Local News

Homelessness: The Real Difference Between Bend and Grants Pass
City Politics / County Politics / Homeless / Local News

Homelessness: The Real Difference Between Bend and Grants Pass

I often see posts in local social media groups about how Bend and other Oregon cities look so much cleaner and don't seem to face the same visible homelessness crisis we do here in Grants Pass. After looking into it, the short answer comes down to funding and shelter infrastructure. Bend has the resources to provide enough managed shelters and designated sites to transition people off the streets, which prevents the high level of visible…

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May 22, 2026
State Statute Violations & Former Democratic Chair New Voice For BCC
County Politics / Election / Local News / Local Politics

State Statute Violations & Former Democratic Chair New Voice For BCC

Last month, the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) terminated all three budget committee members, allegedly because "they all thought the same." While the board needed to stagger terms, they could have simply let current terms expire in November or asked for volunteers to accept one, two, or three-year seats. Instead, by dissolving the committee entirely, the BCC violated ORS 294.414, ignoring established state statutes. The board claims to want "diverse thinking," which explains their appointment…

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May 8, 2026
The Liberal Long Game: How We Lose Our County
City Politics / County Politics / Election / Local News / Local Politics

The Liberal Long Game: How We Lose Our County

This is a long four part series I posted on Facebook recently. I wasn't sure if it was something I wanted to share here or not - till today. I think it's a very useful series for those interested and for referring back to from time to time. Part I: The Liberal Long Game: How We Lose Our County I have become deeply disgusted and concerned. One of the Facebook groups among our local Josephine…

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May 3, 2026
The Republican Choice: Evaluating Colene Martin’s Record
County Politics / Election / Local News

The Republican Choice: Evaluating Colene Martin’s Record

In 2024, Colene Martin campaigned for a County Commissioner seat and lost. Notably, the Republican Party did not endorse her, despite her registration as a Republican. Instead, the Democratic Party chose to support her candidacy. For many conservatives, this cross-party support was a significant red flag regarding her political alignment. In my view, Martin faced a defining moment: she could have stood firm on traditional Republican principles and rejected the opposition's support, or she could…

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May 3, 2026
Regarding Seth Benham, Candidate for State Representative, District 3
Election / Local News / State Politics

Regarding Seth Benham, Candidate for State Representative, District 3

I have two serious concerns regarding Seth Benham, who is running for House Representative in District 3 to unseat Rep Dwayne Yunker. To me, these are vital issues regarding integrity, transparency and ethics that every voter should consider. 1. Conflicts of Interest The first issue involves concerns already raised by others within various Facebook groups. It has been pointed out that Mr. Benham has faced questions regarding potential conflicts of interest and proper recusals. This…

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May 2, 2026
Local Election Interviews and Resource Guide For May 2026
County Politics / Election / Local News

Local Election Interviews and Resource Guide For May 2026

This resource guide is to help inform voters. The interviews were conducted by Mike Jones; you can find more of his work at his website, Mike on Mic. This guide features interviews with several key political figures running for office, including: John West: Candidate for Commissioner, Position 1 Chad Hansen: Candidate for Commissioner, Position 2 Indra Nicholas: Candidate for Commissioner, Position 2 Simon Hare: Candidate for County Treasurer Rep. Dwayne Yunker: Seeking re-election for House…

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April 21, 2026
Details on Secured State Funding for Josephine County
City Politics / County Politics / Election / Local News / State Politics

Details on Secured State Funding for Josephine County

This details the process behind Representative Dwayne Yunker collaborative process that led to securing $3.5 million for critical local infrastructure and economic drivers. Project Initiation: The effort began in December 2025 when Representative Yunker and Senator Robinson met with the Mayor of Grants Pass and city staff to identify high-priority projects and establish a legislative roadmap. Building a Coalition: Advocacy was expanded to include the Grants Pass Chamber of Commerce and other local stakeholders to…

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April 15, 2026
John West – Putting Josephine County First
County Politics / Election / Local News

John West – Putting Josephine County First

IntroductionCommissioner John West represents a steady, principled voice for Josephine County residents who expect their local government to work for them not outside interests or political agendas. With a focus on fiscal responsibility, public safety, and local control, West approaches county leadership with common sense, transparency, and respect for the people who live and work here. His priorities reflect the values of a rural county that believes in accountability, property rights, and community safety. Proven…

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April 15, 2026
Simon Hare: Budget Officer Statement On Contract Dispute
County Politics / Election / Local News

Simon Hare: Budget Officer Statement On Contract Dispute

In his statement from the April 1, 2026, Board of County Commissioners (BCC) meeting, former Budget Officer Simon Hare addressed the controversy surrounding his contract and resignation. Key Points of the Statement:Professional Background: Hare emphasized his eight years of experience as a former County Commissioner, noting he successfully managed the county through significant fiscal crises and was recruited by the previous board specifically for his expertise. The Reason for Resignation: Hare stated he was "forced…

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April 13, 2026
Red Flags: The BCC’s War on Transparency
County Politics / Election / Local News / Local Politics

Red Flags: The BCC’s War on Transparency

In a very short time, the current Board of County Commissioners has raised serious red flags regarding our tax dollars: Rate Hikes: They already voted to increase SOS rates. Deficit Hiring: They want to hire 21 new employees that the Budget Committee says we cannot afford. See BCC agenda below. Tax Burdens: They are pushing a tax levy instead of exploring recommended alternatives. The Budget Committee Purge: In a move that undermines independent oversight, the…

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April 12, 2026