Jefferson County voters weighed in on three local funding measures Tuesday alongside the commissioner races — and delivered a split decision that will shape county services for years to come.

Library Bond Fails Again

The Jefferson County Library District’s bond measure was rejected by roughly 66% of voters, marking the second time in as many election cycles that the community has turned down a plan to build a new library facility.

The proposal would have funded a new building across the street from the current location at 241 SE Seventh Street in Madras, while converting the existing structure into a community center. The bond was designed to cost the owner of a $300,000 home about $123 per year.

Organizers noted this year’s proposal differed from the one that failed in 2025, but voters remained skeptical. Library district officials have not yet commented publicly on whether they will attempt another measure in a future election.

Camp Sherman Road Levy Renewed

Voters in the Camp Sherman Road District #18 approved a tax levy renewal by a wide margin, with nearly 80% voting yes. The renewal keeps rates unchanged for current taxpayers and will generate approximately $26,593 in revenue for the 2027–28 fiscal year — funds earmarked for ongoing road maintenance and driver safety in the Camp Sherman area.

Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire Levy Approved

The Sisters-Camp Sherman Rural Fire Protection District secured approval for a new levy to fund additional firefighter-paramedic positions, with about 65% of voters in favor.

The district cited a 65% increase in call volume over the past 15 years with no corresponding increase in staffing. The levy would cost the owner of a $300,000 home roughly $220 per year and is expected to allow the district to hire additional full-time emergency personnel.

For residents in Camp Sherman and the surrounding area — a stretch of corridor that depends heavily on this district for emergency response — the passage is seen as a critical step toward improving response times and capacity heading into a demanding fire season.