Josephine Community Transit Able to Maintain Services after Electric Bus Fire in GP

Josephine Community Transit services were unaffected by a fire that engulfed an electric bus at the Public Works charging area this week. No one was harmed in the fire and similar vehicles have been taken out of service as a precaution. JCT program supervisor Scott Chancey said the 35-foot low-floor Gillig Battery Electric Bus was not scheduled for service Wednesday when a transit operator saw a fire emerging from the vehicle's roof. The operator immediately called 9-1-1 and other operators followed existing protocol to move other vehicles away. Chancey said their team's quick actions prevented further loss of equipment and ensured the safety of everyone at the charging area. He said he's thankful no one was hurt and that they were able to continue serving residents without interruption. Chancey said the incident is categorized as a runaway thermal event, which happens when a battery cell shorts out or is damaged, causing it to discharge its electrical energy. Grants Pass firefighters aided in the emergency by keeping the thermal event from spreading from the battery packs on the top of the bus to those at the back. Fleet maintenance crews disconnected the remaining undamaged battery packs right after firefighters stopped their operations. ...Read more

Josephine Community Library Foundation Stands in Support of District in Lease Dispute

The Josephine Community Library Foundation has pledged its full support for the library district in response to the Board of Commissioners' January 6th vote to terminate the lease for the Grants Pass branch library. Library Foundation Executive Director Rebecca Stoltz said the Board's decision raises serious concerns about the legality and process of the termination. She calls on the Commissioners to reverse their vote and honor the library's lease agreement, which is set to run through December 31st of this year. Stoltz said the library is a vital community resource, and decisions about its future should reflect thoughtful collaboration and input from the public. Library donors, volunteers and patrons have expressed frustration and a desire to support the library during this critical time. The foundation has provided tools to make that possible including contact information for the Commissioners and a customizable letter template on its website. These resources empower residents to voice their concerns and advocate for the library. The lease termination is scheduled to take effect in 30 days following written notification, potentially disrupting access to critical library programs and services relied upon by thousands of Josephine County residents. ...Read more

Jackson County Residents Encouraged to License Pets with Animal Services in 2025

Every pet parent's worst nightmare is having their furry family member go missing. In 2025, getting a license for your pet to help them return home is easier than ever. Online pet licensing is now available on Jackson County Animal Services' website. Jackson County Animal Services requires that all dogs over six months old be licensed. This helps ensure compliance with vaccinations and helps keep the whole community safe. If a licensed pet gets loose and ends up with Jackson County Animal Services, they offer a free ride home if it is the pet's first incident in 12 months. This means that your four-legged friend will be returned to you at no charge. In 2024, 55 dogs were returned using the Free Ride Home Program. If a dog is brought to the shelter without a license and the owner is located, they are required to pay the redemption fees along with purchasing a license. The new online system makes it easier than ever for pet parents to protect their pets and keep them safe all year. Make safety for the family your 2025 resolution. ...Read more