The May 19 primary election is six days away, and Jefferson County ballots are packed with local races that will shape the direction of county government for years to come. Oregon election officials are urging voters who have not yet mailed their ballots to use a drop box instead, citing slower U.S. Postal Service delivery times.

Commissioner Position 1: Wunsch vs. Curtiss

Incumbent Commissioner Mark Wunsch, who currently serves as commission chair, is facing challenger George Curtiss. Curtiss grew up on Crooked River Ranch and has emphasized a fresh perspective on county priorities. Both candidates participated in a public forum held May 11 at the Camp Sherman Community Hall.

A third candidate, Tony Chard, also filed for the position. If no candidate clears 50 percent of the primary vote, the top two advance to November.

Commissioner Position 2: Simmelink Faces Three Challengers

Incumbent Kelly Simmelink, who has served on the board since 2017, is facing the most crowded race on the ballot. Three challengers — Ara Erdekian, Greg Mead, and Bill Atherton — are competing to advance alongside or unseat Simmelink in November. All four candidates also appeared at the May 11 Camp Sherman forum.

Library Expansion Bond

The Jefferson County Library District is asking voters to approve a bond measure to fund a new, expanded library facility in Madras. The existing building, completed in 2002, is approximately 6,000 square feet — a size library officials say is far too small for current programs and staffing needs. The revised plan was developed after community feedback prompted the board to redesign the proposal, with an emphasis on broader access, community gathering space, and a lower overall cost than an earlier $22.5 million measure.

Supporters say approval means expanded services for the entire district, including Warm Springs, Culver, and Metolius. Letters to the editor have reflected both strong backing and taxpayer skepticism in recent weeks.

Camp Sherman Road District Levy Renewal

The Camp Sherman area road district is asking voters to renew its existing tax levy, which funds local road maintenance. The renewal would continue current funding levels without a tax increase.

How to Vote

  • Ballots must be returned to a drop box or the county clerk's office by 8 p.m. on May 19
  • The Jefferson County Clerk's office will be open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day
  • Drop boxes are located throughout the county — confirm locations at jeffco.net
  • If mailing, election officials strongly recommend using a drop box given USPS delivery delays

Voters' pamphlets for the May 19 primary are available online at the Oregon Secretary of State's website, including Jefferson County-specific measures and candidate statements.

The general election for all candidates who advance — including the Jefferson County Sheriff's race between incumbent Jason Pollock and Tyler Anderson — will be held in November.