Special districts in Oregon are formed to provide specific local government needs. They are created by a vote of the people in the local area being served. Examples include people’s utility districts, library districts, water districts, fire protection districts, and more. They are governed by a board of directors, which is responsible for management and financial accountability. Special districts are empowered to levy any necessary taxes and fees to fulfill their mandate. Board members are not paid but may receive a per diem reimbursement.Health districts seek to provide a range of physical and mental health services to communities, sometimes in association with a hospital. The board is responsible for budgeting and personnel administration.Qualifications: Candidate must be a registered voter in the district. Employees of the district are not eligible. ORS 440.325 and 440.330(6)Term: 4 yearsCANDIDATE FORUM: The League of Women Voters of Coos County is hosting a forum for BAH board candidates on Wednesday, April 30, 6:30 p.m., at the Coos Bay Public Library. A link to a recording will be posted here afterward.
Campaign Phone (public)
5419135916
Town Where You Live
Coos Bay
Your Experience/Qualifications
All my adult life I have been focused on education, child welfare, and promoting healthy outcomes for citizens of our community. My years of working in hig poverty schools, board participation in community service organizations, and examining the social determinants of community health have uniquely prepared me for this challenge. It has been a privilege to serve this community in many diverse roles, and I will be honored to continue as a BAH Board member.
County
OR
Term
4 years
Term Expires
2029
I was a teacher, Elementary Principal, served on upwards of 9 Board of Trustees, Wrote curriculum and assessments for the State of Oregon
I believe that our dire financial situation must find a partner to help us resolve the current status. While maintaining "local control" may seem ideal, it does not appear to be possible at this time. Our current administration and board have worked tirelessly to solve the problems, and in good faith have reached out for solutions.
The most urgent challenges are to keep our hospital services viable by finding adequate financial resources. I would continue to be informed about ongoing negotiations, including all partnerships that may help us solve this most challenging dilemma.
Contact Phone
7577492246
Town Where You Live
Coos bay
Your Experience/Qualifications
Former emergency and trauma RN with experience as a charge nurse. Other experience in care management, operating room and as an adjunct teaching LPNs. Degrees in Nursing and Psychology
County
Coos County
As former nurse, I’ve worked across the country and served as a charge nurse at a Level 2 trauma center. My experience spans Care Management, Infusion Clinics, the OR, and teaching LPNs as an adjunct professor. I understand healthcare from the front lines.
Overall, it may bring short-term financial relief—but at the cost of long-term stability. The merger carries a high risk of reduced services, job losses, and loss of local control. Decisions that impact our community’s health should stay in the hands of our community. I believe we can pursue more sustainable, community-driven alternatives that protect both our care and our independence.
The most urgent challenges are financial instability, loss of local control, and community distrust. I support alternative recovery plans that reinvest locally, expand services, improve transparency, and engage the charitable sector. I'll prioritize workforce development, strong local partnerships, and real accountability—because our healthcare system should serve us, not outside interests. My goal is to stabilize our system now while building long-term resilience for the future.
