Local News

The Grants Pass City Council heard updates from local organizations during today's workshop.

SOREDI began the 11:45 a.m. workshop presenting its impacts to the county and Grants Pass, showing over 145 jobs being created by businesses. Other contributions included $991K in loans deployed to local businesses, and $17.3M in private capital investment being facilitated.

The RCC Small Business Development Center's services include Confidential No Cost Advising, and Low Cost Business Classes. In 2025, the SBDC served 580 clients. Starting July 1st, SBDC advising services will continue through the Rogue Valley Outreach Center.

The Grants Pass Chamber of Commerce showed 3,062 in-person visitors and 2,242 phone calls to the Visitor Center. The chamber saw 98 new members with an 88% retention rate, a 95.5% increase in engagement, and goals to expand Lemonade Day, Small Business Health Insurance, and Workforce Development.

The Destination Marketing Organization presentation showed its promotion of attendance to local attractions, and has promoted over 750 local businesses. There was $172.1M in annual visitor spending in the county, with 2,030 jobs supported by tourism in 2025. The city's targeted marketing strategy is reportedly outperforming the state average.

Main Street Grants Pass started the final presentation with a six month outlook, aiming to grow their membership base, engage their four subcommittees, improve communications, and enhance First Friday. Council was presented the Main Street Approach, highlighting Economic Vitality, Design, Organization, and Promotion. An Annual Flat Rate has been introduced in place of tiered memberships, lowering the entry barrier, and 34 members currently comprise Main Street Grants Pass.