CDBG Weatherization and Rehabilitation Program Application Window to Close Tomorrow
Grants Pass residents still have time to apply for the Community Development Block Grant Weatherization and Rehabilitation Program. The application window for lower- and middle-income homeowners will close at 5 pm on Tuesday, September 16. It is offered for city residents only and for owner-occupied stick-built homes. No mobile homes or manufactured homes are eligible. No rentals are eligible for the 2024 program year. The CDBG program allocates funds each year for these types of projects based on the annual award the city receives from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The funds are limited, applications must meet the income level, and not all repairs are eligible. ...Read more

Investigation Continues for Ashland Murder, No General Threat to Public

Investigators from the Major Assault and Death Investigation Unit have spent the week furthering the investigation into the murder of Matthew Vandersande. The investigative team is made up of members of the Ashland Police, Medford Police, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, the Jackson County District Attorney’s office and the Oregon State Police Crime Lab. Throughout the last week, several Ashland neighborhoods have seen detectives canvassing the area, interviewing possible witnesses and seeking evidence. Several search warrants have been obtained and executed, and several items of evidentiary value collected. More search warrants will be sought as needed as the investigation progresses. The investigation continues to lead investigators to believe that there is not a general threat to the community. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to reach out to the Ashland Police Department. ...Read more

Kelsey Peak Fire Containment increases to 23%, Firefighters Continue Mop-Up

Mop-up operations on the Kelsey Peak Fire have improved containment to 23%. Increased containment reflects the focused work crews have been accomplishing each day. Some portions of the fire have been mopped up 100 feet into the interior. Yesterday, helicopters were used to drop water on hot spots, moderating fire behavior and allowing firefighters to cool the area. They will be available again today for bucket work and to bring pumps and hose to the fire line in difficult terrain. Crews today are using infrared maps from an Unmanned Aircraft flight late yesterday to identify areas of heat. The Rogue River remains open for permitted boaters near the Kelsey Peak Fire, however boaters are encouraged to use caution on this part of the river. ...Read more