Madras Police Department swears in first code enforcement officers
KTVZ
(Update: Adding video)
MADRAS, Ore. (KTVZ) – The Madras Police Department announced that Code Enforcement Officers Duane Ledford and Aija Elder were formally sworn in Wednesday under a newly established Code Enforcement Officer Oath of Office.
“This is the first time the Madras Police Department has administered an oath specific to code enforcement, marking an important step in strengthening the city’s commitment to public safety, accountability, and community livability,” the city said in a news release that continues below:
While the authority for code enforcement officers to investigate violations and issue citations has long existed within the Madras Municipal Code, the city has historically emphasized education and voluntary compliance.
Administering this oath helps formalize the responsibilities of the role and reinforces the department’s intent to utilize the full scope of available tools when addressing ongoing or unresolved violations that impact the safety, appearance, and quality of life in Madras.
“Code enforcement plays a vital role in maintaining safe, healthy, and attractive neighborhoods,” said Interim Police Chief Garrison. “This step ensures our officers have both the clarity and the authority they need to support residents, uphold our standards, and help keep Madras a community we can all be proud of.”
Aligned With Council Strategic Goals
Formalizing the code enforcement role directly supports several priorities identified in the City Council’s adopted 2025–26 Strategic Goals and Annual Plan, including:
Goal #1 – Public Safety• Strengthen the Code Enforcement Team and Process• Identify Measurable Outcomes for Reducing Code Violations• Identify and Track Distressed Properties• Create a Plan to Bring Distressed Properties within Code• Provide Quarterly Reports to Council on Open and Closed Cases
Goal #3 – Increase Livability/Beautification of Madras• Increase Community Involvement in Cleanup & Beautification Projects• Develop Anti-Vandalism Strategies for Public Spaces• Promote a community that is filled with beauty and provides the amenities our community desires
By administering this oath and formalizing citation authority, the City of Madras and Madras Police Department are taking a clear and practical step toward advancing these Council goals and supporting safe, clean, and welcoming neighborhoods.
Commitment to Fair, Respectful, Community-Focused Enforcement
Officers Ledford and Elder have demonstrated a strong commitment to serving the community with fairness, respect, and integrity. While voluntary compliance remains the department’s preferred approach, the ability to issue citations ensures the team can take necessary action when health, safety, or livability are impacted.
How to Report Concerns
Residents who observe potential ordinance violations, such as nuisance issues, distressed properties, abandoned vehicles, or other code-related concerns, are encouraged to use the City’s online Code Enforcement Complaint Form:
https://www.madras.gov/commdev/page/code-enforcement-complaint-form
Submitting concerns online ensures they are documented, tracked, and assigned for follow-up, improving responsiveness and transparency.