Local News
Warm Springs Tribe and City of Bend Hold Joint Meeting on Water, Growth, and Art
The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs and the Bend City Council met June 30th to discuss Deschutes Basin water conservation, groundwater use, Bend's 20-year growth plan, and public art -- part of a landmark 2024 government-to-government agreement.
Election 2026
Jefferson County Sheriff Candidate Tyler Anderson Loses Police Certification — What It Means for November
The Oregon DPSST Police Policy Committee voted in May to strip sheriff candidate Tyler Anderson of his law enforcement certifications, adding a critical dimension to his November race against incumbent Jason Pollock.
Local News
Madras Celebrates America's 250th: A Community Fourth of July to Remember
Madras marked Independence Day 2026 with parades, the Todd Beamer Run, live music at Sahalee Park, and a grand fireworks display — celebrating the nation's 250th anniversary with the spirit Jefferson County does best.
Local News
Jefferson County School District Faces $2 Million Budget Cut for 2026-27 School Year
Falling enrollment and Oregon's school funding formula have forced Jefferson County School District 509J to cut $2 million from its budget for the coming school year, with impacts already visible in Career and Technical Education programs at the middle school level.
Events
Jefferson County Fair and Rodeo Is Two Weeks Away — Here's What to Expect July 21-25
The Jefferson County Fair and Rodeo returns to the Event Complex in Madras July 21-25, 2026. With the Cowdeo kicking things off this Thursday night, fair season is officially upon us.
Election 2026
Wunsch and Simmelink Advance: Jefferson County Commissioner Races Set for November
Incumbent commissioners Mark Wunsch and Kelly Simmelink both survived crowded primary fields in May, advancing to the November general election. Simmelink pulled more than 54% to avoid a runoff entirely.