Jackson County, Oregon, has unveiled its proposed $660.1 million budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year, reflecting a $20 million increase over the previous year. The budget prioritizes major infrastructure projects and public services while addressing rising personnel and insurance costs.
Key projects include a $40.9 million allocation for the Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport expansion to meet growing passenger demand. Additionally, $4.8 million is earmarked for a new animal shelter to replace the outdated facility built in the 1960s, and $24.2 million will go toward constructing a Multi-Use Pandemic Response Center at the Jackson County Expo.
Personnel costs have risen by 5%, with 15.33 new full-time positions added, while self-insurance premiums have increased by 31%. Despite these expenses, funding for expanded court and jail facilities remains unallocated but is listed as a priority should additional resources become available.
Public hearings on the budget are scheduled for April 7-8 at the county courthouse in Medford, with final adoption expected on June 4.
Summary Points:
- Proposed $660M budget marks a $20M increase from last year.
- Major projects include airport expansion, animal shelter replacement, and pandemic response center.
- Personnel costs up 5%; self-insurance premiums rise by 31%.
- Court and jail expansions remain unfunded priorities.
- Public hearings set for April 7-8; final adoption planned for June 4.
- Focus remains on infrastructure and disaster preparedness.