Lianne Thompson, Clatsop County Commissioner – District 5

1. We must take action to preserve our environment for future generations. That’s why I led efforts to protect 1,500 acres of forestland as the Arch Cape Forest and will continue to prioritize forest protections. My priorities are ecologically sustainable economic development – including expanding the use of mass plywood panels to create modular housing – and addressing our water future through a grassroots water inventory of our needs and resources for freshwater, wastewater, and stormwater.
2. To me, environmental justice means actively working to mend the harms done through the exploitation of the planet and of people – particularly BIPOC communities, low-income communities, and women – who have borne the brunt of ecological damage. I started working with impacted communities around the country in the 1970s and carry that work with me to this day to empower our communities so everyone can have a positive impact on their environment.

Kelly Niles, Columbia County Commissioner – Position 2

1. 1. Continue the plan for recreational opportunities started by the current commissioners. We need trails (walking, equine, ATV’s) and infrastructure for those opportunities. If not, then people will go ride wherever they choose which can cause more damage to the forest environment. 2. Be selective about what industry we allow here so as to not cause harm from chemicals or other industry output to the surrounding habitats for all.
2. As I said above, being selective about what industries are allowed locally so as to minimize social and environmental impacts. Work with partners in higher levels of government to strengthen existing laws regarding uses of chemicals by both industry and private homeowners in city and rural settings.

Doris Towery, Yamhill County Commissioner – Position 3

1. Plan for more workforce housing where people work to reduce driving distances that have a significant impact on the environment in Oregon. Work to support cities in how we address water supply issues in our rural areas and failing water systems.

2. Environmental justice means taking into consideration the impact of planning and policy decisions on underserved, marginalized and vulnerable populations to ensure they are not disproportionately impacted in a negative way. I would look for opportunities to make sure historically marginalized and disadvantaged groups’ perspectives and voices are heard in the decision making process.

Scott Bruslind, Linn County Commissioner –  Position 1

1. 1) Climate change mitigation. County services can reduce fossil fuel use in two immediate ways: home weatherization/comfort improvements (expand the Community Services Consortium outreach) and task the Linn County Special/Rural Transportation, Program to integrate its work with the Oregon Make Every Mile Count initiative.
   2) NW Forest Plan review and engagement. Linn County land mass is largely managed by Federal agencies. Improve County-Federal relations for mutual benefit.
2. We must balance a triple bottom line for sustainability- social well-being, economic vitality, environmental stewardship. While everyday folks can speak to advocate for social/economic equity, we rely on specialists to measure environmental impact, and on visionaries to speak for the web of life. Instead of litigation to achieve environmental justice, how about promoting direct experience of the natural world and wide spread commitment to ‘Tread Lightly and Leave no Trace’ as our abiding ethic?

Micky Garus, Polk County Commissioner – Position 2

1. Water. We need to protect our water resources by expanding our conservation efforts and our storage capacity through aquafers and reservoirs. Forest. We need to have better forest management insuring the sustainability and abundance of these renewable resources. We cannot continue to watch our forest burn because of bad timber practices by our government.
2. Environmental Justice is when resources are being harvested without any concern for the impact it has on the surrounding community. Maintaining a clean healthy environment for All people needs to be a priority, and marginalized communities need to be protected.