Jackson County Public Health Encouraging Preparedness for Wildfire Smoke, Air Quality
Jackson County Public Health is encouraging community members to prepare for potential air quality impacts from the East Evans Creek Road Fire. According to Jackson County Health and Human Services, smoke levels can rise or fall quickly depending on changing weather conditions. It is important for people to stay alert and monitor air quality throughout wildfire season. The particulate matter (also called “PM”) in wildfire smoke poses the biggest risk to the public’s health. Particles larger than 10 micrometers usually irritate only the eyes, nose, and throat. Fine particles 2.5 micrometers or smaller (PM2.5) can be inhaled into the deepest part of the lungs and even enter the bloodstream. Those known to be more vulnerable to wildfire smoke exposures include children less than 18 years, Adults 65 or older, pregnant women, outdoor workers, and those with chronic health conditions. During a wildfire smoke event, Jackson County Public Health officials advise people to take precautions like staying aware of smoke concentrations and avoiding strenuous outdoor activity. Drink plenty of water, and keep the windows and vents closed in your vehicle while driving. For those who must go outside, respirators may offer some protection. Ensure they fit properly and that air does not leak around the sides. ...Read more

Fire Activity Increased on East Evans Creek Fire, Potential Thunderstorms Forecasted

Fire activity increased on the East Evans Creek Fire as crews prepare for potential thunderstorms. According to the latest Oregon Department of Forestry update, firefighters adjusted suppression tactics and ordered additional resources. The Jackson County Sheriff's Office increased Zone JAC-124 to a Level 3 evacuation zone. The fire remains at an estimated 3,628.2 acres, with an updated infrared flight ordered to map the fire later this morning. ODF Complex Incident Management Team 1 ordered firefighting resources to arrive today for another potentially active day on the line. Crews will continue constructing, improving, and holding containment lines. Structural task forces have been strategically assigned where structures faced the greatest potential threat. An incident occurred on the fire involving a wildland vehicle, no personnel were injured, and an investigation is being conducted. A Level 1: Be Ready to evacuate warning for Zones JAC-003, JAC-004, JAC-017, JAC-026, JAC-036, JAC-109, JAC-126, and JAC-149-B, a Level 2: Be Set warning for Zones JAC-016, JAC-147, and JAC-148-B, and a Level 3: Go Now for Zone JAC-148-A are still in effect. ...Read more

Council Moves for Lodging Tax Allocation, Tourism Grant Program to Remain the Same
The Grants Pass City Council moved in favor of the current Lodging Tax Allocation, thanks to a tie breaking vote from Mayor Clint Scherf. During the 11:45 a.m. workshop, council heard a presentation on the tax allocation, with funding utilized for Fire and Police Division operations, as well as Economic and Downtown Development. House Bill 4148, which allows net local transient lodging tax revenue to be used for resiliency grants for small businesses in the restaurant and lodging industry, will go into effect January 1st, 2027. This move follows amendments to an Oregon Revised Statute, and could lead to the potential change in the allocation of about $43,900. Next was a Tourism Grant Program review. $35,000 have been awarded for Fiscal Year 2026, and the Tourism Advisory Committee recommended updates to the program like changes to scoring and application, plus the expansion of location criteria. Council moved 5-3 to not accept the recommendations, keeping the program in place, and to bring on a council liaison to the committee. Council continued their Owl Plaza discussion regarding plaza use policies and the application process, as well as the potential new food truck policy. A motion was made to direct staff to proceed with a six-month pilot project with amendments. ...Read more