GP City Council Selects 2 Downtown Locations for Temporary Homeless Camping Sites

Under a court-imposed deadline, the Grants Pass City Council last night selected two locations in the downtown area for temporary campsites for unhoused people. In a 6-to-1 vote, the City Council approved a resolution adopting 712 NE 7th Street and the lot at the corner of 6th and A streets as allowable locations for public camping. Campers will be allowed to stay at each site for 96 hours with no time restrictions. The vote came after a lengthy and sometimes contentious debate between Council members as well as public testimony that made it clear that the other sites under consideration were unacceptable. The resolution approved by the Council must convince Josephine County Circuit Court Judge Brandon S. Thueson that the City is creating additional time and places for homeless camping. Earlier this week, Thueson extended a 14-day restraining order against enforcing public camping restrictions until 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, February 27th. Grants Pass City Manager Aaron Cubic and Mayor Clint Scherf advised the Council that if the resolution is not acceptable to the judge, he could make the restraining order an injunction that would run the duration of the current lawsuit: possibly two or three years without any regulations on public camping. ...Read more

Board of Commissioners Unanimously Okayed Eight Items in Wednesday Business Meeting

The Josephine County Board of Commissioners tackled a lengthy agenda during its weekly business session on Wednesday. The Board made eight decisions on a total of 11 items it considered under Administrative Actions. No action was taken by the Board on a proposed letter of support and commitment to Applegate Partnership & Watershed Council for a grant to improve fish passage on Cheney Creek by building a new $4 million bridge. No general fund dollars were at stake from the 10% matching grant, but no motion was made. The Commissioners approved orders for the annual sale of surplus vehicles from the Public Works Department and confirmed the November 14, 2024, Sheriff's Property Sale while authorizing the distribution of $807,000 in proceeds. Also unanimously approved were orders suspending the acceptance of mineral exploration permits and mining leases for one year, establishing the Josephine County Voluntary Resignation Program and canceling next week's business session due to a lack of a quorum. Two resolutions were approved regarding the resetting of appointments and terms for the Josephine County Budget Committee and the Illinois Valley Airport Advisory Committee. ...Read more

Nominations Closing Soon for "Southern Oregon's Top 10 Emerging Leaders" Team

The nomination period for the 2025 cohort of Southern Oregon's Top 10 Emerging Leaders is drawing to a close. This initiative honors individuals 40 and under -- including students -- who are making significant contributions to our community through their professional achievements and community efforts. Emerging Leaders is dedicated to recognizing and supporting young professionals and students who are committed to make Southern Oregon a better and safer place to live. Through leadership development and community engagement, the organization fosters the growth of future leaders in the region. Sharre Whitson, Emerging Leaders Committee Representative, said the program is more than just an award -- it's a prestigious recognition that opens doors to greater opportunities. She said "even being nominated for this distinguished honor is a testament to one's leadership, impact and dedication to bettering our community." To nominate a deserving individual, please visit "emergingleadersgive.com" and complete the nomination form. The deadline for submissions is fast approaching. For more information, you can e-mail "top10soleaders@gmail.com." ...Read more