Task Force Busts Black-Market Marijuana Grow outside Applegate Area

The Illegal Marijuana Enforcement Team (IMET) detectives served a search warrant today at a black-market cannabis grow in the 100 block of Hogan Road near rural Applegate outside of Jacksonville. According to a press release, IMET detectives seized approximately 1,300 marijuana plants, a half-pound of psilocybin mushrooms, and three and a half pounds of THC extract. There was no licensing for any type of cannabis growing, handling, or processing at the location. IMET was assisted by Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Oregon State Police. Oregon Water Resources Department and Jackson County Code Enforcement responded to the scene to conduct investigations. ...Read more

HR Director Terminated from Position, BCC Approved Meeting Ordinance

Michelle Shaw has been terminated from her position as Human Resources Director following a motion from the Board of Commissioners. After Wednesday's 3:30 p.m. Executive Session, Commissioner Gary Richardson said that there was no harmful intent or bad behavior on the part of Shaw, but that the decision was based on needing a higher skill level in the position. Commissioner Colene Martin was in agreement, and the motion passed 2-0 with Commissioner Ron Smith abstaining. The board then reconvened in the Anne G. Basker Auditorium for their 5:30 p.m. Weekly Business Session. First on the agenda was a public hearing regarding the second reading of an ordinance amending the County Code in relation to meetings of the board. A motion to adopt the ordinance passed 3-0. Following the second public hearing for annexations to the Josephine Community Library District, both landowner petitions were approved unanimously. The public brought topics to the board including alleged harassment, defamation, and the potential to bring the issue to the Supreme Court, comments about the mining ordinance, an idea for Sheriff's Department revenue, and an update on the upcoming Josephine County Fair. ...Read more

ODF Crews Tackle Crooks Creek Wildfire, One Civilian Injured

The Oregon Department of Forestry Southwest Oregon District and partner agencies tackled the Crooks Creek Fire yesterday. ODF's Facebook page reported firefighters engaged in an aggressive initial attack to quickly contain the fire. Forward spread of the grass fire was stopped around 5:10 p.m., and was, at that time, reported to be 100% wet lined. Agency partners and firefighters kept the wildfire at just a quarter acre despite hot conditions. By 5:30 p.m., the agency's final update reported the fire remained at a quarter acre, was 50% hand lined and 25% mopped up. Four Type 6 engines continued to work the scene to secure the blaze and extinguish remaining hot spots. Firefighters continued suppression efforts on the structure fire. According to the Illinois Valley Fire District, one civilian sustained injuries during the incident and was transported by American Medical Response. ODF, IVFD, and Rural Metro crews responded, and the fire has been extinguished and contained. Units have completed mop up operations. The incident is under investigation ...Read more