Jefferson County Families: Your Library Card Can Now Get You Free Oregon State Park Parking

Jefferson County's biggest annual event is just over two weeks away. The 2026 Jefferson County Fair & Rodeo runs July 21–25 at the Jefferson County Event Complex in Madras, featuring livestock shows, 4-H and FFA exhibits, rodeo events, vendors, and live entertainment.

The Madras City Council formally hired Brenda Fahey as city administrator at its June 23 meeting, capping a weeks-long search process that included a public meet-and-greet with three finalists. Fahey comes from The Dalles, where she served as assistant city manager and HR director.

Jefferson County Commissioner incumbents Mark Wunsch and Kelly Simmelink both led their primary races in May, with Wunsch holding a nearly 20-point advantage over challenger George Curtiss and Simmelink clearing 55% against three opponents.

Incumbent Sheriff Jason Pollock and challenger Tyler Anderson will face off in November's general election. Anderson, a former JCSO deputy, has been placed on the Brady List and his law enforcement certification is under review — issues that surfaced in the final weeks before the May primary.

The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs and Bend City Council convened a joint session June 30 to discuss Deschutes Basin water conservation, public art, and Bend's 20-year growth plan — with tribal leadership emphasizing that the relationship will be judged by actions, not words.