THE GORGE — Oregon’s Primary Election Day is May 19, and registered voters can expect ballots to be mailed on April 29.
For those not registered, or for those who wish to change party affiliation, the last day to do so is April 28. New voters can register online at oregonvotes.gov or in person at local election offices or the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
The official results for this election will be posted on June 12.
Note: Columbia Gorge News will run candidate Q&As for local contested races in an upcoming edition.
Below are local candidates and ballot measures; for state races, visit www.sos.oregon.gov/elections and click “upcoming elections.”
Hood River County
Three county commission seats are on the ballot, all uncontested: Commission Chair Jennifer Euwer, District 1 Commissioner Leti Valle Moretti, and District 3 Commissioner Ed Weathers.
There are two measures for Hood River Valley Parks and Recreation District (HRVPRD) voters:
• Measure 14-83 — Bonds to construct a rebuilt aquatic center. If this measure is approved, HRVPRD will use proceeds for capital costs related to the construction of a similar-sized replacement aquatic center. The district would establish a citizen oversight committee. The estimated annual average tax rate is approximately 64-cents per $1,000 of assessed property value.
• Measure 14-84 — Five-year levy for park maintenance, operations, and recreation services. This measure would preserve current service levels and programming; the district is facing a budget shortfall due to revenues not keeping pace with inflation, rising costs, increased responsibilities, and no change to the tax rate. Funds would be subject to annual audits and board oversight. The maximum rate is 33-cents per $1,000.
There are two county commission seats on the ballot, all contested.
• County commissioner, position 1: Lisa Gambee, Nichole Biechler, Robb E. Van Cleave, and John Grant. Incumbent Scott Hege did not file for re-election.
• County commissioner, position 3: Incumbent Phil Brady, Mike Urness, and Dick Schaffeld.
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