Henderson for County Commissioner

From the national level down to the local level, the public's faith in its government institutions is severely abraded. Perhaps the most important duty of a public official these days is to act in a manner that shores up that wavering faith.

For that reason, voters should elect Phil Henderson Deschutes County Commissioner.

Henderson's background and experience offer an opportunity for the commissioners to connect more fully with the private sector, and his commitment to extensive and consistent public outreach bodes well for ensuring that all voices are truly heard, not just those who have an immediate interest in a particular issue.

Henderson has committed to a regular open house/open meeting/coffees in the various communities and areas of Deschutes County on a regular basis, and that is an important step in connecting the citizens with their county government.

Incumbent Commissioner Alan Unger has done some valuable work for Sisters. The forest health initiative in which he is active has had benefits that are visible on the ground here. But in a couple of instances in Sisters Country, his actions have let constituents down.

His offer of mediation on the controversial issue of a paved trail quickly morphed into advocacy for one side. In acquiescing to the removal of a discussion of airport-related issues from the commissioners' agenda, Unger missed the opportunity to fully understand an issue that is of great concern to his constituents.

For the majority of Sisters Country residents, who live outside municipal boundaries, the county commissioners are their local government representatives. It is critical, especially now, that a commissioner act as the representative of all his constituents, not just of those who have his ear.

Phil Henderson is offering residents of Sisters Country a "fresh look." We should take him up on it.

Jim Cornelius

News Editor