Commissioners last week reappointed Reinig to a four-year term as the county’s representative to Gorge Commission. But the vote wasn’t unanimous.

On one hand, an undivided decision can also express undivided support. On the other hand, a divergence of opinion can be a healthy thing; it often seems surprising when a split vote occurs, considering how many significant government decisions are apparently made unanimously. It’s human nature to want some element of constructive disagreement.

A split vote can therefore be a good thing, and no one should expressly fault commissioners Ron Rivers and Les Perkins for voting against Reinig’s reappointment. Perkins had earlier provided specific reasons for supporting another applicant with long experience in agriculture. Rivers’ rationale, reported as of July 6 was harder to grasp:

“Because she has been there for 20 years and after 20 years it was probably time for change to allow another direction to get involved,” Rivers said. “Not performance or anything she has done or hasn’t done.”

Reinig deserves more consideration than that. This week, Rivers clarified his thinking, reiterating that he feels 20 years is long enough, but adding that he feels Reinig has “given less importance” to fostering economic development than she has to protection of scenic and natural resources. These are the two main — and equal — missions of the Gorge Commission.

Rivers also noted that Reinig has not made a practice of reporting directly to the County Board of Commissioners on matters before the Gorge Commission.

Contacted Tuesday, Reinig said in recent years she has reported to County Planning Director Mike Benedict but admitted she should also be speaking directly to the board. We strongly agree.

Reinig disputes Rivers’ claim that she gives less emphasis to economic development of the Gorge, but added that she is confident that given the current makeup of the Gorge Commission, this is something that can be addressed as a group.

With regular visits to the county board, Reinig will have the opportunity to hold a healthy dialogue with Rivers and the rest of the county leadership. Part of politics is grappling with opportunities to change perceptions if not positions. Reinig and Rivers might not see eye to eye, but they share a concern for the welfare of the region.

Reinig was there when the Scenic Act was made law and the Gorge Commission formed. She remembers the early days of public input, as she wrote in the 2001 edition of Hood River News’ Panorama:

“Our first meeting was in a small utility closet in the U.S. Forest Service office. We sat on folding chairs next to boxes and mops. We did not have an office, no staff, and no plan. Our subsequent meetings were held in schools, churches, and gyms — anywhere we could find meeting space. One summer day we sat in a classroom and when the temperature climbed to 102 degrees we went out on the lawn. Another time we were in a windowless gym and there was a power failure but we continued our discussion in total darkness.”