Election Day has arrived in Jefferson County, and the ballot is a consequential one. Oregon voters cast ballots by mail, with the deadline to return ballots to a drop box set at 8 p.m. tonight. Contests for Madras mayor, three city council seats, county sheriff, and a critical jail levy renewal will all be decided when results are tallied after polls close.
Madras Mayor and City Council
Madras voters are choosing a new mayor and three city councilors. The positions are nonpartisan, with the mayor serving a two-year term beginning January 1, 2027, and council seats carrying four-year terms through 2030. The races give residents a direct say in how the city manages growth, public services, and community development as Madras continues to evolve.
Sheriff Race: Doizaki vs. Marinelli
The Jefferson County Sheriff race is among the most closely watched contests on the county ballot. Incumbent Sheriff Regina "Reggie" Marinelli, a Democrat, faces a challenge from Republican Randall Doizaki. The sheriff oversees law enforcement for the county's unincorporated areas, including Crooked River Ranch, Culver, Metolius, and rural stretches of Jefferson County not served by municipal police departments.
The outcome of the race will shape public safety direction for the county for the next four years.
Jail Levy Renewal: $1.69 Per $1,000
Jefferson County voters will also decide on Measure 16-118, a five-year local option levy renewal to fund jail operations and maintenance. The proposed rate is $1.69 per $1,000 of assessed property value — continuing the current levy that was first approved in 2021 and is set to expire at the end of fiscal year 2026-27.
The levy funds day-to-day operations at the Jefferson County Jail. Without renewal, the county would face a significant gap in its public safety budget.
How to Return Your Ballot
Ballots must be received by 8 p.m. tonight — not just postmarked. Drop boxes are available at multiple locations around Jefferson County. Voters can also drop off ballots in person at the Jefferson County Clerk's office at 66 SE D Street in Madras.
First results are expected from the Oregon Secretary of State's office shortly after polls close. The Madras Bulletin will report results as they become available.