April 22, 2026 | 6:00 PM | Chehalem Cultural Center, Newberg
Meet the Candidates: Q&A
Kit Johnston
1. Tell us a little about yourself and what experiences have prepared you to serve as a County Commissioner.
I am a 30-year Yamhill County farmer, a business owner, and a lifelong Oregonian. I am truly invested in this county, and I want it to be a place where businesses and families can thrive. My experiences as a farmer have given me extensive knowledge of land use laws and our county’s $418 million agricultural economy. As a business owner, I am personally invested in making sure Yamhill County has the infrastructure needed for smart economic growth that encourages businesses to come here, stay here, and provide opportunities for high-wage careers. I am a huge advocate for CTE, FFA, and 4-H programs that foster leadership skills and a strong work ethic for our future generation.
For the past three years, I have served as Yamhill County Commissioner. I have encouraged open communication with the community through monthly “Chat with the Chair” meetings after daytime working hours. I have leveraged my own equipment and resources to help our parks and our fairgrounds. I added cities and Chambers of Commerce into the liaison duties for commissioners in order to improve communication and foster relationships that can help drive programs, planning, and economic development across the region…