Election 2026
Jefferson County Sheriff Race Heads to November: Pollock vs. Anderson After Contested Primary Season
The race for Jefferson County Sheriff between incumbent Jason Pollock and challenger Tyler Anderson is heading to the November 3 general election — not the May primary. Here's what voters need to know heading into the fall campaign.
Business
St. Charles Health System Cuts 22 Leadership Positions, Affecting Madras Hospital
St. Charles Health System, the region's largest employer with a hospital in Madras, laid off 22 people in leadership roles on June 23 and will leave 23 additional vacancies unfilled as part of a restructuring of its top management.
Business
Legends Reloaded Festival Brings 2,000 Rock Music Fans to Jefferson County
A brand new tribute band festival debuted in Madras on June 19–20, drawing roughly 2,000 attendees to the Jefferson County Fairgrounds. Organizers say it was a smashing success and are already considering a return.
Local News
Native Artists' Exhibition Opens at Madras Art Gallery — "We're Still Here"
Art Adventure Gallery in Madras will feature works by 96 Native artists from the Warm Springs, Yakima, and Cayuse-Umatilla tribes through July and August. The opening reception is July 2.
Local News
Madras City Council Officially Hires Brenda Fahey as New City Administrator
The Madras City Council confirmed Brenda Fahey as the city's next administrator at its Tuesday night meeting, ending a months-long search. Fahey currently serves as assistant city manager and HR director for the City of The Dalles.
Public Safety
Fire Danger Is Extreme: What Jefferson County Residents Must Know Before July 4th
With Central Oregon fire danger rated EXTREME and a burn ban in effect since May, Jefferson County Fire & EMS is urging residents to take serious precautions heading into the Fourth of July holiday — even as fireworks remain legal.