Correcting Voter Pamphlet Errors
on Justice Levy Vote
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By Gil Gilbertson
Josephine County Sheriff

In the voter’s pamphlet for the May 15 primary election, the section on Measure 17.43 (the so-called “Criminal Justice Levy”) contains some factual errors that deserve correction.

In the “Argument Against,” it is suggested that local government “has done little to curb rampant spending.” This is untrue. Since 2007, the Sheriff’s Office has taken a number of steps to improve efficiency while increasing service levels. In the process, we have saved the community approximately $12 million.

It is likewise inaccurate to say that the levy’s purpose is to “advocate for an increase” in taxes to maintain the “status quo.” Even if the levy passes, the Sheriff’s Office may need to lay off up to12 deputies over the next four years. The funding level sought by the levy represents a reduction of approximately 20% compared to what would be required to maintain current levels of service. The levy seeks the minimum funding required to support mandated and necessary services to protect public safety, on a temporary basis, until a permanent, stable alternative source of funding is established. Keep in mind we are not currently a fully 24/7 service.

Finally, County Clerk candidate Sandi Cassanelli promulgates a false claim, that the Sheriff’s Office actually accelerated spending rates to consume four years of federal subsidy funds within three years. Fellow County Clerk candidate Dale Matthews and County Commissioner candidate Mark Seligman publicly support her in this misrepresentation.

The actual budget figures, readily available from the Josephine County CFO, clearly show that funds were carried over from year to year in such a way that four years of funding were actually spread beyond their original budgeting period. Indeed, the budget for this coming fiscal year includes $2.3 million of carryover funding of this type. The Sheriff’s Office more efficiently managed our resources in such a way as to stretch the funding available to cover a longer period than originally envisioned.

These are candidates for public office, purposefully advancing misinformation. The figures to counter their claims are in the public record. If this is an example of their ability to research the facts, pay attention to details, and extrapolate information, I would encourage the County’s voters to consider whether they believe these candidates possess the necessary qualifications to lead our County into an uncertain future.

Ask for the actual budget figures yourself. They are easily obtained.

Finally, a simple and accurate way to estimate the impact the levy will have on your own property taxes can be found on the County’s website. Simply type in your address for the answer.

Editor’s Note: While the US~Observer respects Sheriff Gil Gilbertson and holds him in the highest regard, we don’t support any form of property tax. Property taxes violate a property owner's constitutional rights. We also don’t support giving Josephine County District Attorney Stephen Campbell any public money, whatsoever. He is a corrupt prosecutor who has factually attempted to falsely convict innocent people.

Gil Gilbertson asked to get his message out and the US~Observer provided the space out of respect for our Sheriff.

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