Jefferson County
Madras Mayor's Race Takes Shape as Forum Spotlights Staffing, Finances, and City Growth
With Mayor Mike Lepin stepping down, Madras candidates for mayor met for a public forum focused on city staffing challenges, municipal finances, and development priorities ahead of the November election.
Weather
Residential Burn Season Now Open in Jefferson County — Tips for Safe Debris Burning
Open residential debris burning is now permitted in Jefferson County after fire chiefs across Central Oregon collectively reopened burn season on October 1, 2026, following a dry summer of restrictions.
Local News
Museum at Warm Springs Calls for Artists for 33rd Annual Tribal Member Exhibition
The Museum at Warm Springs is accepting submissions for the 33rd Annual Warm Springs Tribal Member and Youth Art Exhibit, with an opening reception set for November 18, 2026, running through February 2027.
Public Safety
Madras First Responders Face Off for Breast Cancer Awareness at Human Bean This Friday
On Friday, October 16, Corporal Jeremy Skeels of the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office and Conner Bowman of Jefferson County Fire & EMS compete in The Human Bean's "Coffee for a Cure" fundraiser for breast cancer awareness.
Events
Madras Hosts First-Ever "Books, Bites & Harvest Delights" as Fall Harvest Season Arrives
Madras welcomed its first "Books, Bites & Harvest Delights" event last Saturday, drawing local vendors and fall harvest shoppers to the heart of Jefferson County.
Business
Free Business Advising Comes to Jefferson County: COCC's SBDC Launches In-Person Hours in Madras
Central Oregon Community College's Small Business Development Center has launched recurring in-person advising hours in Madras, bringing free, confidential business consulting services directly to Jefferson County entrepreneurs for the first time.