Democrat Tibbetts challenges incumbent Roberts for Jackson County commissioner seat

Tibbetts plans campaign launch event on February 15 focused on public safety, affordable housing, and community resilience

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Isabella Lee Tibbetts, a Democrat, is running against incumbent Republican Colleen Roberts for a seat on the Jackson County Board of Commissioners. Tibbetts, a transracial adoptee raised in Jackson County, is planning a campaign launch event on February 15 to discuss her priorities of auditing public safety, modernizing zoning laws for affordable housing, and building a countywide Community Resiliency Network.

Why it matters

This race for the Jackson County commissioner seat represents a challenge to the incumbent Republican by a Democratic newcomer focused on issues of public safety, housing affordability, and community resilience. The outcome could shift the political balance on the county board.

The details

Tibbetts, who is raising two children, says her campaign is "rooted in lived experience and a deep commitment to the future of local families." Her key campaign issues include auditing public safety, modernizing zoning laws for affordable housing, and building a countywide Community Resiliency Network. The primary election is scheduled for May 19, leading to the November general election.

  • The primary election is on May 19, 2026.
  • The general election is on November 3, 2026.
  • The deadline for county/city/district ballot titles is February 27, 2026.
  • The deadline for incumbents to declare their bids for reelection is March 3, 2026.
  • The deadline for 'other than elected incumbent' candidates to file is March 10, 2026.

The players

Isabella Lee Tibbetts

A Democrat running for the Jackson County Board of Commissioners position held by Republican Colleen Roberts. Tibbetts is a transracial adoptee raised in Jackson County and is focused on issues of public safety, affordable housing, and community resilience.

Colleen Roberts

The incumbent Republican Jackson County Commissioner who is seeking reelection.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“My priorities are not political — they are personal. I'm running because I want my children, and every family in Jackson County, to have a safe, affordable and healthy place to live. This campaign is about bringing governance back to ground level — with transparency, accountability and a focus rooted in the needs of our neighbors.”

— Isabella Lee Tibbetts, Candidate for Jackson County Commissioner (Ashland News)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.