Both of Jefferson County's incumbent commissioners cruised to re-election in Tuesday's May 19 primary, while a bond measure that would have funded a new county library was soundly defeated — capping a consequential election night for the county.
Commissioner Races
In Position 1, incumbent Mark Wunsch defeated challenger George Curtiss by a commanding margin of roughly 58% to 40%, with 5,989 total votes cast. Because Wunsch cleared the 50% threshold in the primary, the race is decided — he will not face a general election opponent in November.
Position 2 told a similar story. Incumbent Kelly Simmelink, who has served since 2017, fended off three challengers to win outright with about 54% of the vote. Ara Erdekian came in second with 23.5%, followed by Greg Mead at 15.3% and Bill Atherton at 6.9%. With a clear majority, Simmelink also avoids a November runoff.
Voter turnout was moderate for a primary, with approximately 38% of eligible Jefferson County voters returning their ballots, according to county election officials.
Library Bond Fails Again
The Jefferson County Library District's bond measure — Measure 16-117 — was defeated by a margin of roughly 63% no to 37% yes, with 5,217 votes counted. The bond would have funded construction of a new main library in Madras and a smaller facility in Culver, replacing aging and overcrowded facilities.
This marked the second time in recent years that library expansion has been rejected by voters. Library supporters had revised the plan significantly for this cycle, including a $5 million reduction in total project cost compared to the 2025 bond attempt. Taxpayers owning a $300,000 home would have paid roughly $123 per year under the measure.
Camp Sherman Levies Pass
Two other measures on the Jefferson County ballot fared better. The Sisters-Camp Sherman Rural Fire Protection District levy (Measure 9-182) passed with about 75% voter approval, funding fire, EMS, and wildfire preparedness staffing. The Camp Sherman Road District 18 levy renewal (Measure 16-116) passed even more decisively, with nearly 80% in favor.
Final certified results will be released by Jefferson County election officials in the coming weeks.