October 23, 2023 3:40 a.m.
Douglas County Commissioners Tom Kress, Chris Boice, and Tim Freeman in conjunction with Sheriff John Hanlin and District Attorney Rick Wesenberg are calling for the repeal of the 2020 Oregon Ballot Measure 110, and a return to the enforcement of Federal Drug Laws.
A County release said the group has sent a letter making that request to Governor Tina Kotek, members of the Legislative Assembly, US Attorney Natalie Wight and former US Attorney Billy Williams.
Board Chair, Commissioner Tom Kress said, “In our humble opinion, Measure 110 was touted, promoted and sold to Oregonians in 2020 as a supposed ‘humane solution’ for Oregon’s growing drug epidemic and overcrowded prisons. However, well-intended the measure was, it has not held up to the promises made, and far more serious are the unintended consequences that are wreaking havoc and destroying our communities and our families. The limitations placed on law enforcement and the DA because of Measure 110 has made it impossible for them to effectively control drug use in our County. It has created a society without penalties”.
The release said the letter comes in response to several outcries from the citizens of Douglas County who are concerned with the huge increase and rampant drug use, drug crimes and drug related deaths in their communities.
Additionally, in response to community concerns, the quintet of Douglas County officials, along with DINT Commander Rick McArthur agreed to be part of a panel discussion during a special Town Hall meeting in Yoncalla on October 10th. That meeting was held prior to the Yoncalla City Council meeting and offered residents an opportunity to speak openly and share their concerns with elected officials about the ongoing drug epidemic.
A link to the full letter to state officials is with this story at www.541radio.com