
Meet Chet Wamboldt
Candidate for Deschutes County Commissioner
Chet Wamboldt is a devoted father, community leader, and 15-year Bend resident committed to strengthening the future of Deschutes County. With deep roots in Central Oregon and a passion for public service, Chet is running for County Commissioner to help keep our region a safe, thriving, and family-friendly place to call home.
A Proven Record of Service
Chet spent many years serving as a firefighter, gaining firsthand experience in emergency response, wildfire management, and community safety. Today, he works as a risk assessor, helping organizations make strategic decisions to protect people, property, and natural resources. His background gives him a unique, practical understanding of the challenges Deschutes County faces as wildfire seasons grow longer and more intense.
In addition to his professional work, Chet holds a leadership role at his church, where he helps support local families and strengthen community connections.
Focused on What Matters Most
Chet is committed to:
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Improving fire preparedness and public safety
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Expanding access to quality, affordable child care
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Supporting responsible growth and long-term community resilience
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Strengthening our local business climate
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Maintaining Deschutes County as a great place to raise a family
Why Chet is Running
Chet believes Deschutes County deserves leaders who understand the community, listen carefully, and make decisions rooted in real-world experience. His blend of public safety expertise, risk-management knowledge, and community leadership prepares him to tackle the challenges ahead with integrity, compassion, and common sense.
Chet Wamboldt’s Vision for Deschutes County
Tackling Today’s Challenges, Building Tomorrow’s Future
As a father, community leader, and longtime resident of Bend, Chet Wamboldt knows firsthand what makes Deschutes County such a special place to live — and the challenges we face as we grow. Chet is committed to working for solutions that strengthen our community, support families, and keep Deschutes County a great place to live and work for years to come. Below are the key issues Chet will prioritize as County Commissioner.
1. Public Safety and Fire Preparedness
Protecting our homes, families, and resources.
With years of experience as a firefighter and risk assessor, Chet understands the critical need to prioritize fire preparedness in Deschutes County. As wildfires become an ever-greater threat to our region, Chet will advocate for:
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Improved wildfire response and prevention programs to protect our homes and public lands.
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Better coordination between local fire departments, first responders, and emergency management to ensure faster and more effective action during emergencies.
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Investing in fire resilience measures that protect our communities from the growing threat of wildfires.
Chet is committed to ensuring that Deschutes County has the resources and plans in place to keep us all safe.
2. Supporting Families through Accessible Child Care
Helping families thrive with affordable, quality child care.
As a father, Chet understands how challenging it can be to balance work, family, and child care. Access to affordable, high-quality child care is essential for both families and the local economy. Chet supports:
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Increasing access to affordable child care options for working families.
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Supporting local child care providers to help meet the growing demand and ensure providers can offer quality care.
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Working with local businesses to support employee benefits that address child care needs, creating a more family-friendly environment in our workforce.
Chet believes that when families have the support they need to care for their children, they are more likely to thrive—and that makes for a stronger community overall.
3. Responsible Growth and Infrastructure
Building for the future while preserving what makes us unique.
Deschutes County is growing quickly, and managing that growth is crucial to maintaining the quality of life we all enjoy. Chet will work to ensure that growth is sustainable, responsible, and aligned with community needs:
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Planning for infrastructure improvements to keep up with the growing population, including roads, water systems, and public transportation.
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Ensuring that new developments align with the values of the community, with an emphasis on preserving our natural beauty and rural lifestyle.
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Supporting affordable housing initiatives that allow families and workers to live in Deschutes County without being priced out of the market.
Chet believes we can grow without losing the things that make Deschutes County such a wonderful place to live.
4. Strengthening Local Businesses
Fostering a vibrant economy with opportunity for all.
Deschutes County is home to a diverse range of businesses, from outdoor recreation companies to innovative tech startups. Chet believes in supporting our local businesses by:
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Creating a welcoming environment for small businesses and entrepreneurs, with streamlined regulations and access to resources.
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Supporting workforce development programs that equip local workers with the skills they need to succeed in an ever-changing economy.
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Promoting tourism and outdoor recreation as key drivers of our local economy while maintaining a balance with environmental stewardship.
Chet will be a champion for local businesses, working to create an economy where everyone can succeed.
5. Enhancing Community Health and Well-being
Prioritizing mental health, wellness, and community support.
As a longtime resident, Chet knows that a healthy, strong community starts with taking care of its people. That’s why Chet is committed to:
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Expanding mental health services to ensure that every resident has access to the care they need.
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Supporting programs that promote physical and emotional well-being for all ages, including seniors, youth, and families.
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Fostering a sense of community and belonging by encouraging volunteerism and supporting local organizations that serve our neighbors.
Chet believes that building a healthier, more connected community benefits everyone.
Why These Issues Matter to Chet
As a father and a longtime member of this community, Chet’s priorities are shaped by what he knows is important to all of us: safety, opportunity, and the ability to raise a family in a thriving, supportive environment. Chet is committed to working for solutions that keep Deschutes County a great place to live, work, and raise a family.
