I just got my primary ballot in the mail. It basically has nothing on it b/c I'm independent, and it's a closed election. Plus, not much goes on in this county (it's our home of record, hence why we're still voters there).
However, there's this pressing matter. The whole county has like 40,000 people, so I can't imagine what prompted this.
MEASURE 4-155PROHIBITS DISPLAY OF ELEPHANTS, EXOTIC ANIMALS IN UNINCORPORATED CLATSOP COUNTYSummary: This measure would prohibit exhibitions, circuses, photographic opportunities, parades, or similar undertakings in which elephants or exotic animals are required to perform tricks, fight or participate in performances for the amusement or entertainment of an audience. It would apply to any public or private property in the unincorporated area of Clatsop County. Certain educational and zoological institutions are exempted. Exotic animals are defined in ORS 609.305 and include specified members of the family Felidae (cats), specified members of the family Canidae (dogs), non-human primates, specified bears, and the order Crocodylia.

Re: oregon's important political issues
The only thing I can think of that this *might* apply to, is that there's a Wildlife Safari type place in Southern Oregon (by Coos Bay, on the way to Crater Lake ish? I haven't been there since I was a kid) it's like a drive through Zoo...I don't know if that's Clatsop County though?
Anyway I would totally support that bill, I can't think of any legit reason why someone would *need* to have elephants on display or especially fighting, ya know?
ETA: Pretty sure this is the place I'm thinking of: http://www.wildlifesafari.net/
I have a feeling I'll vote for it, too. I hate circuses and roadside zoos. Hell, I don't even want to go to the Honolulu zoo.
Jen, Clatsop is north coast, Astoria, Seaside, Canon Beach, etc.
I'm mostly curious what prompted this b/c it just seems so random, even if it's a good idea. It's small town politics, so I'm guessing there's some level of personal vendetta in there somewhere. I'm picturing some fogey with a backyard crocodile to scare kids
There are crazy people all over the country keeping exotic animals in their backyards/basements. It's a serious problem. The bill may have been prompted by someone who has a stupid neighbor keeping a tiger in a horse trailer or a grizzly bear in a dog kennel.
Next time you're in Colorado, come visit us at The Wild Animal Sanctuary. We rescue and provide a place for many of these animals rescued from all over the country. In the mean time, if you want to see a good documentary about the problem, check out The Elephant in the Living Room.