Josephine County Commissioners Deliver Progress in 2025

GRANTS PASS, Ore. - Josephine County Commissioners have announced a series of accomplishments in the last nine months, pointing to a balanced budget, restored community programs, stronger public safety, and ongoing efforts to secure the future of the Josephine Community Library.

Key highlights include:

Restoring 4-H and Oregon State University Extension programs: After months of public testimony, commissioners have approved funding to bring back 4-H, the Master Gardener program, in addition to other community minded programs that Oregon State University Extension has to offer, without raising taxes; an

Approving a balanced budget for fiscal year 2025-2026, and preserving essential services while maintaining long term stability; and

Strengthening Public Safety for Josephine County, the commissioners approved additional funding to support added deputies, detectives, and one additional school resource officer to the Sheriff's Office, moving closer to the goal of 24-hour patrol coverage; and

After months of collaborating with the Josephine Community Library, the board approved a lease with the library, and is pending the library board's approval; and

The Board of County Commissioners held town hall meetings and successfully assisted in protecting property owners by pushing back against Oregon Senate Bill 762, Oregon Wildfire Hazard Map.

"Our focus so far this year has been listening to the people of Josephine County and responding with action," the commissioners said in a joint statement. "By restoring youth programs, investing in public safety, balancing the budget, and working with community partners, we are building a stronger and more stable county for the future."

Some residents say, that 2025 reflects steps to building a stronger connection between local government and the people it serves.

For more information about Josephine County programs visit https://www.Josephinecounty.gov