Benton County Commissioner Position 2
County Commissioners set policy and adopt budgets for their counties. They supervise County departments either directly or, when there is a County Administrator, indirectly. Counties provide a wide range of important public services, from managing elections to maintaining roads. To qualify, a candidate must be a U.S. citizen, a registered voter, a resident of the district for at least a year prior to the General Election, and 18 years of age or older.Term: 4 years. This position is partisan.There will be a forum for candidates in this race on Monday, April 29, at 6:00 p.m. at the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library, 645 NW Monroe Ave., Corvallis.
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Liz Irish
(Dem)
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Gabe Shepherd
(Dem)
What are the three greatest challenges facing the County, and how would you address them if elected?
What qualities and experience make you the best candidate for County Commissioner?
What role would you support for the County to play in addressing the supply of housing in the region?
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Town Where You Live
Corvallis
Your Experience/Qualifications
Corvallis City Councilor, Corvallis Budget Commissioner, Chair of the Benton County Democrats, Chair of the Corvallis City Legislative Committee
County
Benton
Term
4 years
Term Expires
01/01/2029
Three of the greatest challenges facing the county are a crisis of confidence, a housing crisis, and a budget crisis.
First, I commit to holding annual town halls across Benton County to hear from people about what their concerns are for the County and to rebuild trust in County government. I also will move to have at least one County meeting a month not during the workday and after traditional working hours.
Second, I commit to pursuing a regional housing plan that will help us planfully site housing of all types across Benton County to help ease the housing crisis locally.
Finally, the county needs to advocate for local tax reform to help us reach a point where income can meet the skyrocketing costs of maintaining a good government.
As an elected official for the City of Corvallis and a public employee, I understand the ins and outs of how local government works. I am starting my fourth year as a Corvallis City Councilor and I have built relationships with many individuals who partner with the county. I am endorsed by labor, climate groups, and local and state leaders. I also believe that my passion for climate action, universal healthcare, and equity are in line with the community's deeply held values.
I have the experience needed to be an effective County Commissioner.
The county is in a perfect opportunity to be a convener for housing initiatives. I support the county leading the way on a regional housing plan and allowing for small, farmworker housing on farmland.
The county also has a major role to play in the allocation of state and federal passthrough dollars to help local non-profits.
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