Jefferson County voters can expect their November general election ballots in mailboxes starting today, Wednesday, October 14 — the same day the state of Oregon begins its mass mailing to all registered voters statewide.
The November 3 general election features a notably full slate of local races, including contested seats for Madras mayor and city council, Jefferson County sheriff, and a five-year renewal of the county jail levy. County assessor, clerk, and treasurer offices also appear on the ballot, though each has only a single declared candidate.
Key Dates to Know
- October 14: Counties begin mailing ballots to active voters
- October 27: Public certification of the tally machine — 1:30 p.m., Jefferson County Administrative Building Conference Room, 66 SE D St., Madras (open to the public)
- October 27: Last recommended day to mail your ballot back
- November 3: Election Day — drop boxes close at 8 p.m.
- November 10: Last day for mailed ballots to be received (must be postmarked by Nov. 3)
- November 24: Deadline to cure unsigned or challenged ballots
What's on the Ballot
Jefferson County voters will weigh in on several consequential local races this fall:
- Madras Mayor and City Council: Multiple seats are contested in the county seat, giving residents a direct voice in city leadership heading into 2027.
- Jefferson County Sheriff: A contested race for the county's top law enforcement office — one of the most closely watched local elections in years.
- Jail Levy Renewal: Voters will decide on a five-year renewal of the levy that funds operations and maintenance of the Jefferson County jail, a critical piece of the county's public safety infrastructure.
Public Tally Machine Certification on Oct. 27
As ballots begin coming back, the Jefferson County Clerk's Office will hold a public certification of the vote-counting tally machine on October 27 at 1:30 p.m. at the county administrative building at 66 SE D St. in Madras. Community members are welcome to attend and observe the process — a standard step in Oregon's transparent election administration.
How to Return Your Ballot
Ballots may be returned by mail (postmarked by Nov. 3) or dropped off in person at any official drop box, including the one located outside the Jefferson County government offices in Madras. The county encourages voters to return ballots by mail no later than October 27 to ensure timely delivery.
For questions about your ballot, registration status, or drop box locations, contact the Jefferson County Clerk's Office at 66 SE D St., Suite C, Madras, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.