Kings Valley resident Pat Malone filed paperwork Thursday to run for a third term on the Benton County Board of Commissioners. The Position 1 seat is included on the ballot for the May 19 primary election.
As of Thursday, Malone was the only Democrat Party candidate for the four-year term. No Republican candidates have filed yet.
“As county commissioner, I’ve enjoyed working hard on the important investments we’ve made here in Benton County,” Maloe said in a press release. “These investments include progressive and innovative solutions in behavioral health, housing and aging infrastructure. Another term would allow me to continue working with a great county team on existing and new projects.”
Malone stated that his priorities also include long-term planning.
“Like many small business owners, I have had to manage our tree farm’s finances and live with the consequences of my decisions,” he said. “I bring my tree farm experience of planning in 10- to 80-year cycles to the county to push for long-term solutions.”
Malone owns Sunrise Tree Farm in Kings Valley. His education background includes bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Oregon. He has an extensive history of public service on various committees and boards.
Malone expressed a desire to continue progress on behavioral health, housing and infrastructure projects. That support has included the county’s new crisis center and backing for transitional housing projects.
Additional priorities include expanding bike and pedestrian paths as transportation alternatives, including a connector to the Greenbelt Land Trust overpass crossing Highway 99W.
“I would not be running if I didn’t believe that the work needs to continue. During these historic and challenging times, when people are struggling, experience matters,” Malone said, adding that his understanding of county operations and budgets is essential to the role.