The latest and most comprehensive coverage of local News, Sports, Business, and Community News stories in the Klamath Basin, Southern Oregon and around the state of Oregon from Wynne Broadcasting’s BasinLife.com, KFLS News/Talk 1450AM/102.5FM, The Herald and News, and powered by Countertops by Topsecret. Call them at 541-850-8677.
Thursday, October 1, 2026
Klamath Basin Weather
Today
Sunny with a high near 83 degrees. Overnight, mostly clear, low near 47.
Today’s News Headlines
Klamath Promise hosted its annual graduation motivation event on Tuesday morning at the Ross Ragland Theater, aimed at assisting Klamath County and Tulelake seniors in their transition from high school to adulthood.
Jessie McClung, the program manager for Klamath Promise at the Southern Oregon Education Service District, reported an attendance of approximately 650 students, with an additional 150 receiving grab bags delivered to their respective schools, including Falcon Heights and the Klamath Learning Center.
McClung emphasized the importance of community support, stating that the event conveyed a unified message of hope for the students’ futures. Klamath County School District Superintendent Melissa Cole welcomed the students at the entrance, accompanied by Baxter the Badger, the Klamath Community College mascot, and Hootie the Hustlin’ Owl, representing the Oregon Institute of Technology.
Cole expressed her enthusiasm for the event, describing it as an exciting start to the seniors’ final year and assured them of her support, encouraging them to “finish strong” as she distributed grab bags and cheered them on throughout the event.
The Klamath County Fire District 1 will host a Fire Prevention Week Safety Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday at the main gate area of the Klamath County Fairgrounds.
This event coincides with the National Fire Protection Association’s Fire Prevention Week, which runs from October 4 to 10, and this year’s theme is “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.”
The National Fire Protection Association advises several safety practices for the use of battery-operated devices. It is essential to utilize the original cord and charger or those approved by the manufacturer, as incorrect chargers can damage batteries and heighten fire risks. Devices should be charged on hard, flat surfaces to prevent overheating, as soft surfaces can trap heat and obstruct airflow. Users should cease operation of any device that becomes excessively hot, swells, emits smoke, or produces unusual odors, as these are indicators of potential battery failure.
Additionally, it is advisable to unplug devices once fully charged to minimize heat buildup. For larger items such as e-bikes and power tools, charging should occur outdoors and away from exits due to the increased risk of rapid fire spread.
Lastly, when traveling by air, devices should be kept within sight during charging, and charging of e-cigarettes or vapes is prohibited to ensure the safety of all passengers.
The Bureau of Land Management has initiated a new firewood collection area, allowing local residents to utilize trees cut down to mitigate wildfire risks on public lands.
This initiative follows the Fremont Fuels Management project, which aimed to decrease hazardous fuels in the Wildland-Urban Interface, where forests intersect with communities. Crews have systematically removed juniper trees and other conifers to diminish the fuel load that could potentially feed a wildfire, thereby enhancing the safety of nearby neighborhoods.
Jami Ludwig, the manager of the Lakeview Field Office, emphasized that this firewood collection not only provides a direct benefit to the community but also aligns with the overarching goals of wildfire prevention.
Permits are available for collecting the hazardous fuels removed during the Fremont project, and while future efforts will involve burning remaining materials on-site to further reduce fuel loads, the current initiative allows for the practical use of these resources before any prescribed burns take place. After such burns, the area will be closed to firewood collection.
Permit Costs and Limits:
- Price: $5 per cord.
- Purchase Limits: Two-cord minimum, up to eight cords maximum per household per calendar year for personal use.
- Refunds: All purchases are final with no refunds issued.
Carlson’s Furniture & Mattress, a fixture in the Klamath Basin for nearly seventy years, is set to close its doors by the end of the year.
Founded in 1958 with a modest inventory of $3,500, the business evolved into a beloved establishment on South Sixth Street, serving generations of customers in the region. Remaining family-owned throughout its history, Carlson’s has been passed down through three generations, fostering strong ties within the community.
Owner David Carlson reflects on this legacy, attributing the longevity of the business to the support of local residents. The story of Carlson’s began in 1937 when Emil Carlson relocated from Tacoma, Washington, to Klamath Falls for a temporary job as an upholsterer. Captivated by the area, he chose to remain, eventually transitioning from mattress making to founding Carlson’s Furniture alongside his sons, Mel and Gene.
Recently, over 540 sixth-graders from the Klamath County School District participated in the annual Forestry Tour, reviving a long-standing tradition that had been on hold for six years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kidane Giday, an associate professor of forestry at Oregon State University’s Klamath Basin Extension Service, emphasized that the event offers students a unique opportunity to engage with natural resource professionals in a practical setting.
The primary aim is to enhance career awareness and foster an appreciation for the vital role that forest resources play in both the local economy and quality of life. The students were transported to a forested area west of Keno, where they engaged in eight interactive mini-classes covering topics such as forest products, navigation, reforestation, tree identification, soil science, forest management, fire control, and wildlife management.
Keno Fire Chief David Blair, who has been with the district since 2023, highlighted the significance of education in fire prevention, noting that informed schoolchildren are crucial in mitigating forest fire risks. Each day, two volunteers from the fire station accompanied the sixth-graders, reinforcing the program’s commitment to community involvement and education.
Pacific Power Foundation awards $56,000 to Southern Oregon organizations
The Pacific Power Foundation is pleased to announce its support for 13 organizations in Southern Oregon that are dedicated to environmental protection and community enhancement.
The funding will facilitate hands-on outdoor education for students, broaden volunteer initiatives, and bolster career training programs that foster community development.
Ryan Flynn, director of the Pacific Power Foundation and president of Pacific Power, emphasized the importance of these organizations in empowering local residents to acquire new skills and engage in environmental stewardship. He expressed satisfaction in supporting such impactful initiatives that benefit the community.
The grants were distributed through the Foundation’s Community Enhancement and Environmental Respect grant cycle, with a reminder that organizations can apply for the upcoming Safety and Wellness grant cycle by December 15. Among the recipients, the Assistance League® of Klamath Basin in Klamath Falls received $7,000, while the Friends of Klamath County Library, also in Klamath Falls, received $2,000.
The Department of the Air Force has published its final Environmental Impact Statement regarding the proposal to station a squadron of F-35A Lightning II fighter jets at Kingsley Field Air National Guard Base, which would replace the outdated F-15C/D fleet.
This initiative involves the 173rd Fighter Wing receiving up to 24 F-35A aircraft, along with two additional units, and entails substantial enhancements to the base’s infrastructure.
The transition aims to facilitate ongoing pilot training as the Air Force phases out older F-15s, which are becoming increasingly costly to maintain due to parts shortages.
According to the proposal, the initial F-35As are expected to arrive by 2027, with full operational capability anticipated by 2029.
The Air Force forecasts a 55% rise in annual airfield operations, increasing from 13,440 flights with F-15s in 2023 to 20,780 with F-35As to accommodate training requirements. While most flight training will occur at high altitudes, there will be a slight increase in low-level operations.
The plan encompasses the construction of new and renovated facilities within the existing lease area of the base, as well as two airfield projects in collaboration with the city of Klamath Falls and the Federal Aviation Administration, which will also result in the addition of approximately 30 new support staff, raising total personnel at the base to over 1,170.
Importantly, the proposal does not include the establishment of new military airspace, and Kingsley Field will not be involved in the storage or use of live air-to-ground munitions. Training will utilize existing airspace, simulators, and approved offsite ranges.
The Air Force also evaluated a “no action” alternative that would forgo the basing of new aircraft at Kingsley Field, concluding that this option would leave the 173rd Fighter Wing without a permanent flying mission, thereby jeopardizing national security and the objectives for pilot production.
Oregon Tech has reaffirmed its status as one of the leading universities in the United States, as highlighted in the U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Colleges 2027” rankings, which evaluated over 1,700 institutions.
In the regional rankings for the West, Oregon Institute of Technology secured the second position among public schools and was recognized as one of the best colleges for veterans. Additionally, it ranked 11th in best value schools and 19th in top performers in social mobility.
On a national scale, Oregon Tech achieved the 44th position in undergraduate engineering programs.
President Nagi Naganathan emphasized that the institution’s achievements are ultimately reflected in the success of its students and alumni. He noted that these accolades underscore the distinctive qualities of an Oregon Tech education, which includes rigorous academic programs, exceptional career preparation, and a strong return on investment, all of which foster social mobility.
Naganathan expressed gratitude for the dedication of faculty and staff in creating an applied learning environment that equips students with the necessary knowledge and experience to make meaningful contributions from the outset, thereby advancing the university’s mission to enhance the human condition.
Rogue Community College (RCC) has formed a collaboration with the Oregon Institute of Technology (OIT) to offer OIT coursework on RCC’s campus, enabling students to pursue a bachelor’s degree in select majors while remaining in the Rogue Valley.
This initiative, known as the 2+2 pathway, will provide upper-division courses at RCC, allowing students to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing Engineering Technology. To qualify for this program, students must first complete an Associate of Science degree at RCC before transitioning to OIT’s curriculum.
Oregon Tech Provost Hesham El-Rewini emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating that it creates valuable opportunities for students to achieve their educational aspirations. He noted that this collaboration not only enhances the educational foundation provided by RCC but also allows students to earn an Oregon Tech bachelor’s degree within their community.
This initiative serves as a practical solution for students, benefits local employers, and exemplifies the positive outcomes that can arise from institutional cooperation aimed at community service.
City of Klamath Falls Geothermal System Activation Has Begun For Winter
The City of Klamath Falls Water / Geothermal Division crews has begun activatation of the geothermal system for the fall and winter season.
Geothermal Maintenance Crews have started charging the downtown geothermal infrastructure and it should be operational within days. During this startup period, customers may experience reduced heat in their private systems until the end of business day on Thursday.
If you would like more information about our geothermal system seasonal shutdowns,
please call Water / Geothermal Division at (541) 883-5388 or City Public Works Department at (541) 883-5363.
KLAMATH COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
MAJOR WORK FOR THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 28, 2026
Klamath County will have work crews at the following locations. Please use caution when in these
areas and watch for flaggers. If you are able to avoid the work zones, please use an alternate
route for your safety and the safety of Klamath County employees and our contractors.
Campbell Road west of Ivory Pine Road
Traffic is limited to one lane over County Bridge 1210-4 (North Fork Sprague River).
Matney Way between Wong Road and Hill Road.
Traffic is limited to one lane over County Bridge 904-2 (Lost River), with a 10-ton weight limit in
effect. No semi-trucks are permitted.
ROAD CLOSED: East Langell Valley Road between Jones Road and Bunn Way including the
intersection with Bunn Way – Monday, August 10 through Thursday, October 1.
Traffic will no longer be allowed through the intersection of East Langell Valley Road and Bunn
Way as road drainage improvements begin. See attached map for detour route.
NIGHT WORK: Homedale Road between Sturdivant Avenue and Bartlett Avenue.
The City of Klamath Falls will be conducting night work from 9pm to 7am. Please contact the
City with any questions regarding this project at (541) 883-5363. Expect lane closures, delays,
and active work zones.
Wesgo Drive – Utility Work
Expect lane closures and delays for utility crossings.
In general, flagging stations will be set up at the end of the work zone and delays will be 0 to 20
minutes for the motoring public. Our goal is to minimize the delay to the motoring public. Other
minor work is occurring throughout the County, but we are only listing the major items in this
announcement. There may be adjustments of work schedules due to weather or other items
outside of the County’s control (breakdown of equipment, material/resource availability, etc.)
Please do not contact the County if you do not see work occurring, it could be finished already or
will be rescheduled.
Klamath County Public Works and the Board of County Commissioners appreciate the motoring
publics’ patience during the repair season for our local roads and bridges. If you have any
questions regarding work, please contact the Public Works Department at (541) 883-4696.
With the holidays ahead, the Klamath-Lake County Food Bank has announced several ongoing local food drives and is seeking assistance to provide meals during the Thanksgiving season.
Essential items needed for the holiday include boxed stuffing, chicken broth, dry gravy packets, canned cranberries, and canned vegetables, among others.
Donations can be dropped off at various locations, including the Holliday Jewelry Power Up food drive and the Klamath County Museum. For further information on how to contribute or participate, please contact these local organizations directly.
Klamath National Forest Fall Rx Burning Planned
Cooler temperatures and changing fall conditions are creating opportunities for the Klamath National Forest to conduct prescribed underburning as weather and fuel conditions allow.
Prescribed fire is an important tool used by the Klamath National Forest to reduce hazardous fuels, protect communities, improve wildlife habitat and forest health, reduce the potential severity of future wildfires, and promote public and firefighter safety.
Prescribed underburning is the intentional application of low- to moderate-intensity fire under carefully selected weather and fuel conditions. Before a prescribed burn is conducted, fire managers develop a detailed burn plan that identifies the specific conditions, or prescription, needed to safely meet project objectives.
“Prescribed fire requires careful planning and close coordination with weather and fuel conditions,” said Klamath National Forest Supervisor Chris L. Christofferson. “Our fire managers are prepared to take advantage of appropriate burn windows when conditions are favorable and it is safe to do so.”
Burn prescriptions consider factors such as temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction, fuel moisture and expected fire behavior. These conditions are monitored closely before and during burning. Fire managers also consider wind direction and other factors to minimize smoke impacts to nearby communities.
The Klamath National Forest has several prescribed burn units prepared across the forest and will conduct burning when conditions meet established prescriptions.
Goosenest Ranger District
- Cedar Mountain: 600 acres, approximately 10 miles southeast of Macdoel.
- First Creek: 224 acres, just north of Grass Lake.
- Military Pass Road: 1.5 acres to improve habitat for the rare Cooke’s phacelia plant.
Salmon-Scott River Ranger District
- Hayden Ridge: 240 acres, approximately 3 miles north of Callahan.
- Jess: 300 acres, approximately one-half mile south of Sawyers Bar.
- Scott Bar Mountain: 160 acres, approximately 12 miles west of Fort Jones.
Happy Camp Oak Knoll Ranger District
- Cade Mountain: 110 acres, just east of Happy Camp.
Prescribed burning may result in visible smoke in and around project areas. Smoke may linger for a day or two following ignition, depending on weather conditions. Residents and visitors can monitor local air quality at AirNow’s Fire and Smoke Map –https://fire.airnow.gov/#7.79/
Following a widespread wetting rain or snow event that effectively ends the fire season, fire managers will transition to pile burning. Pile-burning units are located throughout the forest and encompass thousands of acres.
Fire managers will continue to monitor weather and fuel conditions to identify suitable opportunities for prescribed burning. Project information, including updates on planned burning, will be shared through the Klamath National Forest Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/
The public is encouraged to stay informed and use caution when traveling near prescribed fire operations.
EVENTS IN THE BASIN
It’s 541 Jumps 4th Annual Pumpkin Festival at the Klamath County Fairgrounds this weekend. Enjoy 10 bounce houses, with unlimited play for just $15! Plus face painting, carnival games, food trucks, pumpkin patch, hay rides, and so much more! Admission is free!
The Klamath County Museum presents, a Night at the Cemetery this Saturday and Sunday evening at the Linkville Cemetery with the first tours beginning at 5:30. For ticket information, contact the Klamath County Library.
The Klamath County Museum is reintroducing two popular events this autumn: Night at the Cemetery and flashlight tours of the Baldwin Hotel Museum.
On October 2nd and 3rd, Spirited Guides will lead visitors through the historic Linkville Pioneer Cemetery, offering insights into the lives of those interred there, as well as tales of their potential afterlives.
Tickets can be purchased at klamathcounty.org. Additionally, for those seeking more thrills, the Baldwin Hotel Museum will host flashlight tours every Friday and Saturday from October 9th to 30th. Participants will explore the four stories of this historic, possibly haunted hotel on Main Street after dark, uncovering intriguing stories and mysteries from the past.
Reservations can be made by contacting the museum directly.
John Denver Tribute Show Concert Coming To Ragland Saturday!
Ted Vigil is America’s premier John Denver tribute artist and he’s coming to the Ross Ragland theater on Saturday, October 3rd!
Ted’s show embodies the late great music icon in look as well as voice with an unforgettable performance. He has performed with John Denver’s own lead guitarist, Steve Weisberg, who described Vigil’s performance as “uncanny”.
Ted has performed at John Denver’s own “Windstar Foundation” in Aspen, CO, John Denver’s former home. Performing throughout the country, Ted Vigil has wowed sellout crowds from coast to coast and everywhere in between.
For this wonderful and exciting show, expect to hear John Denver’s most beloved hits, like “Take Me Home, Country Roads’, ‘Leaving on a Jet Plane’, ‘Annie’s Song’, ‘Rocky Mountain High’, ‘Thank God I’m a Country Boy’, ‘Sunshine on My Shoulders’, and many more.
You will definitely not want to miss this performance. Without question, this is the closest you will ever see, or hear, to the great John Denver. Sat, Oct 3rd, 2026 at 7:00 pm. Click to buy tickets for the show at https://www.ragland.org/
Meet This week’s pet ready for adoption
at Klamath Animal Shelter… a dog named Hudson!
Hudson is a 4 1/2 month old male Mastiff mix. His mom is the mastiff mix and his dad is unknown.
Hudson is tan with white on his face, chest and feet, with some black highlights. Little Hudson weighs about 31 pounds but still has lots of growing to do.
Hudson is the last puppy from his litter, looking for his forever home. We hope you will come see him.
He is a friendly happy boy, loves toys, and he’s learning to walk on a leash, still needs to learn his basic commands. He has started on his house training, has been around children as young as 5 years old, and likes to chase kitties that run. ha!
If you are interested in adopting Hudson, the Klamath Animal Shelter is located at 4240 Washburn Way, open Monday through Friday from 12:00PM – 4:00PM.
You can reach the shelter at 541-884-PETS (541-884-7387).
View all adoptable pets anytime online at http://www.
And we are always accepting pet food and blankets and monetary donations at the shelter. Thank you.
BasinLife.com is a proud sponsor of Klamath Animal Shelter.
Play our You-Pick-Em Pro Football Contest from BasinLife.com!
Click the pic to enter and play!
Around the State of Oregon
For Oregonian voters, the 2026 General Elections Voter’s Pamphlet is now available to preview online at oregonvotes.gov/voterspamphlet.
The Oregon Voters’ Pamphlet is a source of information about candidates, measures, and voting rules.
Translated copies will be published Friday, October 9, and printed pamphlets will be delivered between October 7 and October 9.
Governor Tina Kotek and Senator Christine Drazan, R-Canby, will face off October 1 at the University of Oregon in their first debate ahead of the November 3 election
The university is partnering with KVAL, the Oregon Journalism Project and Lookout Eugene-Springfield for the event, which starts at 6 p.m. and will be live streamed.
Despite the debate taking place on UO’s campus, it will not feature a live audience.
Drazan and Kotek are set to debate two more times before the Nov. 3 election. KOBI and Southern Oregon University will hold a debate in Medford on Oct. 7. The pair will meet again Oct. 13 in Bend, at a debate hosted by KTVZ and The Source.
$4.6 Million in Federal Grants Coming to Oregon to Improve Public Safety
On September 30, 2026, the United States Department of Justice sent grant award notifications, totaling more than $4.6 million, to organizations and cities in Oregon to continue and enhance their work for public safety work in Oregon.
The United States Attorney’s Office wants to congratulate our local partners on their grant awards. The following are the recipients and their award amounts: Liberty House, $1,000,000.00, City of Gresham-East Multnomah Outreach Prevention Intervention, $1,005,000.00, Oregon CASA Network, $1,031,000.00, Oregon Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence Inc., $343,065.00, City of Beaverton-Behavioral Health Court, $500,000.00, and The City of Cottage Grove-Cottage-Grove Police Department $800,000.00.
“I thank these organizations for their work to keep our communities safe and congratulate them on their awards,” said U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon. “I am thankful the United States Department of Justice continues to support this important work and our partners throughout our Oregon communities.”
These funds come from Byrne Discretionary Community Project Grants/Byrne Discretionary Grants Program and OVW Fiscal Year 2026 State and Territory Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault.
The work that will be funded include increased medical clinic services to children who are victims of abuse or neglect, work to prevent and combat juvenile delinquency, reduce youth involvement in violent crime, and strengthen coordinated public safety efforts for youth and families, behavioral health aimed at curbing recidivism, Court Appointed Special Advocates for children removed from their home due to abuse or neglect, supporting the work to assist survivors of domestic and sexual violence, and police department fleet modernization aimed at restoring community trust, and improving public safety.
Asante and the nurses’ union at Rogue Regional Medical Center are working towards finalizing a new multi-year contract by the end of the month.
The two parties are scheduled to meet for the ninth time this Thursday, continuing negotiations that began in July, as their current agreement is set to expire at the end of September.
Following their meeting on September 10, both sides issued a joint statement emphasizing the importance of nurse scheduling, noting that their discussions enhanced mutual understanding of the complexities involved and highlighted the significance of scheduling in promoting a sustainable work environment for nurses while supporting the community.
The Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport is advancing its Corporate Apron Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Project following a series of state and federal funding approvals.
The work centers on the airport’s corporate apron, which serves visiting business aircraft. County plans call for resurfacing approximately 27,000 square yards of asphalt and fully rebuilding another 8,000 square yards. The project also includes improvements to an adjacent hangar taxi lane and the conversion of a grass island into pavement designed for heavier aircraft, creating a continuous connection to Taxiway B.
County officials identified a capacity problem beneath the existing pavement. Corporate jets using the airport have grown larger, and aircraft operating on parts of the apron routinely exceed the pavement’s designed weight capacity. The section slated for full reconstruction received a pavement condition rating of 55, classified as poor in the county’s grant application.
The improvements would give larger aircraft a stronger place to park and provide more room for aircraft movements on the ground. For Southern Oregon residents, the project concerns the airport’s business aviation facilities, rather than its passenger terminal or airline gates. Its potential regional effect lies in the airport’s ability to accommodate visiting companies and aircraft operators whose planes require heavier pavement and adequate parking space. The county anticipates that the added capacity could support business travel and activity at the airport’s fixed-base operators, which provide services such as aircraft fueling.
2026 Preparedness Events — Ready Fair
To cap off Preparedness Month, OEM invites the public to attend the Ready Fair on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, in Salem. This free, family-friendly event is designed to help our communities build resilience and preparedness.
The Ready Fair will bring together subject-matter experts and community partners to share practical tips and resources aligned with OEM’s Be 2 Weeks Ready program.
What to Expect:
- Expert-Led Booths on emergency alerts, food and water planning, sanitation, and more
- Interactive Activitiesincluding a fun, earthquake-themed escape room and shake simulator.
- Preparedness for All Ageswith kid-friendly stations and hands-on learning.
- Food Trucksand a chance to win a fully stocked emergency go-bag for your family.
Event Details:
- Date:Saturday, October 10, 2026
- Time: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
- Location:3930 Fairview Industrial Dr. SE, Salem, Oregon 97302
- Cost:FREE and open to the public
In addition to the Ready Fair, OEM is encouraging people to participate in the Great Oregon ShakeOut: October 15, 2026, at 10:16 AM (local time). Join millions of people across Oregon to practice earthquake safety. The ShakeOut is a fast, simple drill to help you learn how to Drop, Cover and Hold On.
And the Great Oregon Camp-In: October 16–18, 2026. Held the weekend after the ShakeOut, the Camp-In is an at-home preparedness exercise where households practice living without utilities, refine emergency plans and test their supplies. Participate for a few hours or the entire weekend.
“Community preparedness is strongest when people feel informed, supported, and empowered,” OEM’s Community Preparedness Coordinator Kayla Thompson, said. “Our goal is to meet Oregonians where they are, provide accessible resources, and encourage everyday steps that build resilience long before an emergency happens.”
For more information on Preparedness Month and the Be 2 Weeks Ready campaign, visit www.oregon.gov/oem.
Chronic Elude Suspect Arrested; Search Warrants Reveal Loaded Firearm, Large Quantities Fentanyl, Heroin, Meth, Drug Dealing Supplies
JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. – A drug dealer is in jail after multiple attempted eludes throughout Jackson County. The suspect, Ismael Garcia-Nava Jr., 32, of Medford, is lodged in the Jackson County Jail after crashing on September 19 while attempting to elude Central Point Police Department (CPPD).
Garcia-Nava was originally arrested August 12 after crashing during an attempted elude with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO). Due to jail overcrowding he was force released on August 22 before a search uncovered the drugs and firearm in his vehicle.
Multiple search warrants revealed more than 100g of fentanyl, nearly 400g of heroin, 28g of methamphetamines, scales, packaging material, and a loaded firearm. Garcia-Nava’s charges include unlawful possession, manufacture, and delivery of controlled substances, felon in possession of a firearm, multiple counts of elude, and reckless driving.
On August 12, JCSO deputies attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle for speeding. The vehicle eluded into an industrial area, where the deputy lost sight of it. Medford Police Department (MPD) officers located the vehicle and it continued to elude, ultimately crashing on Elk Street in Medford.
MPD assisted JCSO in establishing a perimeter and deploying a drone. The driver, Garcia-Nava, was spotted fleeing on foot and jumping fences within the perimeter and taken into custody without further incident. Garcia-Nava was found to have an active warrant for an unlawful delivery of heroin parole violation. He was lodged at jail and his vehicle was taken under a seizure warrant for further investigation.
On August 23, JCSO deputies executed a search warrant on the suspect’s vehicle and located 41g of fentanyl, 26g of methamphetamine, 93g of marijuana, packaging, a digital scale, and a loaded semi-automatic handgun. JCSO filed the additional charges and entered a warrant for Garcia-Nava’s arrest.
On September 19, Garcia-Nava attempted to elude a CPPD traffic stop near Hanley Road and West Pine Street in Central Point. After the pursuit was terminated, Garcia-Nava continued to drive recklessly through heavy traffic before crashing at the corner of North Front Street and Laurel Street. Garcia-Nava continued to elude on foot, discarding a shoulder bag before CPPD arrested him without incident.
On September 24, a search warrant was granted to search the discarded shoulder bag. Upon searching, CPPD officers located 396g of heroin, 64g of fentanyl, and 2.5g of meth as well as a digital scale, and drug packaging. — This case remains open. There is no further information available for release at this time.
PORTLAND, Ore.—A Fairview, Oregon, man was sentenced to federal prison this week for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Matthew Moultrie, 41, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison and 4 years’ supervised release.
“Removing drugs and guns from our streets is vital to protecting Oregon’s communities. When offenders repeatedly threaten public safety, we have a duty to hold them accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon. “This sentence reflects the serious harm Mr. Moultrie has caused—and the danger he would have continued to pose—to Oregonians.”
“Mr. Moultrie showed a complete disregard for the law by trafficking deadly drugs while armed, despite a prior drug conviction and repeated encounters with law enforcement,” said Robert A. Saccone, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division.
“This sentence holds him accountable and sends a clear message that DEA and our Homeland Security Task Force partners will work tirelessly to protect our communities. Through Fentanyl Free America, we are disrupting the fentanyl supply chain, reducing the availability of synthetic opioids, and saving American lives.”
According to court documents, the investigation began when Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents saw a courier from a Mexican drug trafficking organization (DTO) get in Moultrie’s car for an apparent drug transaction. The agents then stopped and searched Moultrie’s car and found about 220 grams of fentanyl, 65 grams of meth, and a gun.
Classified employees at Oregon’s seven public universities have successfully negotiated a tentative labor contract with the state’s higher education institutions.
SEIU 503 announced this development early Monday, just hours before a planned picket, effectively canceling the strike. The union, which represents a diverse group of workers including custodians, dining hall staff, and administrative personnel across various universities such as Oregon State and the University of Oregon, celebrated the agreement with festivities on multiple campuses, featuring pizza parties and coffee gatherings.
The proposed contract includes a 3% cost-of-living increase for this year and the next, alongside updated policies regarding layoff protections and health insurance. However, SEIU officials indicated that the full details of the tentative agreement will not be available for public review for several days.
Oregon Department of Administrative Services Announces Maximum Rent Increases for Landlords
Today, the Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) published the annual maximum rent increases allowed by law for calendar year 2027.
The maximum allowable rent increase percentage in 2027 for tenancies subject to ORS 90.324(b) is 10%.
Per ORS 90.324, “no later than September 30th of each year, the Oregon Department of Administrative Services shall calculate the maximum annual rent increase percentage allowed for the following calendar year:
- For tenancies subject to ORS 90.600 (1) in facilities* with more than 30 spaces, as six percent.”
- “For tenancies subject to ORS 90.600 (1) in facilities* with 30 or fewer spaces or for tenancy types subject to ORS 90.323, percentage is the lesser of:
- Ten percent; or
- Seven percent plus Consumer Price Index (CPI).”
To view the methodology, calculation and Consumer Price Index data, refer to the Maximum Annual Rent Increase 2027 (Excel file).
The allowable rent increase percentage for calendar year 2026 was 9.5%.
Questions related to the administration of the maximum allowable rent increase and other landlord-tenant concerns can be directed to Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS).
*”Facilities” is defined as manufactured dwellings and marinas.
The Regional Forest Practice Committee for eastern Oregon will meet at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 8 at the ODF Office, 611 20th St., La Grande. To join virtually, please use the Teams video conference information found on the agenda. To provide public comment, please email forestresources.committees@
The committee’s agenda includes:
- Division and field updates
- Compliance monitoring update
- Forest Practices Act training update
- Operator of the Year
- Workplan development
- Technical guidance development
The public may attend in-person or online via Teams. Public comments will be accepted. Accommodations for people with disabilities, and special materials, services, or assistance can be arranged by calling at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting at 503-945-7200 or by email at forestresources.committees@
Regional Forest Practice Committee for eastern Oregon meets Oct. 8
Regional Forest Practices Committees are panels of citizens – mandated under Oregon law – that advise the Oregon Board of Forestry and may assist the Board of Forestry in developing appropriate forest practice rules. The committees are comprised of citizens qualified by education or experience in natural resource management. In 1971, the legislature enacted Oregon’s Forest Practices Act which includes three Regional Forest Practices Committees, serving the Eastern, Northwest, and Southwest regions of the state. Under Oregon law, a majority of the committees’ members must be private forest landowners and logging or forest operations companies.
Oregon’s forests are among the state’s most valued resources, providing a balanced mix of environmental, economic, and social benefits. View more information on the RFPC webpage.
New facility expands access for youth mental health care in Central Oregon
REDMOND, Ore. – Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and community partners broke ground Sept. 29 on a new residential mental health treatment facility that expands access for youth in Central Oregon. The 16‑bed facility, located in Redmond, will provide critical care close to home for youth 12–17 experiencing a behavioral health crisis.
“OHA is proud to support a project that brings critical mental health treatment closer to home for young people and families in Central Oregon,” said Ebony Clarke, OHA behavioral health director. “This facility reflects Oregon’s commitment to building a behavioral health system where youth in our state can receive compassionate care when they need it most.”
Families, behavioral health practitioners, and legislative leaders spoke at the groundbreaking and acknowledged the facility will address long‑standing behavioral health service gaps in the region.
The project is supported in part by $3 million in general fund dollars provided by OHA through House Bill 5024. Additional funding came from the Oregon Department of Administrative Services, Central Oregon Health Council, federal appropriations, and contributions from the facility’s developer, Headwaters Behavioral Health.
This new facility adds 16 beds to Oregon’s existing pool of children’s psychiatric residential treatment beds. Two similar facilities funded through House Bill 5024 are Community Counseling Solutions’ STARS project in Boardman and Madrona Recovery Center in Tigard. Together, these facilities provide 36 children’s psychiatric residential treatment beds. Once the Deschutes County facility opens, the total number of beds available through these facilities will increase to more than 50 statewide.
The need for expanded youth services in Central Oregon was made clear in St. Charles Health System’s July 2024 report, Unmet Mental Health Needs for Youth in Central Oregon, which documented persistent shortages of psychiatric beds, crisis placements, and regional treatment options. The gaps left many young people waiting in emergency departments for extended periods while appropriate care was arranged.
“This facility represents something our community has talked about, hoped for, and worked towards for many years,” said Molly Wells-Darling, senior behavioral health director at St. Charles Health System. “When a young person is in crisis they deserve to have the right care at the right time at the right place, as close to home as possible.”
The new 9,200‑square‑foot facility will provide evidence‑based treatment that includes therapy, medication management, life skills training, and academic support. Youth may stay from 14 days to several months depending on individual treatment needs.
Headwaters Behavioral Health, which received project approval from the City of Redmond, will operate the facility. The organization also runs a youth residential treatment center in Idaho. The new facility anticipates opening in late 2027.
OHA continues to prioritize investments that strengthen Oregon’s behavioral health system and expand youth access to treatment statewide. Learn more about OHA supported programs for children and young adults athttps://www.oregon.gov/oha/bh/
Community leaders, legislators, and advocates gather for a groundbrekaing ceremony at the future site of a 16-bed youth behavioral health facility in Redmond located at 815 NW Canal Blvd. The facility will provide care for young people experiencing behavioral health challenges.
Oregon legislators have recently taken steps to regulate the use of Flock cameras, a technology that has garnered bipartisan attention from anti-surveillance advocates across the country.
As discussions for further legislation in 2027 intensify, concerns regarding the misuse of this technology have been met with widespread bipartisan criticism. A recent U.S. Senate hearing highlighted these issues, featuring testimony from a Florida woman who recounted her harrowing experience of spending 13 days in jail due to a Flock camera’s erroneous identification of her vehicle in a fatal hit-and-run incident.
Flock Safety, the Atlanta-based company that produces these cameras, has faced significant backlash from civil rights organizations, which argue that the data generated by these devices has led to wrongful accusations, enabled police harassment of individuals, and supported immigration enforcement efforts. In response to these concerns, several cities in Oregon have ceased the use of Flock cameras in the past year, although they continue to be utilized by private businesses and other entities.
FATAL CRASH – INTERSTATE 84 – GILLIAM COUNTY
On Sunday, September 27, 2026, at approximately 12:23 a.m., Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 84 near milepost 140 in Gilliam County.
The preliminary investigation indicated, a white Toyota Avalon, operated by Adhishwar Ramanathan (24) of Umatilla, was traveling eastbound on I-84 near Arlington when it left the lane of travel for an unknown reason and struck the end of the guardrail. The vehicle came to rest facing westbound in the eastbound lane.
The operator of the Toyota (Ramanathan) was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The highway was not impacted during the on-scene investigation.
OSP was assisted by the Gilliam County Sheriff’s Office, the North Gilliam County Rural Fire Protection District, and the Oregon Department of Transportation.
Oregon is requesting that approximately 11,000 food assistance recipients confirm their income as part of an effort to minimize errors in benefit payments.
The state initiated this process by sending out notifications on September 16, following the revelation of a SNAP payment error rate of 14.14 percent. Recipients are required to submit the necessary information by September 28 to avoid potential reductions or termination of their benefits.
Officials have indicated that these income reviews will extend into the following year.
Asante and the nurses’ union at Rogue Regional Medical Center are working towards finalizing a new multi-year contract by the end of the month.
The two parties are scheduled to meet for the ninth time this Thursday, continuing negotiations that began in July, as their current agreement is set to expire at the end of September.
Following their meeting on September 10, both sides issued a joint statement emphasizing the importance of nurse scheduling, noting that their discussions enhanced mutual understanding of the complexities involved and highlighted the significance of scheduling in promoting a sustainable work environment for nurses while supporting the community.
Oregon students have shown some advancement in state assessments, yet the latest results indicate that a majority still fall short of meeting the established standards in English, mathematics, and science.
The Oregon Department of Education has published the 2025-26 statewide assessment results, offering a current overview of student performance throughout the state.
In English language arts, 43.8% of students tested met or exceeded the state standard, while in mathematics, the figure was 32.9%, and in science, it stood at 30.6%.
Although state education officials recognize signs of progress, particularly in mathematics, they also emphasize that Oregon faces significant challenges ahead, asserting that mere additional tutoring and interventions will not suffice to achieve the desired improvements.
A new tax incentive has been introduced for Oregon employers for the 2026 tax year.
The Qualified Jobs Creation Tax Credit, which was enacted in Salem earlier this year, offers a $1,000 state income tax credit for each net new qualifying job created by Oregon businesses. Employers can accumulate a maximum of $10,000 annually; however, eligibility is limited to certain businesses.
This program specifically targets seven industries: advanced manufacturing, bioscience and biotechnology, clean technology, food and beverage processing, forestry and wood products, high technology, and outdoor gear and apparel.
Applications for the 2026 tax year are currently being accepted until October 31st.
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Commission has officially adopted the big-game regulations for 2027 during their recent meeting in La Grande, establishing a variety of hunting opportunities.
The new regulations encompass hunts for species such as deer, elk, pronghorn, black bear, cougar, bighorn sheep, and Rocky Mountain goats, with seasons and tag allocations largely mirroring those of 2026, aside from adjustments for calendar shifts.
Printed regulations are expected to be available by late November. In 2027, hunters will encounter modifications in the western Oregon elk hunts due to the Cascades Elk population remaining below management objectives. Specifically, the spike-only bag limit for legal weapon coast elk hunts will transition from the second to the first period, a strategic change aimed at distributing hunters more evenly across both periods.
Additionally, three Wildlife Management Units will alter their bag limit structure from two bull elk periods to one any bull period and one spike-only period, a measure designed to improve bull ratios to meet management goals.
Furthermore, the cow harvest in the West Cascades hunt will be curtailed by eliminating antlerless elk from the bag limits for various tags, including the General Archery Season Tag and the Santiam Unit Traditional Bow hunt, as well as for holders of an Oregon Hunting and Fishing Disability Permit.
Oregon Arts Commission awards $150,000 in Arts Learning grants to 15 organizations statewide
SALEM, Ore. – Fifteen Oregon arts organizations will receive $10,000 grants to strengthen K-12 arts education for the upcoming year through the Oregon Arts Commission’s Arts Learning grant program.
“Through this grant program, thousands of students will have an opportunity to engage with the arts in the classroom,” said Tiff Harker, Arts Education and Grants Coordinator. “Arts organizations partner with schools and students greatly benefit from the enhancement of cognitive skills, creative problem-solving and self-empowerment.”
Arts Learning grants support projects that provide K-12 students with responsive learning opportunities in and through the arts. These projects also foster the exchange of knowledge between artists and educators and positively impact the achievement, skills and attitudes of learners. Learn more about the program on our website.
Applications were evaluated by a community review panel. The panel’s funding recommendations were then approved by the Oregon Arts Commission.
Funds for this grant program are provided by the state of Oregon general fund through its support of the Oregon Arts Commission and by a federal grant to the Arts Commission by the National Endowment for the Arts.
Some of the grands included:
The Open Arts Center, Bend
To support equitable access to arts education for students at Bear Creek Elementary, a bilingual Title I school in Bend that recently lost dedicated arts instruction, The Open Arts Center will partner with school educators to provide three sequential six-week artist residencies during the 2026-2027 school year, engaging approximately 75-90 students in hands-on visual, performing and interdisciplinary arts experiences led by professional teaching artists. It will culminate with public showcases of student learning.
Sticks and Stones Studio, Jacksonville
To support the reintegration of K-5 art programming into the Ruch Outdoor Community School’s lasting curriculum through the transformation of their existing classroom space into a self-sustaining Teaching for Artistic Behavior studio. This will equip students and educators with the creative autonomy and artistic thinking skills to thrive independently, ensuring the program continues long after direct nonprofit involvement ends.
The Oregon Arts Commission provides leadership, arts programs and funding for nonprofits and artists through its grants, special initiatives and services. Commissioners appointed by the Governor establish policies and provide advisory support for public investment in the arts. Learn more at oregonartscommission.org and follow us on Facebook, and Instagram
FIND YOUR COMMUNITY FOOD BANK
Our network of food banks and pantries provides free food and groceries across Oregon. No proof of income or documentation required.
https://www.oregonfoodbank.org/
If you can’t make it to a food location, someone else can pick up food for you.You will just need to print and fill out the Authorized Representative form at https://lnkd.in/dsskUpkQ, and have them take it with them to the food sites. You can find step-by-step instructions at https://lnkd.in/dVBRxn-A.
Worried about recent changes or losing assistance?
Here are resources that can help: 211Info: Dial 2-1-1 or visit the 211Info food webpagefor information and referrals to more than 1,500 food resources across Oregon. Oregon Food Bank: Use the Oregon Food Bank’s Food Finder Map to find over 100 food pantries, free food markets or hot meal programs near you. Aging and Disability Resource Connection of Oregon (ADRC): Call 855-673-2372 or visit the ADRC food webpage to find local meal programs and food boxes in your area.
Oregon Department of Human Services – Many Oregonians may qualify for SNAP work or activity rule exemptions without realizing it
Could you qualify for an exemption to SNAP work or activity rules? Contact us so we can talk about your situation and your options! Common reasons people might qualify include:- You’re pregnant.- You’re physically or mentally unable to work.- You’re already working enough hours to meet the requirement.- You’re participating in a qualifying education or training program.- You have moved to an exempt county or waived Tribal land.- You are responsible for caring for a child or another person, depending on their circumstances. Learn more about exemptions in this news release: https://apps.oregon.gov/…/many-oregonians-may-qualify…Or visit https://oregon.gov/snapworkrules to find information about SNAP work rules and more.
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