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By Vickie Aldous Mail Tribune October 16. 2014 4:52PM Commissioner's race: Talbert wants to diversify economy Kevin Talbert Kevin Talbert said the most important issues in his candidacy for Jackson County commissioner are economic development and job creation. The former Southern Oregon University chief information officer and director of extended campus programs is challenging Colleen Roberts, the owner of Sensational Sweets bakery, in the Nov. 4 election. The winner will replace Commissioner John Rachor, who is not running for re-election. Talbert said he would continue to support traditional Southern Oregon industries such as forest products, health care and tourism, but wants the county to promote the growing specialty food and high-tech sectors. He said value-added agriculture and specialty foods are a natural fit. He pointed to wineries, craft breweries, niche food manufacturers, cheesemakers and bakeries as examples of businesses in those sectors. "When people talk about why they value living in Southern Oregon, they identify the rural nature of our area," Talbert said. "If we can grow niche agricultural products, we'll be able to keep that rural nature with orchards, vineyards and animals. If the agriculture sector is not viable, we'll see increasing urbanization in the county." He said Jackson County needs to recruit more high-tech companies and help the ones already here grow and succeed. Workforce development is key for the county to be competitive in the 21st century economy, he said. "If businesses can't find qualified people to hire, we won't be competitive," Talbert said. He said county partnerships with area high schools, Rogue Community College and Southern Oregon University would boost educational opportunities and the economy. On the issue of legalizing recreational marijuana — which state voters will decide this November — Talbert said he favors a change from the current approach of criminalizing marijuana. "My question to people is, 'How do you think the current system is working?' Criminalizing marijuana and trying to enforce a ban are not working," he said. Legalization would give government the ability to manage and regulate marijuana, he said. Talbert said commissioners must find the right balance between enforcement of drug laws and preventing and treating substance abuse. He noted the county already has a range of programs to help, including mental health services and transition programs for people leaving incarceration. "We don't want people's first encounter with the county to only be law enforcement. We should focus on prevention to help people not have to see the enforcement side of county services," he said. Reach reporter Vickie Aldous at 541-776-4486 or by email at [email protected]. KEVIN TALBERTTown: AshlandAge: 67Occupation: Retired, formerly Southern Oregon University director of Extended Campus Programs and chief information officerEducation: Doctorate in higher education administrationPrior government experience: SOU, U.S. Army, Peace Corps volunteer  http://www.mailtribune.com/article/20141016/NEWS/141019710 © 2015 Copyright © 1995-2011 Crain Communications Inc. All Rights Reserved. Terms of Use Privacy Statement -->