PRINEVILLE, OR -- Crook County’s newest Commissioner was sworn in Monday. County Judge Seth Crawford says Brian Barney was selected as the best candidate out of the 10 who applied for the vacancy.
"He has just extensive background in business, in ranching, in development, he was a Sheriff’s Deputy, he’s been the chair of the Prineville Memorial Board for 15 years; just kind of a smorgasbord of experiences in his life," Judge Crawford tells KBND News. That skill set is exactly what he and Commissioner Jerry Brummer were looking for, "Right now, what we need to fill is the areas of health and human services and law enforcement. That’s kind of the liaison person that we need."
Barney joins Commissioner Jerry Brummer, who was elected in November. Crawford says it’s a benefit to have two-thirds of the court comprised of new Commissioners. "We’ve been really working hard to set up policy and procedures that haven’t been set up there. And, I think sometimes bringing a fresh eye on their organizations and ideas just gives you such an advantage to look at it a little differently, and I think everything’s been running really smoothly."
Judge Crawford says now the court is ready to get to work on the county’s priorities. "Jobs, of course are on the top, natural resources, and long-term budget planning and professionalizing the county. I’ve already worked with Jerry [Brummer] and we’ve hired Andy Parks, the guy that does long-term budget planning for the city and has worked them into a position where they’re getting award winning budgets. So, we’re working with him to start implementing steps to get us there."
Commissioner Barney takes over the seat vacated by Crawford's election to Judge in November. He's expected to take part in his first regular meeting on Wednesday. To hear our full conversation with Seth Crawford, visit our Podcast Page or click HERE.
