Medford, OR – The Rogue Valley International – Medford Airport is preparing for a major expansion to accommodate a significant increase in passenger traffic over the next two decades. Airport officials have stated that the facility, which serves Southern Oregon and Northern California, is outgrowing its current infrastructure and needs substantial upgrades to meet future demand. Amber Judd, the airport’s director, revealed that the airport expects passenger numbers to double by 2042, with projections estimating approximately one million passengers annually. In order to handle this growth, Judd explained that the airport will need to nearly double in size. “Our terminal…
Author: Sarah Prescott
Medford, OR – This November, the Medford Police Department (MPD) is swapping razors for a cause, as officers and staff take part in the nationwide “No Shave November” campaign. The initiative, which encourages participants to forgo shaving for the month, aims to raise both awareness and funds for cancer research and patient care. In Medford, MPD’s team of officers and staff have committed to growing facial hair throughout the month, asking for the community’s support through donations. The funds raised from this effort will benefit the Asante Foundation for Cancer Care, a nonprofit that provides essential cancer care and funds…
Medford, OR – The deadline to apply for the 2025 Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Citizen Academy is fast approaching, offering a unique opportunity for community members to learn about law enforcement firsthand. The 11-week course will cover a variety of topics, including criminal investigations, prosecution of cases, general administration of police services, and specialized programs such as SWAT and K-9 units. Classes will take place on Wednesday nights, beginning on January 8 and running through March 19, 2025. The program is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the operations and challenges faced by local law enforcement officers, giving participants…
Medford, OR – The Coquille Indian Tribe is on the verge of a significant achievement in its decade-long pursuit of a casino in Medford, Oregon. After years of setbacks and negotiations, the tribe’s proposal has gained new momentum with the finalization of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) by the U.S. Department of the Interior. This approval paves the way for the tribe to transform over two acres of its land into federal trust, a crucial step toward building the long-awaited casino. The Coquille Tribe first began its efforts to establish a gaming facility under the Obama administration, but faced several…
Medford, OR – Governor Tina Kotek has announced plans to convene a special session of the Oregon Legislature on December 12, 2024, to address the outstanding bills from the state’s record wildfire season. This year, wildfires ravaged nearly 2 million acres, a figure more than three times the 10-year average, and cost Oregon emergency response agencies nearly $350 million. While a significant portion of these costs is expected to be covered by federal disaster relief funds, Kotek is seeking immediate legislative approval for at least $218 million from the state’s general fund to settle the remaining debts. The session will…
Medford, OR – Negotiations between Providence Medford nurses and hospital administration have hit an impasse, with both sides failing to reach a new agreement during a bargaining session this week. The nurses, represented by the Oregon Nurses Association (ONA), are continuing to push for higher compensation, with a focus on retroactive pay and bonuses. A strike authorization vote is now pending as both parties approach a critical deadline. Nurses have been without a new contract since March and have been in negotiations since January, participating in at least 18 bargaining sessions. According to the ONA, a top priority for the…
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is calling on Oregonians to participate in shaping the future of emergency management in the state. On February 11, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., the department will host its second annual town hall, inviting community members from all backgrounds to share their insights and feedback on the agency’s strategic direction. The virtual event will focus on two key initiatives: the OEM 2023–2025 Strategic Plan and the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) Plan. These plans play a vital role in guiding the department’s efforts to build resilience and improve emergency management…
As the winter season approaches, communities are reminded to prepare for the possibility of severe weather. Winter storms can bring icy roads, power outages, and hazardous conditions, making it crucial for individuals to be proactive in ensuring their safety and well-being. Local authorities urge residents to stay informed, be aware of their surroundings, and have a solid plan in place to navigate the challenges that come with the colder months. Preparing Your Vehicle for Winter Conditions One of the most important aspects of winter preparedness is making sure your vehicle is ready for the unpredictable weather. In the event of…
Last week, Battalion Chief Kip Gray marked an impressive milestone in his career, celebrating 25 years of dedicated service with the [Fire Department Name]. Known as a “leader of leaders,” Gray’s strategic mind, calm demeanor in high-pressure situations, and exceptional leadership skills have made him a key figure in the department, earning the respect of colleagues and the trust of the community. Since joining the fire department, Gray has built a reputation as a steady and reliable leader. His ability to think critically and remain composed during emergencies has been vital in ensuring his team stays focused and effective, even…
The City of Medford recently hosted an in-person community forum aimed at tackling critical housing issues, with a particular focus on rent burden, fair housing, and rental assistance. The event, which gathered residents, housing experts, and local leaders, is part of ongoing efforts to address the pressing need for affordable housing and support for renters in the region. The forum brought together a diverse panel of experts who offered valuable insights into various aspects of housing, including the current state of the housing market, tenant rights, financial counseling, and assistance programs. Panelists also discussed the unique housing challenges faced by…