Letters to the Editor, Week Dec. 18

Deschutes County Commission’s Not So Funny Comedy of Errors

Oh, the irony!

Last Wednesday [Dec. 3], I watched with incredulity as Patti Adair and Tony Debone called for public comment in a room full of interested citizens they themselves had silenced. Per The Source, “Adair requested that a public hearing be held [emphasis added] before any decision-making by the Board, which DeBone seconded.” This move shocked those of us present. Debone had earlier claimed there was no fair way to hear from the people who were present and who were befuddled by his failure to see the obvious. “Email me,” he said, glibly, as if we in the room were merely holograms.

The issue at hand? The District Mapping Advisory Committee’s Map C.

Democracy depends on fair processes. By relying on voter rolls instead of updated census data, Map C disenfranchises voters and disadvantages non-voting residents. DMAC committee member and former Commissioner Phil Henderson claimed not to understand this point when Commissioner Phil Chang brought it up. (Hard to believe since Mr. Henderson is quite familiar with electoral politics.) The result is what many critics see as the desperate power grab of ideologues out of touch with the majority of folks here.

Deschutes County deserves better. As a longtime civics educator and County resident, I call on our County Commission to course correct. Before a map is put before the voters, let the voters decide if a map is even necessary. Then, if our County needs districts – a BIG if – let them be drawn fairly, impartially, and with accurate data.

—Amy Sabbadini

Endorsements Should Be Earned

I believe that making the choice to endorse a candidate is not always the best decision and that withholding endorsements becomes a more responsible strategy. I say this because it gives time to evaluate candidates thoroughly which is rarely done in elections. Doing so gives one an opportunity to determine for themselves if a candidate reflects their values, truly understands the communities they will be serving, demonstrates competence and integrity required for the position, and has a background that’s conducive to the job requirements.

An endorsement sends a signal to the community that a particular candidate or candidates reflects the values of the endorser and that of the communities they will be serving. Endorsements also suggest that a candidate fully understands the priorities and is prepared to lead with competence and accountability. In any and all elections the goal should be to determine who will advance the well-being of all citizens in Deschutes County and uphold the principles we claim we stand for. Being selective and thoughtful in this process will ensure that your voice remains strong and trustworthy in this civic process. At this time more than ever we need a county commission that demonstrates honesty, integrity and character. We need a county commission that stands boldly and unapologetically on issues that actually serve the communities such as educational equity and affordable housing. My constituents trust my judgement, and I will not compromise that trust for convenience, pressure, or political theater.

I believe and support BIPOC advocacy because those in this category are often left out and ignored. The BIPOC community ARE citizens of Central Oregon and they contribute to the success of Deschutes County in various ways. Too often they aren’t recognized or acknowledged during elections which is the case now. The POTUS demonized DEI, and some local leaders used this demonization as an opportunity to dismantle anything affiliated with DEI which in turn causes an impact on BIPOC opportunities as well. If a candidate cannot clearly and confidently stand up for the BIPOC community in Deschutes County, they are not fit for leadership in my opinion because they are already failing the basic test of their oath. Public office requires a commitment to serve ALL residents, not just the comfortable majority. Leaders who hesitate to defend marginalized communities abandon their moral responsibility and their sworn duty to protect the rights, safety, dignity of every constituent. A candidate who finds it difficult to uphold equity cannot uphold their oath, and a leader who refuses to stand with those most often ignored cannot be trusted to serve the entire community. By hearing BIPOC voices in local leadership and policy making, it highlights the strength and creativity these communities bring to Central Oregon. Do not dismiss them as “hidden figures” because their votes will count as well.

—Clifford B. Evelyn Sr.

Bend Considers Adding a Fee to Discourage Natural Gas in New Homes

Let’s see, just another factor for the cost of housing and exploding rental fees. Examples: Kotek and her liberal surrogates declare the entire state of Oregon is in a Wildfire Wilderness zone. Insurance companies aren’t supposed to use this declaration for insurance rate increases but, in reality, they do — home insurance costs have skyrocketed. Effect: homeowners will pay more for insurance and pass that along in rent increases to tenants.
Bend’s city council pursues their “no fossil fuel folly” costing more in building codes to rid of natural gas. Result, more costs to builders, tenants, city residents and rents will increase.
When will the city charge bicyclists for the changes made to city streets to accommodate bicyclists? It’s cost the city tons of money for designing bike lanes with reflectors, rubber isolation posts, special snow removal gear for the bicycle lane and tons of engineering costs to accommodate bicycles. Where some of Bend’s city streets allowed parking, these arterials now only allow auto and bicycle access, no on street parking. NE Purcell reflects this change. Now, side streets are further cluttered with parked cars. When will bicyclists pay?

—Neil Ripsch

This article appears in the Source December 18, 2025.