to match the size of our government with the ability to pay for it, without new taxes.  Further I will oppose costly projects such as the courthouse replacement and new radio system, and always explore more cost-effective solutions.

Support Housing Development – I will streamline the development processes by reducing bureaucratic roadblocks and hurdles for our citizens and builders, advocating for a more supportive approach from county planners and flexible building regulations.

Investment in Public Safety: I would suggest reallocating Transient Lodging Tax (TLT) funds to enhance law enforcement, particularly during periods of increased tourism.

Addressing Road Conditions: I support the need for better maintenance of county roads and advocate for the state to address important state roads such as Highway 6.

 

  1. What is your experience in assessing, preparing and evaluating public agency budgets?

I have extensive experience in public agency budgeting.  As the engineering manager of the Tillamook PUD, I proposed and managed the largest project in their history (construction of the Wilson River Substation).  As the Chief Engineer of the Central Lincoln PUD, I was in charge of a $25 million, five-year construction program.  I served 10 years on the Netarts-Oceanside Sanitary District during a time of intense construction including a bond sale.  I am currently on the Board of the Netarts-Oceanside Fire Protection District which a primary responsibility is development, management and oversite of the departments budget consistent with State of Oregon Budget Law.

  1. What is your experience in preparing and evaluating public policy?

My job experience includes working in leadership/management positions at the Bonneville Power Administration, Northwest Irrigation Utilities, Columbia River Alliance, Tillamook and Central Lincoln PUDs.  These positions along with the Special Districts in Tillamook County listed above have resulted in extensive public policy development.  In addition, I have been involved with Federal, State and local elected officials and government agencies in the implementation and development of legislation both in Washington DC and Salem.

  1. Who are your top five campaign financial donors? What is my relationship with them?

I believe it is a citizen’s civic duty to volunteer and serve the community.  I have elected to not solicit or accept any financial contributions.  On my web site www.Lovelin4Tillamook.com, you will see a tab to contribute.  Once there, you will see a listing of County non-profit agencies that, in lieu of campaign donations, I am requesting my supporters to donate to.

  1. There are so many divisive issues facing our communities, and the divides becoming greater. How would you bridge these differences and how do you resolve conflicts?

During my time serving 10 years on the Tillamook County Planning Commission, we were confronted with many contentious issues.  Land owner disputes can often time be very difficult to resolve.  My approach was to ensure the opportunity of each party to be heard and completely express their opinions.  I often times would ask questions and have a dialogue with the parties.  After better understanding each parties concerns we had a greater chance of coming to a acceptable solution.  As a County Commissioner, I will be a listener and be accessible to our county’s citizens.  Having County Commission meetings during a weekday is beneficial only to the county department managers but does little to enhance public discussion and valuable input into government.  Just as I did for 10 years on the Planning Commission, I would support evening meetings and encourage the public’s participation. It seems the current Commissioners avoid contact with the citizens except for public viewing on community TV access.

  1. Please provide a “SWOT” analysis of Tillamook County – Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats.

Strengths –

75 miles of beautiful coastline, 4 bays, 9 rivers

27,574 citizens which make Tillamook County there home

Great recreational opportunities.

Unspoiled natural beauty

Tillamook Creamery

Dory boats at Pacific City

Birds, whales, crabs, clams, salmon and the best oysters ever.

Clean water, clean air, beautiful sunsets, community livability

Weaknesses

Financial health of County Government

Lack of community economic diversity and growth

Lack of housing

40 percent second home ownership making it too relying on weekend peaks

The hazards and disrepair of Hwy 6 (MP 33 to 43)

Public safety during the summer peak months

Accessible health care

County Departments such as the Planning Department which makes Tillamook a difficult place to build

Opportunities

3 million people live within 2 hours of Tillamook

Tillamook Creamery – the number 1 tourist destination in Oregon

A great place to visit

Prime location for small industrial/commercial business location

Internet and Fiber Optic Communications

2 new County Commissioners

Threats

State and Federal government over reach leading to taking of private property rights

County Commissioners with a singular agenda that does not meet the broad needs of its citizens

Our youth moving away due to lack of opportunities

County Commission over spending and potentially leading the County into insolvency

Infrastructure – roads, water, sewers, housing

Lack of available employees

Homelessness and addiction