Tumalo businessman Barbeau seeks Deschutes board seat
Ed Barbeau, owner of Pisano’s Woodfired Pizza in Tumalo and former private investigator, announced Friday his candidacy for Deschutes County Commissioner Position #1, running against incumbent Tony DeBone in the upcoming Primary Election.
Barbeau previously ran for the office in 2010, narrowly defeated by current Commissioner Tammy Baney. Since then, Ed has followed the workings and decisions of the commissioners and city governments closely and said in Friday’s announcement news release he sees the need for more business-minded leadership and experience at the county level.
“My perspective has both been expanded and sharpened since 2010. Important livability issues still face our county including housing and the loss of businesses. We can’t continue sacrificing existing businesses and relationships while focusing primarily on trends and hot-button issues. I have the insight and broad business relationships to serve our community in this area.”
Among the issues Ed cares passionately about are housing, regional infrastructure, and workforce investments of education, money, and relationships.
“With our four-year college campus plan now underway, and expanded technical education opportunities, we’ve made great progress towards creating workforce-ready residents. Infrastructure and livability issues still need attention, and we must ensure there are Oregon Jobs for Oregon Graduates. Decisions made by the existing commissioners are having long-term impact and distractions to the region. We need to be more dynamic in discussions and planning with the leaders of companies. When my granddaughters enter the workforce, they’ll need to know that we used good judgment in preparing for their future.”
Federal and state decisions and inconsistency regarding cannabis and hemp continue to provide a difficult landscape for politicians. “We need experienced business leaders making decisions in the best interest of the county, not just popular political opinion and trends. Inaction and uncertainty by our commissioners have had an immediate impact on land usage and law enforcement, and distracted our focus from our regional strengths. We can do better.”
Voters can learn more about Ed and his position on local issues by visiting his campaign site at edforcommissioner.com, through the Voter’s Pamphlet, or at upcoming debates.
