LAKESIDE, Ore. — The Oregon Supreme Court has upheld a $3.2 million judgment against entities owned by Josephine County Commissioner Chris Barnett and his wife, concluding a major chapter in a long-running legal battle over broken contracts and elder abuse allegations.
At the center of the case is Osprey Point RV Resort, a property in Lakeside, Coos County, which Barnett purchased in 2017 — prior to his election as county commissioner. Before Barnett’s acquisition, the resort’s previous owner had sold “lifetime membership” agreements to residents, many of whom were senior citizens over the age of 65. These memberships, which cost around $6,000 each, were intended to guarantee long-term access to the property and its amenities.
Court documents reveal that Barnett was aware of these contracts at the time of purchase, acquiring the resort at below-market value. However, after taking control of the property, Barnett failed to honor the agreements. This sparked a series of legal actions initiated by affected residents who alleged that Barnett’s actions constituted a breach of contract — and more gravely, elder abuse.
A jury ultimately agreed, awarding $3.2 million in damages to the plaintiffs. That judgment was later challenged in appeals, but the Oregon Supreme Court has now affirmed the lower court’s decision, effectively holding Barnett and his business entities liable.
Despite the high court’s ruling, Barnett maintains that the legal battle is not yet over. In a voicemail response to NBC5 News, the commissioner stated, “I can’t comment on current litigation that’s still going on,” signaling the possibility of further legal maneuvers.
The case has drawn public scrutiny not only because of the financial stakes involved but also due to Barnett’s position as an elected official. Advocacy groups have expressed concern over the treatment of elderly residents and what they view as a failure to uphold ethical business practices.
As legal proceedings continue, it remains to be seen whether Barnett will face additional consequences — either in the courts or in the political arena.