Patrol Vehicle Purchase, Victim Assistance Grant Amendment Approved by BCC
The Board of Commissioners approved the purchase of new patrol vehicles for the Sheriff's Department and an amendment to a Department of Justice Grant Award at the start of today's workshop.

The grant award, with just over $325,000 from the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA), and over $122,000 from the Criminal Fine Account (CFA), was amended to continue for a second year in support of victim assistance following a 3-0 motion from the board.

Sheriff Dave Daniel requested the purchase of five 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe patrol vehicles with upfitting for five new deputy positions. Approval was unanimous, and the approximate total of $418,000 would be paid for through the Sheriff's Equipment Reserve Fund.

Further discussion was postponed for new portable patrol radios, but five in-car radios have been approved for purchase. The board then moved in favor of reducing the Fund 26 Animal Control Budget contingency to increase personnel and vehicle expense. The cost is covered by the contingency balance within the fund.

Approval to pay $1,762 in 2027 County Membership Dues was granted unanimously, and the board moved 3-0 in favor of the Tree Planting Contract with Rogue River Forestry LLC for the planting of approximately 173,500 seedlings.

All Human Resources Position Requisitions and Personnel Actions were approved, and the board convened in executive session to discuss real properties in relation to the Flying Lark sale. ...Read more

Fire Season Ends Wednesday

The Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District is officially declaring an end to the 2026 fire season in Jackson and Josephine counties, effective Wednesday, October 28th, at 12:01 a.m. Recent rainfall, cooler temperatures and a shift toward consistent fall weather have allowed all fire season regulations and Industrial Fire Precaution Levels to be lifted. Since fire season was declared on May 15, ODF firefighters have responded to 210 fires across Jackson and Josephine counties, totaling approximately 17,220 acres burned. Crews successfully kept 95% of fires at 10 acres or less, just below ODF's annual goal of 98%. The termination of fire season removes ODF's seasonal fire prevention regulations on equipment use and debris burning for the public and industrial operations on protected forestlands. However, industrial slash burning remains prohibited. Before burning, residents should check with their local fire department for permit requirements and confirm that burning is allowed in their area. Residents can check daily burning conditions through their county's burn information line:
- Jackson County Burn Line: (541) 776-7007
- Josephine County Burn Line: (541) 476-9663 ...Read more

Ashland Police Officer Involved In Shooting

Officers with the Ashland Police Department responded to the area of the 200 block of “A” Street on a report of a business alarm early this morning. Upon arrival after the 2 a.m. report, officers encountered a lone suspect exiting the area of multiple businesses with shattered storefront windows. The suspect approached the officers while armed with a knife. One of the officers fired his department issued sidearm at the suspect, striking the suspect, who was then transported to Rogue Regional Medical Center for treatment by Ashland Fire & Rescue. The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office is handling this investigation, in conjunction with the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office. Officers were additionally supported by the Oregon State Police as well as the Medford and Talent Police Departments. Further news releases will be forthcoming from the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office. The investigation is ongoing. ...Read more