How Mark is currently involved and serving Josephine County:
Rural Planning Commission
Commissioner serving as Vice Chair
The RPC has final jurisdiction over land use matters as specified in County Law for the areas outside the Urban Growth Boundary. The Commission also reviews and makes recommendations regarding zone changes, comprehensive plan map amendments and site-specific changes. The Commission consists of nine members. The members are all from different geographical areas within the County.
Josephine Housing and Community Development Council
Councilor serving as Vice Chair
The JHCDC administers the federally funded, Section 8 Tenant-Based Assistance programs for Josephine County, Their purpose is to provide low-income residents with opportunities to obtain affordable housing and achieve self-sufficiency. In general, the Board members set the direction and tome of the JHCDC. They give direction to the Executive Director, as necessary, and review situations brought to their attention. The Board is responsible for the decisions they make in their capacity as Board members. The Board reviews, sets and amends policies for general operation, reviews new programs, and decides whether or not to apply for them, reviews regular program reports submitted by staff at monthly meetings, etc.
Merlin Community Park
Board Member
The Merlin Community Park in Southern Oregon was established in 1982, as a non-profit organization formed to develop recreational opportunities and community focus, particularly to the Northern Josephine County area. The park features a Picnic Area with Bar B Q Pits, a community center with restroom facilities that are open to all citizens, visitors and tourists. The park is open from sunrise to sunset and overnight camping is not allowed. The Park Board, elected by the residents of the Merlin Community Park District, manage the Park with the help of volunteers and donations from the greater Rogue Valley.
The park is also home of the Veterans Walk Of Honor which stands as a living monument to honor those who protect our precious freedoms. In 2003, local volunteers took the initiative to design and construct this unique venue to recognize all military personnel who now serve, or have served in any branch of the United States Armed Services, including Merchant Marines. Funding for the monument was provided by non-governmental sources including individuals, corporations and community-based groups.
Rotary International
Member serving as Foundation Director
Rotary is a global network of 1.4 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.
Grants Pass and Josephine County Chamber of Commerce
Member
The Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce has worked to support its mission to be a vital strategic partner creating resources and opportunities for member success, quality of life, engagement and meaningful impact. The Chamber encourages business development, support, retention, and recruitment through community development, information dissemination, and issues management.
Fire Safety Citizens Group
Member since 2021
This group was formed in late 2020 to support the efforts of forming a Fire District in the Unprotected area of Josephine County. The group vetted and promoted five highly qualified individuals to run for Board Members on the proposed Fire District. Since there was lack of voter support for this measure, the district was not formed and 350 square miles of Josephine County is still without a fire district today. The Fire Safety Group meets twice a month to discuss current issues and concerns developing in all areas of Josephine County. All current Fire Districts, the City of Grants Pass, and Private Fire Service Providers are represented in this group.