The Grants Pass & Josephine County Chamber of Commerce is expressing its appreciation to the Board of Commissioners for taking decisive action at their budget adoption meeting to fund the Sheriff's Office in a way that closely reflects the department's original request.
After deliberation and public input, the Board last week voted to make meaningful changes to the Budget Committee's recommendation and bring the final adopted budget in closer alignment with the Sheriff's proposed plan.
Chamber President Terry Hopkins said the outcome honors the commitment made to voters in 2023 when the Law Enforcement Service District was passed with the expectation that it would restore 24/7 patrol coverage and strengthen public safety.
The Sheriff's original budget included strategic investments made possible by the new service district -- including the addition of patrol deputies, detectives and support personnel -- while also requiring $2 million less in general fund support than in previous years.
Hopkins said the action by the Board moves the County substantially closer to achieving those goals. He said their decision sends a strong message that public safety remains a top priority in Josephine County.
The Chamber applauds this step toward rebuilding capacity in the Sheriff's Office and restoring trust with the public. Businesses, families and visitors alike depend on a safe, well-supported community.
