Business
COCC Madras Health Care Programs Hit Their Stride in First Full Fall Semester
The COCC Madras Campus is running its first full fall semester of nursing, CNA, medical assistant, and early childhood education programs — new offerings developed with St. Charles Health System and The Children's Learning Center to build a local healthcare workforce in Jefferson County.
Events
Drive-Through Vaccine Clinic Coming to Crooked River Ranch Fire Hall Next Thursday
Jefferson County Public Health will hold a no-appointment drive-through vaccine clinic at the Crooked River Ranch Fire Hall on Thursday, October 22, from 3–6 p.m., offering flu, high-dose flu, and updated Moderna COVID-19 vaccines to all residents.
Local News
Warm Springs Housing Authority Lands $5 Million Federal Grant for New Affordable Homes
The Warm Springs Housing Authority will receive $5 million in federal Indian Housing Block Grant funding for new affordable housing construction — part of a nearly $10 million grant package for two Oregon tribal communities announced by Senators Merkley and Wyden.
Jefferson County
County Road Work in Full Swing: Pony Butte Repairs, Madras Residential Streets Getting Pavement Overlay
Pony Butte Road — the route to Ashwood — remains under construction with up to 20-minute delays through mid-October, while JAL Construction has begun a pavement overlay project on Green Drive, Highland Drive, and Colfax Lane near Madras.
Public Safety
Jefferson County Sheriff's Office Reaches Full Staffing for First Time in Years
The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office has achieved full staffing for the first time in years, welcoming three new corrections officers to its ranks. The Madras Police Department, meanwhile, continues to recruit for patrol officer openings.
Weather
El Niño Winter Outlook: Warmer, Drier Conditions Expected to Impact Jefferson County Through Spring
A strong El Niño pattern — already producing record-warm October temperatures in Central Oregon — is projected to bring below-normal snowpack and tighter water supplies through winter and into the 2027 growing season.