Good morning, Grants Pass.

A Josephine County resident asked if she could give her homegrown food directly to the homeless but learned that a city ordinance passed in March 2024 now requires prior approval for food distribution in public places.

Residents wanting to help should work with local nonprofits—such as the Grants Pass Gospel Rescue Mission—so that donations follow the new legal rules.

Grants Pass now can enforce overnight camping bans at seven parks—Eckstein, Fruitdale, Lawnridge, Morrison Centennial, Tussing, Redwood, and Westholm—after Judge Sarah E.

McGlaughlin modified a preliminary injunction from a lawsuit by Disability Rights Oregon; city officials are discussing options to balance park use and meet the needs of homeless residents.

Local drivers in Grants Pass face street closures near Grants Pass High School today from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.—the city will close A Street between Dean Drive and 9th Street and set up barricades at Flint Street to support a safe graduation ceremony while keeping emergency routes open.

Today the Josephine County Budget Committee meets at 10:00 a.m. in the Anne Basker Auditorium to review the proposed fiscal year spending plan, elect a new Chair, and allow public comment as Finance Director Ruth Nelson presents the budget message and outlines expected department expenditures.

A letter from the editor challenged Commissioner Barnett for spending $2,500 on challenge coins meant to boost morale—critics say the coins, which were awarded without public input, only served as personal promotion.

The letter urges Barnett to refund the money and show true leadership as county budgets face tight oversight.

Josephine County Commissioners will resume KAJO radio community programming in June to improve transparency after a pause raised concerns over public access+ Commissioner Ron Smith led efforts to restore the direct dialogue with residents.

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.