On October 14, the Deschutes County Board of Commissioners outlined the process it will use to fill vacancies on the La Pine Park & Recreation District Board following the resignation of all five board members.
The La Pine Park & Recreation District Board oversees recreational activities and programs in La Pine and the surrounding unincorporated communities in southern Deschutes County. The district is a separate governmental entity and has no affiliation with the county, but state law (ORS 198.320) requires that the Board of County Commissioners promptly fill the positions since the governing body’s membership is now fully vacant.
Commissioners approved a selection process that includes having individuals interested in serving on the district board to submit a letter of interest and resume via email to lapineparks@deschutes.org. The application period opens at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, October 15 and closes at midnight on Sunday, October 20. Commissioners will review the applications on Monday, October 21 and Tuesday, October 22, then conduct interviews on Wednesday, October 23 and make direct appointments to all five positions.
Pursuant to the state law, individuals appointed to the La Pine Park & Recreation District Board will serve until the term expires June 30, 2025. The new appointees may choose to run for the office during the next regular district election in May 2025.
The public is invited to attend the Board of Commissioners meeting in person or virtually as they discuss applicants and make their appointments. Board meeting agendas and virtual log in information can be found at deschutes.org/meetings.