Good morning, Grants Pass.

Drivers in Grants Pass pay nearly $4.41 per gallon as the switch to summer-blend gasoline, scheduled refinery maintenance, high transportation costs, and few competing stations combine to raise prices—stretching local budgets.

This mix of factors leaves residents facing higher fuel expenses every time they fill up.

Grants Pass will hold a listening and learning session Monday, May 19 at 6 p.m. at the Council Chambers of City Hall* to discuss Oregon’s House Bill 3115 that sets objectively reasonable restrictions on public camping.

The event will be streamed online and residents can email their questions before the session.

Pacific Power is hosting a public forum today from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Josephine County Fairgrounds Floral Building in Grants Pass—where officials will explain wildfire season safety measures including enhanced outage maps and smart device pilots.

A coalition called Pathways to Stability is working with the city to end sanctioned homeless encampments by proposing a one-stop stabilization center that provides long-term support—official agreements may be finalized in the coming months.

The group said its new model aims to shift from temporary shelters to solutions that help people gain independence.

Residents in Oregon are saying the justice system protects the powerful instead of shielding the innocent.

In Josephine County, critics point to dismissed ethics complaints (such as one against Commissioner John West) and selective firings after whistleblower actions as reasons they demand reform.

Commissioner Chris Barnett said he is a victim of lawfare when legal actions do not favor him, but local critics argue he often uses the law to protect himself+ a recent case showed the courts holding him accountable for his actions.

The debate now focuses on whether his claims of unfair treatment distract from his own use of legal shields.

The Nooners Group Meeting

12-1 p.m. — Newman United Methodist Church — Closed meeting — Engage in a supportive discussion focused on recovery from alcohol addiction.

Boatnik Festival 2025

All day — Riverside Park — Free entry — Celebrate over 60 years of community fun with activities and festivities at this beloved annual festival.

Senior Living Awards Tour

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Forest Meadows — Free entry — Discover award-winning senior living communities with exceptional care and activities.

2025 Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event

9 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Southern Oregon Sanitation — Free entry — Safely dispose of hazardous household materials while protecting your home and environment.

Shining a Light on Hunger

6-9 p.m. — Vista 222 — Donation-based — Raise awareness and funds to combat hunger while enjoying breathtaking views.

Comedy of Errors

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Walport Family Cellars — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy a lively performance of Shakespeare's Comedy of Errors in a picturesque vineyard setting.