Three Crook County judge candidates square off at forum

It was standing room only Tuesday night for the Crook County-Prineville Chamber’s candidate forum. Hundreds of residents gathered at the fairgrounds to see and hear three candidates go head-to-head to persuade residents why they should be the next county judge.

Despite the name, the county judge is not actually a legal judge but rather functions as the presiding officer of the county court — labeled commission in many counties — and helps set county policies, along with the two commissioners.

The forum was a chance to hear all three candidates — Ken Fahlgren, Craig Brookhart and Seth Crawford — as mail ballots are cast in next Tuesday’s primary election.

The candidates were asked a series of questions on key issues facing the county. Moderator Casey Kaiser asked candidates what their highest infrastructure priority is. Fahlgren was first to respond and emphasized the need for a new jail.

“I will make sure we have a jail by the time I finish this process,” Fahlgren said.

Brookhart agreed with the need for a jail, but also mentioned other infrastructure needs, “Why is it after all these years we don’t have a second route out of Juniper Canyon? Why is it that our pool needs to be replaced and we don’t have a plan?”

Crawford agreed with his fellow candidates but also added the need for more multi-use trails and a bigger meeting space.

“We’ve outgrown it already. We need to start building bigger meeting and different community areas,” Crawford said.

The candidates rounded out the night answering more questions on job growth, public health and county finances. Now, it’s ultimately in the hands of voters on who will be the next Crook County judge.

Wednesday is the last day to mail in ballots to make sure they count. Voters are advised to date ballots to the clerk’s office or a drop box. For more information on the candidates, check your voters pamphlet or visit, http://www.co.crook.or.us