Latest Library Lease Draft Classifies Roof Replacement Costs as Rent

Legal Counsel Wally Hicks released an updated library lease Friday afternoon to be considered by the Board of Commissioners and Library District. In a release regarding the lease draft, Hicks reports the payment that the library agreed to make to the county towards replacement of the roof would now be classified as rent. The total payment amount for five years would be $27,687. Pre-payment on the total rent is $20,424. Annual payments due will be $1,453. The county will continue to be responsible for replacement of the roof. The termination clause remains, saying if the lease isn't carried out, the defaulting party would be notified 30 days in advance if there was intent to terminate. ...Read more

Grocery Outlet's Stuff the Truck Event to Support Josephine County Food Bank

The Grants Pass Grocery Outlet is hosting their Stuff the Truck event supporting the Josephine County Food Bank this weekend. On Saturday from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at 350 NE Agness Avenue, everyone is encouraged to stop by and pick up some extra, non-perishable items while grocery shopping to support the Food Bank. You can also purchase a pre-priced "grab and go" bag of food at the front of the store. Stop by the Food Bank booth to see how your support helps fight hunger here in our community. Learn about their mission, volunteer opportunities, and their other programs that help make a difference for those struggling with food insecurity. ...Read more

BLM Closures to be lifted after Increased Containment of Kelsey Peak Fire

Thanks to increased containment on the Kelsey Peak Fire, Bureau of Land Management closures will be opened. The BLM Grants Pass Field Office will lift the closure order on BLM Road 32-9-14.2 and the BLM-administered section of the Rogue River Trail from Horseshoe Bend to Marial today. Official assessments determined the road and trail closures are no longer needed. Firefighters continue operations on the Kelsey Peak Fire and are still using portions of BLM Road 32-9-14.2. Additionally, they are using the Grave Creek to Marial Backcountry Byway and the Cow Creek Scenic Byway. People using those routes are cautioned to drive slowly, watch out for firefighting equipment, and drive with headlights on. The BLM Medford District remains in high fire danger. ...Read more