J. Kenneth Jones

Education:
J.D., University of Oregon School of Law (1972) B.A., political science/pre-law, Washington State University (1969)

Professional:
Ken Jones has proudly served fire districts since 1977. In 2003 and 2011, he was awarded the coveted Oregon Fire District Directors "President's Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Fire Service" and the Oregon Fire Chiefs Meritorious Service Award. Ken understands that it is a rare privilege to assist people who save lives for a living. Having incorporated his first Oregon city in 1978, Ken is also Speer Hoyt's senior municipal law attorney, leading its Local Government Law Group. Special districts and cities alike turn to Ken for his breadth of experience, outstanding reputation and practical knowledge. Ken serves as the attorney for the Oregon Fire District Directors Association and the Oregon Fire Chiefs Association. He provides legal services for the Oregon Volunteer Firefighters Association and the National Association of Elected Fire Officials. Ken also offers labor law and employment law experience. He has developed personnel policies and procedures manuals for several Oregon governments and businesses.

Personal:
Before joining Speer Hoyt in 1976, Ken was a Captain (JAG) in the Air Force Judge Advocate's Office for four years. Ken is a frequent lecturer on city, special district and fire district issues, including speaking in August 2010 at the Fire Rescue International Conference. He was co-editor of the initial Oregon Fire District Directors Handbook and authored chapters in later editions. He is a member of the Oregon City Attorneys Association, past chair of the Government Law Section of the Oregon State Bar and has served as director of the Bar's Construction Law Section. Ken's time with his grandchildren now takes precedence over golf.