Madras redevelopment commissioner resigns, citing city issues and lack of transparency

MADRAS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Following her April 15th resignation as commissioner of the Madras Redevelopment Commission, Janine Metteer is now citing issues that she felt were "above my pay grade" in a Madras Pioneer interview.

Metteer expressed frustration with what she described as a lack of transparency and a disconnect between city priorities and community needs. She also raised concerns about city spending and growing debt.

Metteer, who grew up in Madras, told the paper she felt she could have more impact by leaving her position than by staying. She pointed to a perceived decline in local businesses and neighborhoods in the city.

The news comes as KTVZ has reported on several high-profile departures, including the recent departure of an interim city administrator, the continuing struggle to appoint a new police chief, and the resignation of the city's finance director.

However, the news is not all bad in the Jefferson County area. The county has seen significant economic improvement, moving from the state's most economically distressed county in 2023 to the eighth position in a new report.

Metteer is encouraging residents to get involved and speak up at city council meetings.