On Wednesday, December 28th, Steve Bates filed his application to complete the unexpired term of Commissioner Jim Bernard.
Steve Bates was a candidate for Clackamas County Commission Position No. 5 in 2014. Steve Bates received high praise and endorsements from many people and organizations that included The Oregonian, Sandy Post, Gresham Outlook and Estacada News.
He lost to Jim Bernard by 762 votes.
The May 20, 2014 vote count was so close, a sample recount of three precincts was conducted. Steve Bates conceded the close election for Position No. 5 to Jim Bernard on June 19, 2014. Jim Bernard is now stepping down from that position.
Throughout his forty-year business career, Steve Bates showed dedication to his friends, customers, and family. Ultimately, he has been recognized for unparalleled integrity, professionalism, and a work ethic that gets the job done.
Steve Bates received 28,318 county wide votes for the current term of Position 5.
Steve Bates is quoted as follows: “After great contemplation and consultations with several people, I have decided to apply for the county commission. On my application I stated the following five concerns and goals that I wish to pursue:
a) I have a distinct interest in making sure the taxpayer receives the services that they are paying for.
b) I wish to be involved in solving the problem of appropriate and balanced representation; making sure the people of south and east county are represented. I wish to work toward establishing commission districts.
c) Clackamas County should adopt a Home Rule Charter. I wish to work to put this issue on the ballot.
d) Citizen Involvement seems to be waning. I wish to be involved in reinvigorating the current programs.
e) In general, I wish to see our county prepare for a successful future as we pass it on to the next generation.”
A Brief Narrative
Steve Bates’ 40-year career presented many challenges and opportunities.
Bates started out as a paperboy and worked his way into owning his own gas station at the age of 19.
At the young age of 22, Steve was traveling the western states as a Sales Manager.
For the last 20 years of this career, Steve sold fire engines in the Western States.
Upon retirement, Steve got involved with the Boring Community and led them to many accomplishments. He has been involved with veterans’ issues and is chair of the Committee on Memorials & Remembrance. Steve has also been active with the State Legislature introducing several bills and resolutions.
Steve Bates and his wife Betty have two grown children who are married. They have three grandchildren. They have resided in Boring, an unincorporated community of Clackamas County, since 1977.
No Comments
Leave a comment Cancel