As you may be aware, the Clackamas County Commission is in the process of filling the vacancy in Seat 4. Your input is needed to ensure that the nomination is the result of a fair and transparent process.
The remaining Commissioners met recently and agreed on a broad outline for the process.
- The Commissioners will announce the vacancy and take applicants.
- They are leaning towards public meetings to interview the applicants.
- They will choose one person from among the applicants to fill the seat until January of 2027
- A special election will be held in 2026 to determine who fills the seat from Jan.2027-Jan. 2029.
There is push to limit applicants to rural candidates as opposed to opening the field to all county citizens. If you disagree with this approach, then please contact the commissioners at: bcc@clackamas.us
The sample letter below is for you to personalize, if you so desire.
Subject: Nomination Process for Seat 4
Dear Clackamas County Commissioners,
As you undertake the task of filling Seat 4, I trust that the process will reflect the will of all the voters in our county. My understanding is that the Commissioners are establishing a process that offers transparency and public involvement, both of which are necessary for the public to maintain confidence in our county governance.
I urge you not to limit applicants to a specific group of people, particularly the suggestion to allow only rural candidates to apply. Such a process would disenfranchise a large portion of our community and undermine the democratic foundations of our county government.
Voters have already made it clear that they do not want Mark Shull or Tootie Smith representing them and I hope the Commissioners honor the will of the voters.
Thank you for your time and public service and I trust that your final decision will uphold the values of our community and ensure fair representation for all.
Sincerely,
<Your Name>
<Your Address>