The upcoming Sheriff’s budget hearing on June 4 at 4 PM at the Anne Basker Auditorium is a critical event for the residents of Josephine County. Community members are encouraged to attend and express their concerns regarding the funding for law enforcement, a topic that has sparked significant debate and controversy.
Ensuring the safety and security of our community is paramount. Last November, voters approved the formation of a Law Enforcement Service District to guarantee 24/7 patrols across Josephine County, excluding the City of Grants Pass. Despite this, the recommended budget for the upcoming fiscal year does not include funding for new sheriff patrol positions, despite the district’s projected first-year levy amount of approximately $5.6 million.
The Josephine County Board of Commissioners had initially committed to prioritizing law enforcement funding through the general fund. However, recent budget proposals have seen a reduction in the Sheriff’s funding, resulting in a shortfall of $3-5 million. This has led to frustration and disappointment among voters and officials alike.
Preliminary budget discussions have been contentious. During the May 15 Budget Committee meeting, one member highlighted that “54% of the people in this county voted for something that is not in this budget,” expressing that the voters are likely to be upset. This sentiment echoes a broader concern that voters were misled about the benefits of the new district.
In the subsequent May 22 meeting, public comments continued to criticize the budget allocation. One concerned citizen suggested reallocating $1.6 million to the Sheriff’s budget without impacting other departments, emphasizing the need for the County Commissioners to honor their commitments to law enforcement.
The Sheriff’s department should not have to plead for adequate funding. The Board of Commissioners must maintain at least $900,000 from the general fund to ensure 24/7 patrol coverage. Furthermore, the allocation is currently $2 million less than in 2018, exacerbating the issue. The campaign for the new district had promised increased staffing and patrol services, leading to its narrow approval. Failure to deliver on these promises undermines public trust and community safety.
The final County Budget Committee meeting is on June 5, where critical decisions will be made. While the Budget Committee’s role is significant, the ultimate responsibility lies with the three County Commissioners. They have the power to amend the budget and adjust throughout the year. It is essential for them to prioritize law enforcement resources to reflect the voters’ will and enhance public safety.
Residents are urged to contact their County Commissioners to advocate for appropriate funding. You can reach the Board of County Commissioners office at (541) 474-5221, submit a citizen request form at the Josephine County Citizen Request Center, or visit in person at the Josephine County Courthouse.
The budget hearings on June 4th are crucial for the future of law enforcement in Josephine County. Community involvement is vital to ensure that the Sheriff’s department receives the necessary funding to fulfill its commitments and maintain public safety. Let’s see if the County Commissioners will honor the voters’ decision and allocate the resources needed for effective law enforcement.
