Ashland, Oregon Development News
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Ashland City Council - July 21, 2026
Published: Jul 21, 2026
Ashland City Council Approves Contract Extension for 911 Dispatch Services
The City Council approved a contract extension with Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO) for 911 dispatch services. The current contract for 2026-2027 is valued at $553,466.99. The city has maintained this relationship with ECSO since approximately 2009-2010, considering it the best practice and option for their 911 dispatch needs. The Police Chief confirmed the contract is accounted for in the budget and anticipates continued successful service. Council members expressed gratitude for the service and the technology supporting it, highlighting its value in critical situations.
Ashland Council Considers New 'Internal Services Director' Role to Oversee Finance, IT, and HR
The City Council discussed the potential creation of an 'Internal Services Director' position to oversee Finance, IT, and Human Resources departments. This role aims to streamline processes, foster collaboration between departments, and achieve operational efficiencies and cost savings. While some council members expressed concerns about consolidating specialized roles, the potential for cost savings, strategic partnership, and the lack of competitive offerings for a dedicated Finance Director role were noted. The position would effectively serve as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and report directly to the City Manager. The creation of this role is part of a broader effort to optimize city operations.
Ashland Council Advances Citizen Petition for Ballot Measure on Utility Fee Approval
The Ashland City Council considered and approved a motion to direct staff to draft a resolution for the August 4th meeting to place a citizens' petition on the ballot. This petition proposes a charter amendment requiring voter approval for new utility fees or increases unrelated to utility operations. Council members debated potential language revisions, including capping increases at CPI, excluding franchise fees, and addressing fees from outside jurisdictions. While the original petition language was presented to voters, council members suggested modifications to mitigate potential fiscal risks and legal issues for the city. The council's decision allows the measure to move forward towards a potential public vote.
Ashland Council to Explore Concept and Management Plan for Madron Ridge Property
The City Council is considering a proposal to initiate the development of a concept and management plan for the Madron Ridge property, a 1,900+ acre parcel. The city is in discussions with Western Rivers Conservancy, which is fundraising to purchase the property, with the intention of the city potentially acquiring it afterward. The planning process will involve extensive stakeholder engagement, including community members, trail representatives, conservation specialists, local government agencies, educational institutions, and tribal liaisons. Key objectives include fire mitigation, conservation, trail connectivity, and potential economic development. The council will have opportunities to review and approve the concept and management plans before any final decision on property acquisition. Some council members expressed concerns about the financial implications and the thoroughness of the management plan development, while others emphasized the property's potential benefits for the community.
Ashland Council Adopts New Zoning and Land Use Standards for Manufactured Home Parks
The City Council approved the second reading of three ordinances (3296, 3297, 3298) that establish a new Manufactured Home Park Zone (MHPZ), update associated land use standards, and amend the zoning and comprehensive plan maps. These ordinances allow for manufactured homes on individual lots and permit childcare and residential care facilities citywide. Amendments made since the first reading include removing specific properties from the maps. The council also adopted supporting findings of fact and conclusions of law, ensuring compliance with planning goals and codes.
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The Ashland News archive
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