As we approach the upcoming Yamhill County Commissioner election on November 5th, 2024, voters will have the opportunity to shape the future of Yamhill County. One Commissioner seat is up for grabs, with two candidates vying for the opportunity to represent their County. Incumbent Chair Lindsay Berschauer from McMinnville is challenged by Newberg resident David “Bubba King.

As the Managing Editor of Yamhill County News, I have reached out to each of these candidates with a series of questions designed to help you, the voters, understand their vision, priorities, and ideas for Yamhill County.  This series will serve as an online “forum,” providing insight into each candidate’s platform. It is especially valuable for those who are unable to attend in-person events due to work, transportation challenges, or other commitments.

Starting Wednesday October 9th, we will publish a two-part series, featuring an article dedicated to each candidate. Each piece will explore their motivations for running, their plans for Yamhill County, and how they aim to address the issues the County faces. The goal is to give you a comprehensive view of what each candidate stands for and how they propose to move Yamhill County forward.

The Questions:

• Budget Management and Fiscal Responsibility: “Yamhill County residents are concerned about balancing the budget without overburdening taxpayers. How will you ensure responsible management of county funds, and are there specific areas where spending can be adjusted to avoid tax increases?”
• Second Amendment and Community Safety: “Many citizens value their Second Amendment rights, while others are concerned about public safety. How would you approach balancing gun rights with the need to ensure safety and prevent violence in Yamhill County?”
• Government Regulation and Local Control: “There is often concern about the impact of state and federal regulations on local governance. How do you plan to ensure that Yamhill County maintains control over local matters while effectively working within broader regulatory frameworks?”
• Supporting Law Enforcement and Addressing Crime: “Public safety is a top priority for Yamhill County residents. How would you support local law enforcement and ensure they have the resources to address challenges like drug-related crime while staying within budget constraints?”
• Approach to Homelessness: “Homelessness is an increasing issue across the county. What is your approach to addressing homelessness in a way that balances providing support for those in need with encouraging self-sufficiency and long-term solutions?”
• Land Use and Property Rights: “Development pressures and zoning regulations can create tension between growth and preserving property rights. How would you approach land use decisions to ensure a balance between the needs of development and the protection of individual property owners’ rights?”
• Non-Partisanship in Local Government: “Yamhill County Commissioner is a non-partisan position, yet voters often wonder how a candidate’s personal or party affiliations might influence their decisions. What does being ‘non-partisan’ mean to you, and how will you ensure that your decisions represent the interests of all constituents, regardless of political affiliation?”
• Efficient Government Operations: “Maintaining an efficient government is essential to providing services without unnecessary expansion. What steps would you take to ensure that Yamhill County’s government operates efficiently while continuing to meet the needs of its residents?”
• Economic Growth and Business Development: “Supporting local businesses is vital to the county’s economy. How would you encourage economic growth and job creation in Yamhill County, and what role should the county government play in reducing barriers for small businesses?”
• Balancing Growth with Rural Heritage: “As Yamhill County grows, how would you balance the need for economic development and new housing with preserving the county’s agricultural roots and rural character?”
• Workforce Development and Education: “A strong local workforce is key to the economic health of Yamhill County. How would you collaborate with local schools, colleges, and businesses to ensure that residents have access to the training and educational opportunities needed for the jobs of the future?”
• Public Health and Emergency Preparedness: “Public health concerns, from pandemics to natural disasters, have been increasingly at the forefront. How would you ensure that Yamhill County is prepared to respond effectively to public health crises and emergencies, while coordinating with state and federal agencies?”
• Infrastructure and Public Services: “As the county grows, so does the demand on infrastructure and public services like roads, water, and sanitation. What are your priorities for improving or maintaining these essential services, and how would you fund these improvements?”
• Affordable Housing and Community Development: “Many Yamhill County residents struggle with the rising cost of housing. How would you work with local governments and developers to promote affordable housing options while ensuring responsible community development?”
• Civic Engagement and Transparency: “Community involvement and transparency are key to effective governance. What specific measures would you take to increase civic engagement and ensure that county government decisions are transparent and accessible to all residents?”

This is your chance to get to know the candidates, learn about their visions, and hear firsthand how they plan to represent Yamhill County. Stay tuned as we dive into their responses and explore what’s at stake in this pivotal election.  First up in the series will be incumbent Lindsay Berschauer.

Link to Day 1: Lindsay Berschauer
Link to Day 2: David “Bubba” King