Michael Lees
Values & Motivation
Do you personally support or oppose the move to Home Rule? Why or why not?
I do not support Home Rule because it seems to be rushed into a vote by the commissioners instead of the people.
Why do you want to serve on the Home Rule Charter Commission?
I want to be the safety net for the citizens of Douglas County. There are many things that could be added to this charter that do not server the people of our county.
What do you see as the most important values that should guide the charter-writing process?
The overarching value for all of this should be good governance. Everything added to the charter should be viewed through the lens of 'how is item good for the people'.
Approach to Governance & Representation
How would you ensure that the charter reflects the needs of all Douglas County residents - not just those in power or politically aligned?
This first step would be speaking out to the other members. If possible, I would push to be one of the leaders in the meetings/committees if possible. I would also bring questionable items to the people of Douglas County.
Checks and Balances
Should the County Commissioners have the power to appoint any or all elected positions such as Commissioner, Sheriff, Clerk, Assessor, Treasurer, Coroner, and/or Surveyor without a public vote as well as other boards such as library board, planning commission, water commission and others?
No. This practice would go against the fundamental idea that the people have the power and should have a say in how their government is run. Transparency earns trust and goodwill of the people which would also open the door for more community involvement.
Would you support or oppose charter provisions that limit the consolidation of power into the hands of a few officials?
Absolutely oppose the consolidation of power.
Resistance to Extremism
How would you respond if fellow commissioners proposed changes that would reduce public input, centralize control, or limit democratic participation?
I would be forced to stand up to those commissioners that proposed any of those things. I would bring these proposals out into the open with the public to expose
Community Engagement
What specific steps would you take to engage residents across the political spectrum, including those who may not trust this process?
There are many was to accomplish it. One way is to attend the events around the county. Another is Letters to the Editor in local publications. Any possibility is friends of friends.
Are there any community groups, institutions, or individuals you believe should be involved in shaping or reviewing the charter?
As many as possible. Even those groups that I do not agree with should be able to review and comment on the charter because it ultimately should be a decision made by everyone.
Against home rule
YES
If home rule initiative passes, are in favor of...
Do you believe the Board of County Commissioners should retain sole authority over appointing library trustees, rather than allowing an independent library board to do so?
NO
Do you believe Douglas County should use Home Rule to opt out of the state minimum wage?
NO
Should the future Home Rule charter grant the County discretionary power to regulate local elections differently from state standards (e.g., voting access, procedures)?
NO
Do you oppose converting currently elected county positions—such as sheriff, coroner, or clerk and recorder—into appointed positions under a Home Rule charter?
NO
Do you support preserving current term limits for county commissioners and other elected officials and maintaining current campaign finance law any future Home Rule charter?
YES
In a future home rule charter, should the state, not county commissioners, retain the sole authority to approve changes to elected officials’ compensation?
YES
Do you support expanding the number of commissioners to 5, with 3 of them being elected by district and 2 at large?
YES
Are you prepared to stand alone, if necessary, to defend principles of transparency and fair representation?
YES
Is there anything else you would like voters to know?
I am ready to hit the ground running if it passes. I will be doing my best to represent everyone in Douglas County.