|
|
Representative Jim Thompson Biography Jim Thompson is a lifelong Oregonian. He grew up in rural Lincoln County, graduated from Taft High School, earned science degrees from Oregon State and Western Oregon University (then Oregon College of Education), and built a successful career in plant sciences. His wife Helga is a retired science teacher and nationally recognized education consultant. They have two grown children and three grandchildren. Jim and Helga celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary this last year. Jim has spent his professional life working for laboratories developing technologies that use local agriculture products to treat asthma and allergies. Speaking of improving lives – Jim was also a certified EMT (retired) and previously served as the Chair of the County Fire District #1 Board. In 2004, Jim was appointed state Representative by the county commissioners when Representative Lane Shetterly resigned. While Jim’s appointment was only for a 9 month term he was proud of the work he did to assist people struggling through problems with state government. He gained many new friends among people he individually helped work through challenges with state agencies. Jim also served on the Monmouth City Council in the 1980’s and is very involved in groups working on health care reform in Oregon. He serves on the Oregon Health Care Volunteer Advisory Committee, Health Safety Net Advisory Committee, and the Public Health Logistics Workgroup. On November 4th 2008 Jim was elected as Representative of District 23, which includes the communities of Alsea, Dallas, Falls City, Halsey, Harrisburg, Jefferson, Monroe, Rickreall, Sheridan, and Willamina. He continually looks forward to serving these communities to the best of his abilities, and is committed to his goals of a strong job market and economy. During the 2011 -13 legislative term, Jim will serve as the Co-Chairman of the Health Care Committee, Co Vice Chair of the Human Services Committee and a member of the Energy, Environment and Water Committee which give him the opportunity to preside over issues important to the people of District 23. |
