As a resident of Clackamas County, Oregon, I have seen firsthand the power of local politics in shaping our community. From infrastructure and public services to education and community programs, the decisions made by our elected officials have a direct impact on our daily lives. That's why it's important for residents to get involved and have their voices heard in the political process.
Political Landscape of Clackamas County
Before diving into ways to get involved, it's important to understand the political landscape of Clackamas County. As of 2021, the county is led by a Board of County Commissioners, consisting of five elected officials who serve four-year terms.The current commissioners are Chair Tootie Smith, Vice Chair Paul Savas, Ken Humberston, Sonya Fischer, and Mark Shull. In addition to the Board of County Commissioners, there are also various city councils and school boards within Clackamas County that play a crucial role in local politics. These elected officials make decisions that directly impact the daily lives of residents, from infrastructure and public services to education and community programs.
1.Attend Local Government Meetings
One of the best ways to get involved in local politics is by attending government meetings. These meetings are open to the public and provide an opportunity for residents to learn about current issues and voice their opinions. The Board of County Commissioners holds regular business meetings every Thursday at 10:00 am, as well as work sessions on Tuesdays at 10:00 am. In addition to county meetings, it's also beneficial to attend city council and school board meetings in your area.These meetings may be less frequent but are just as important in shaping local policies and decisions. By attending these meetings, you can stay informed and have a say in the direction of your community.
2.Join a Local Political Organization
Another way to get involved in local politics is by joining a political organization in Clackamas County. These groups are made up of like-minded individuals who work together to support candidates and advocate for specific issues. Some examples of political organizations in Clackamas County include the Clackamas County Democrats, Clackamas County Republicans, and the League of Women Voters of Clackamas County. By joining a political organization, you can network with others who share your interests and values, as well as gain valuable knowledge and resources to make a difference in your community.3.Volunteer for a Political Campaign
If you are passionate about a specific candidate or issue, consider volunteering for a political campaign.This could involve canvassing, phone banking, or helping with events and fundraisers. By volunteering, you can directly contribute to the success of a candidate or cause that aligns with your beliefs. Even if you are not able to volunteer for a campaign, you can still show your support by displaying yard signs or bumper stickers. This helps raise awareness and shows others that you are actively involved in local politics.
4.Stay Informed and Educated
In order to make informed decisions and have a meaningful impact on local politics, it's important to stay informed and educated on current issues and policies. This could involve reading local newspapers, attending community forums and events, or following elected officials on social media. It's also important to fact-check information and be open to different perspectives.By staying informed and educated, you can have more productive discussions and make well-informed decisions when it comes to local politics.
5.Run for Office
If you are truly passionate about making a difference in your community, consider running for office yourself. This may seem like a daunting task, but there are resources available to help guide you through the process. The Clackamas County Elections Office provides information on how to run for office, as well as important deadlines and requirements. Running for office allows you to have a direct impact on local policies and decisions, and can be a rewarding experience. Even if you don't win, the experience can be valuable and may inspire others to get involved in local politics as well.Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many ways for residents of Clackamas County, Oregon to get involved in local politics.By attending government meetings, joining political organizations, volunteering for campaigns, staying informed and educated, and even running for office, you can make a difference in your community and shape the future of your county. Remember, your voice matters and your involvement can have a significant impact on the decisions made by political leaders in Clackamas County. So don't be afraid to get involved and make your voice heard!.
