What does a Deschutes County Commissioner do?

Commissioners do a lot! From policy and advocacy, setting and managing budgets, and enforcing county ordinances, a Commissioner's job is to represent you and your community’s interest at the county level. Commissioners also serve as the governing body for other service districts, like Deschutes County 9-1-1, and work with other local government agencies such as the City of Bend and Redmond.

How long do Commissioners serve?

Commissioners are elected to a four year term. There is no limit on how many terms a Commissioner can serve.

How are Commissioners elected, and where do they live?

County commissioners are elected by the public in a nonpartisan election.

There are currently three commissioners that are elected at large, meaning they represent the entire county and can live anywhere in Deschutes.

If you are interested in learning more about a current proposal to expand the number of Commissioners, we encourage you to visit Represent Deschutes’ website.

Who can vote in County Commission elections?

Any registered voter 18 and older who lives in Deschutes County can vote for County Commission this May. Voting for County Commission is not just for those who live in unincorporated county - but residents of cities like Bend, Redmond, Sisters and La Pine as well! Additionally, because the election is nonpartisan, you do not have to be registered with a political party to cast your vote in May!