Central Oregon Open Programming (COOP), a program of Connect Central Oregon, will host an in-depth interview with newly appointed Deschutes County Sheriff Ty Rupert. The interview will be recorded on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, and published on COOP’s YouTube channel, @CentralOregonOpenProgramming, the same evening.
Moderated by Jim Fister, Co-Founder of Connect Central Oregon and a prior facilitator/interviewer for COOP’s candidate forums and the interview with Sheriff Van der Kamp, the conversation will explore immediate priorities for the Sheriff’s Office, including staffing and retention, training and accountability, budget stewardship, and community engagement.
Why this conversation matters: This interview offers the public an opportunity to learn more about Sheriff Rupert as a person—context that typically emerges during a full election cycle. In this appointment process, most public-facing information has come through the Deschutes County Sheriff Employees Association forum, Rupert’s written application to the Board of County Commissioners, and a brief commission meeting with limited discussion. COOP’s interview is designed to help the community hear directly from Rupert about his background, values, and approach to leading the Sheriff’s Office.
How to Watch
- Where: COOP on YouTube — @CentralOregonOpenProgramming
- Availability: Wednesday evening, August 20, 2025 (PT)
- Replay: The full interview will remain available on the channel after publication.
Share a Question
Community members are encouraged to suggest questions and topics in advance by emailing decision@connectcentraloregon.org with the subject line “Sheriff Interview.” Please include your name, city, and any relevant affiliation.
Public Contact (Program)
Central Oregon Open Programming (COOP)
Email: coop@connectcentraloregon.org
About COOP (Central Oregon Open Programming)
COOP is a program of Connect Central Oregon that provides community-driven, hands-on learning experiences through menternships, storytelling, and public programming. COOP emphasizes real-world skill development, industry exposure, and meaningful engagement between individuals and professionals. Video content and program highlights are featured on YouTube at @CentralOregonOpenProgramming.
About Connect Central Oregon
Connect Central Oregon champions community engagement and mentoring through four pillars: Volunteerism, Mentoring, Innovation, and Partnerships. Serving Crook, Deschutes, and Jefferson Counties, as well as Warm Springs, Connect Central Oregon is the toolbox for regional businesses, organizations, and individuals looking to mobilize community efforts or take them to the next level. Learn more at connectcentraloregon.org.
