Residents across Josephine County are being invited to take a more active role in shaping local public safety policy, as openings have been announced on the Josephine County Law Enforcement Service District Citizens Advisory Committee.
The county is currently seeking applicants to fill two available positions on the committee, which plays a direct advisory role to the Josephine County Board of Commissioners. The Law Enforcement Service District itself was created through voter approval under Measure 17-115, reflecting a community-driven effort to maintain and guide law enforcement services in areas outside the City of Grants Pass.
Formed as part of that same measure, the advisory committee exists to ensure that residents living within the district have a consistent voice in how those services are evaluated and supported. The district encompasses nearly all of Josephine County beyond city limits, making its reach broad and its responsibilities significant for rural and outlying communities.
The committee is made up of five volunteer members, each representing a different geographic area within the district, including Sunny Valley and Wolf Creek, the City of Cave Junction, the Illinois Valley, Murphy, and the greater Grants Pass area outside city boundaries. These positions are appointed by the Board of Commissioners, and members are expected to provide feedback, raise concerns, and offer recommendations on matters impacting law enforcement services throughout the district.
Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of every other month, creating a structured but manageable commitment for those willing to serve. While the role is unpaid, it offers a meaningful opportunity for residents to participate in local governance and help influence decisions that directly affect public safety, funding priorities, and community well-being.
Officials emphasize that the advisory committee serves as a bridge between the public and county leadership, ensuring that decisions are informed by the experiences and needs of those living in the district. Because the Law Enforcement Service District is funded by taxpayers, the committee’s input plays a crucial role in maintaining transparency and accountability in how those funds are utilized.
Applications for the open positions are available through the Josephine County Commissioners’ website, providing an accessible path for interested residents to apply. Community members with a vested interest in public safety, civic engagement, and local decision-making are encouraged to consider serving.
For those seeking additional details, LEAC Vice Chair Bill Ertel is available to answer questions and provide further information about the committee’s responsibilities and expectations.
As Josephine County continues to navigate the complexities of funding and maintaining law enforcement services across a large and diverse geographic area, the need for informed and engaged citizen input remains essential. These open seats represent not just a vacancy to be filled, but an opportunity for residents to step forward and help shape the future of their communities.