Josephine Library District Responds to BCC's Unexpected Vote on GP Lease Agreement
In an unexpected turn of events, the Josephine County Board of Commissioners on Thursday approved a new lease for the Grants Pass library branch -- but only after adding back a clause that undermines months of negotiations. Board Chair Andreas Blech introduced an amendment to reinstate the "termination for convenience" provision, allowing either party to end the lease with just 30 days' notice. The Commissioners voted 2-1 to approve the amendment lease agreement. Josephine Community Library Vice-President Rachele Selvig said the amendment puts them right back where they started. She said "after months of good-faith negotiations, the outcome does not provide the stability the community deserves." Library leaders said the draft reflected a fair compromise: the district would assume additional maintenance costs plus an amortized contribution toward the roof replacement on the building at 200 NW C Street. In return, the County would maintain the $1-per-year lease commitment for the next five years, with no option to terminate during that time except for cause. The vote did not reflect the pact. By reintroducing the "termination for convenience" clause, library leaders said the Commissioners have undone the core assurance of stability the district required. ...Read more

Jackson County Payroll Employment Down in July, But Remains Stable Over the Year
Total payroll employment in Jackson County fell by 640 jobs in July, mostly due to seasonal reductions in local government education. According to the Oregon Employment Department, there were 101,025 people working in Jackson County last month for a seasonally adjusted jobless rate of 5.4%, which was up from 5.3% in June and an increase from 4.8% in July 2024. Government employment declined by 1,000 jobs due to 1,100 fewer jobs in local government education for summer vacation. State and local government had small gains. Jackson County's private sector job gains were broad-based in July. Job totals rose in construction, retail trade, leisure & hospitality, and professional and business services. Private education & health services was the only private industry with an employment decline over the month. Over the year, payroll employment in Jackson County climbed by 250 jobs, or an increase of 0.3%. ...Read more

USA Today Names Rogue Valley Second Best Wine Region in the United States
Travel Medford has announced that the Rogue Valley American Viticultural Area has been named the #2 Best Wine Region in the United States by USA Today's Readers' Choice Awards. This national recognition is especially significant as the Rogue Valley -- located in the heart of Southern Oregon -- rose above world-renowned wine regions in California, Washington and other parts of Oregon. The Rogue Valley was one of 20 wine regions nominated by USA Today's panel of travel editors and industry experts, and its strong showing in this publicly-voted competition highlights its growing reputation as a premier wine destination. This accolade further solidifies the Rogue Valley as a must-visit wine destination, celebrated for its accessibility, approachability and laid-back charm, all set against the breathtaking landscapes of Southern Oregon. Cheers to the Rogue Valley! ...Read more