Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO) has pulled out of Jefferson County, suspending its regional economic development program just over a year into what was supposed to be a renewed five-year partnership with the county. The abrupt move has left local officials surprised and searching for next steps.
EDCO has long served as a key resource for business recruitment, retention, and expansion across Central Oregon. Its Madras office was a primary contact point for Jefferson County entrepreneurs, employers, and prospective businesses looking to plant roots in the region.
A Sudden Exit
The suspension came without significant advance notice to county leadership, who had believed the partnership was on solid footing after signing on for another multi-year term just last year. County officials expressed frustration over both the timing and the lack of communication ahead of the decision.
EDCO cited operational and resource challenges in its decision to step back from Jefferson County. The organization continues to operate in Deschutes and Crook counties, making Jefferson County the only one of the three Central Oregon counties to lose active EDCO representation.
What It Means for Local Businesses
For Jefferson County business owners and entrepreneurs, EDCO's departure creates a gap in services that have supported the local economy for years, including:
- Business retention and expansion visits
- Site location assistance for incoming employers
- Connections to state and regional incentive programs
- Workforce development coordination
The closure is a significant setback for a county that has worked in recent years to diversify its economy and attract family-wage jobs. Jefferson County's unemployment rate has historically run above the state average, making business development services particularly important for the long-term health of the local economy.
The Issue Surfaces in Mayor's Race
The EDCO departure surfaced as a topic during a Madras mayoral candidate forum this week. At least one candidate noted that EDCO remains a valuable regional resource despite the local office closing, while others called for the city and county to explore alternative economic development frameworks that could fill the void.
Current Mayor Mike Lepin, who is stepping away from the role after the November election, has presided over an administration that leaned on EDCO partnerships as part of the city's economic development strategy.
What's Next
Jefferson County commissioners and the Madras City Council are expected to address the gap at upcoming meetings. Residents and business owners with immediate questions about economic development resources can contact the Oregon Small Business Development Center (SBDC) network, which maintains a presence in the region and offers free advising services to entrepreneurs.
The Madras Bulletin will continue to follow this story as county and city officials work to determine their path forward.