Category: ktvz-local-news

Matthew Draxton

MADRAS, Ore. (KTVZ) — Following her April 15th resignation as commissioner of the Madras Redevelopment Commission, Janine Metteer is now citing issues that she felt were “above my pay grade” in a Madras Pioneer interview.

Metteer expressed frustration with what she described as a lack of transparency and a disconnect between city priorities and community needs. She also raised concerns about city spending and growing debt.

Metteer, who grew up in Madras, told the paper she felt she could have more impact by leaving her position than by staying. She pointed to a perceived decline in local businesses and neighborhoods in the city.

The news comes as KTVZ has reported on several high-profile departures, including the recent departure of an interim city administrator, the continuing struggle to appoint a new police chief, and the resignation of the city’s finance director.

However, the news is not all bad in the Jefferson County area. The county has seen significant economic improvement, moving from the state’s most economically distressed county in 2023 to the eighth position in a new report.

Metteer is encouraging residents to get involved and speak up at city council meetings.

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Kelsey Merison

MADRAS, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Central Oregon Livestock Auction recently held a feeder sale, drawing a large crowd and featuring nearly one thousand cattle on the auction block. The event highlighted the robust state of the cattle industry, which remains strong while other sectors may be struggling.

Feeder cattle are defined as being under one year old. This particular sale was noted as one of the larger events, as many of the cattle had been weaned and reached sufficient size for sale. The auction attracted a diverse range of bidders, from large meat companies purchasing hundreds of head to individuals acquiring one or two animals for their backyards.

Tim Messner, the sale yard foreman at the Central Oregon Livestock Auction, spoke on the industry’s current health. “Very strong. Yes, yes… Seems like we’re setting set new records every week. We’re all trying to work hard for the industry,” Messner said. “We all have an understanding that if we work together the best we can, then we’re going to create the best price for our customers.”

Bidding at the auction can extend throughout the entire day. While ranchers often compete as rivals during the bidding process on the auction floor, a sense of community prevails outside the arena. A cafe located next to the main arena serves as a gathering place where attendees can share breakfast and lunch.

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Triton Notary

MADRAS, Ore. (KTVZ) 43 Year old Sir Charles Ariesis Williams was taken into custody on April 26th after leading law enforcement on vehicle and foot pursuits in Madras. The incident began at approximately 2:11 p.m. with reports of erratic driving and a possible domestic violence situation. Williams was apprehended by a K-nine unit following a vehicle crash and subsequent foot chase.

Frontier 911 dispatchers received the initial request for officers to respond to the area of SE 7th Street and SE G Street. Reports indicated a male driver was erratically trying to “run down” another vehicle and a female on scene. Law enforcement also received additional reports of a possible domestic violence situation involving Williams and his female passenger.

A deputy from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office located Williams’ vehicle while officers were en route to the scene. The deputy initiated a traffic stop, but Williams failed to stop and attempted to elude the deputy, leading to a vehicle pursuit. Williams later crashed into a passerby vehicle in the area of NE 10th Street and NE Oak Street. He then ran from the scene, prompting law enforcement to pursue him on foot and establish a perimeter around the area.

A shelter-in-place request was distributed to citizens in surrounding areas out of an abundance of caution while the situation unfolded. Assistance was requested from the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office for a K-nine unit to track the suspect. Law enforcement units responded to 410 NE Oak Street, where Williams was believed to be hiding in a large area of shrubbery. After multiple verbal warnings and commands, the K-nine unit deployed the K-nine to search the area. The K-9 located Williams and officers on scene took him into custody. Williams received immediate medical treatment and care from Jefferson County Fire and EMS and was transported to St. Charles Hospital in Madras. He was taken into physical custody on April 27, 2026, at St. Charles Hospital in Bend, Ore., with assistance from the Bend Police Department. Williams was booked and lodged at the Jefferson County Jail on multiple charges. These include Robbery III, Coercion, Kidnapping, Assault III, Attempt to Elude by Vehicle, Attempt to Elude by Foot, Escape III, Criminal Mischief I, DUI, Reckless Driving, Harassment, Criminal Mischief III, Reckless Endangering, Unauthorized Entry into a Motor Vehicle and Failure to Perform the Duties of a Driver.

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Triton Notary

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — Oregon Congresswoman Janelle Bynum and Alabama Congressman Shomari C. Figures recently introduced two pieces of legislation in Congress. The Save SNAP Act and the Rural Health Resilience Act aim to bolster federal food assistance and provide financial aid to rural health centers across the United States.

The Save SNAP Act is designed to protect access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by ensuring federal dollars continue to reach states even if new budget proposals prevent them from meeting cost-sharing requirements. Concurrently, the Rural Health Resilience Act focuses on delivering essential financial assistance to rural health facilities.

Congresswoman Bynum, representing Oregon’s 5th congressional district, highlighted the importance of equitable access to basic services for all Americans. “Access to necessities like health care or food shouldn’t be dependent on where you live,” Rep. Bynum said. “I am proud to introduce these two bills to make sure rural health centers get the support they need and Americans across the country have access to the food assistance they rely on.” The Save SNAP Act directly addresses potential disruptions to federal food assistance. It would ensure that states continue to receive federal SNAP dollars even if they cannot or do not meet new cost-sharing requirements outlined in the Republicans’ budget bill. Congressman Figures, who represents Alabama’s 2nd congressional district, co-introduced both bills. The Rural Health Resilience Act specifically seeks to provide financial support to rural health centers, aiming to strengthen their operations.

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Kelsey Merison

JEFFERSON COUNTY, Ore. (KTVZ) — Transform your yard into a fire-resistant haven with these stunning plant options that not only enhance your home’s defensible space but also keep the skies clear of smoke.

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office posted to Facebook on Monday, “Please don’t plant fire-bombs next to your porch. Swap the dry brush for these fire-resistant beauties and help us keep the smoke out of the sky.”

It says the Ponderosa Pine (Conifer tree), Mock orange (Deciduous shrub), Crabapple (Deciduous tree), Carol Mackie (Evergreen shrub), Salvia (Perennial), and Coneflower (Perennial) are all great options to use in your yard.

The agency said to remember “Zone Zero” (0-5 feet from the house) where nothing flammable should be.

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Kelsey Merison

CROOK COUNTY, Ore. (KTVZ) — Crook County Search and Rescue was activated Saturday evening for a possible SOS signal on the Lookout Mountain Trail. Teams conducted a search that lasted several hours before being called off around 11 p.m., with no injured or lost person located.

Dispatch received the possible distress signal, though no information was initially available beyond a potential location. Search and Rescue teams responded to the general alert.

Search and Rescue teams proceeded to the Lookout Mountain Trail to conduct their operation. Searchers thoroughly cleared the trail and the surrounding area in their efforts to locate a possible subject. The operation was called off at 11 p.m.

Even without finding an individual in distress, Search and Rescue officials stated their commitment to responding to potential emergencies to ensure no one is in need of assistance.

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Matthew Draxton

MADRAS, Ore. (KTVZ) — Jefferson County has demonstrated significant economic improvement, moving from the state’s most economically distressed county in 2023 to the eighth position in a new report. Business Oregon released the latest ranking on Feb. 12, 2026, reflecting substantial gains in the local economy.

This progress signals a stronger economic outlook for the Madras, Ore., area.

The state’s designation is based on a standardized economic index that evaluates counties using key indicators. These indicators include unemployment, income levels, wage growth and employment trends.

The improved ranking reflects measurable gains and sustained efforts by the county to stabilize and grow its local economy.

Jefferson County Board of Commissioners Chair Mark Wunsch attributed the improvement to years of dedicated work and strong partnerships. Wunsch highlighted the impact of community investments.

“This improvement reflects years of disciplined work and strong partnerships across Jefferson County,” Wunsch said. “Moving from the most distressed ranking to eighth shows that community investments in economic development, workforce and infrastructure are making a real difference for our residents and businesses.”

County officials emphasized that the progress stems from collaboration among public agencies, local employers and community partners working together to strengthen economic opportunity.

Jefferson County Commissioner Kelly Simmelink acknowledged the progress but stressed the ongoing commitment to further development. Simmelink noted the current milestone as an indicator of a successful path.

“We’re encouraged by this progress, but we’re not finished,” Simmelink said. “Our focus remains on building a more resilient local economy that creates strategic opportunities across all parts of the county. This milestone indicates we’re on the right path.”

Fellow Jefferson County Commissioner Seth Taylor noted that the positive change is a result of long-term planning and strategic investments. He recognized the collaborative effort required for sustained success.

“This change didn’t happen overnight,” Taylor said. “It’s the result of collaboration between local government, businesses and community partners who are committed to long-term success. We’re proud of the progress and motivated to keep moving forward.”

Brenna Fulks, the County’s Economic Development Program Manager, stated that the shift in ranking indicates growing momentum for Jefferson County. Fulks confirmed positive trends in key economic indicators and outlined continued efforts.

“This shift in ranking is a strong signal that Jefferson County is gaining momentum,” Fulks said. “We’re seeing positive trends in key indicators and we’ll continue working to attract investment, support local employers and expand economic opportunities throughout the county.”

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Matthew Draxton

WARM SPRINGS, Ore. (KTVZ) — Indian Head Casino is hosting a series of job fairs this week, starting tomorrow, with opportunities in food and beverage, facility management and more. The events, which will also take place at Plateau Travel Plaza in Madras, offer a chance to meet managers and explore various roles. Don’t miss the chance to apply and learn about the casino’s expanded property.

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Matthew Draxton

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Bend Farmers Market will return to downtown Bend on Wednesday, May 6, marking the start of another season. The market, located in Brooks Alley just off Drake Park, offers fresh food, community connections and a lively atmosphere.

The market aims to support local farmers, ranchers, bakers and artisan food producers in Oregon, with a focus on Central Oregon agriculture.

The Bend Farmers Market is dedicated to the viability of local food producers who cultivate, raise and create food within Oregon. Shoppers can find seasonal produce, pasture-raised meats, eggs, locally made cheeses, fresh flowers, baked goods, pantry staples and handcrafted food products.

Each Wednesday offers a view of the high desert growing season and a chance to meet the people who produce the region’s food firsthand.

The market operates every Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., starting May 6 and continuing through Oct. 14, 2026, in Brooks Alley in downtown Bend.

The Bend Farmers Market welcomes shoppers using EBT/SNAP benefits. The market offers a $20 weekly match through the Double Up Food Bucks program for fresh fruits and vegetables. It also provides a $10 weekly Protein Perks match for cheese, meat, poultry, eggs and seafood.

Ashley Thompson of Sungrounded Farm noted her farm’s extensive preparation for the upcoming season. Thompson stated, “We have been hard at work planting and cultivating food for what will be our eighth season vending at the Bend Farmers Market. We hope to see you there to support our amazing community of local producers and celebrate the beginning of the high desert growing season with us.”

Courtney Schuur of North 44 Farm encouraged those seeking locally sourced options to visit the market. Schuur said, “If you’re looking for truly local, seasonal food produced in Central Oregon, come to the Bend Farmers Market.”

Beyond shopping, the market serves as a weekly gathering spot where neighbors connect and families spend time together. It has become one of Bend’s favorite summer traditions for visitors and residents alike.

Megan Kellner-Rode, co-owner of Boundless Farmstead, highlighted the broader benefits of market attendance. Kellner-Rode explained, “Small acts like attending the farmers market each week, eating nourishing food and making community are what our collective souls really need right now.”

For more information, individuals can follow the Bend Farmers Market on social media.

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Matthew Draxton

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission held a virtual meeting on April 22 where it approved several grant recommendations totaling over $11 million and adopted new rules for Unmanned Aircraft Systems, or UAS, operations. The commission also denied a petition seeking to change the extra vehicle fee rule for motorhomes.

The approved rules will clarify where UAS operations are permitted in state parks and along the ocean shore.

The commission’s actions include implementing clearer guidelines for drone usage within state park properties, restricting operations to designated areas. The substantial grant approvals will support various recreational and conservation initiatives across Oregon, drawing from federal programs administered by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, or OPRD.

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department will implement the new UAS rules over the coming months. These rules specify that UAS operations will only be allowed in designated park properties.

In other actions, the commission adopted temporary rules for Public Improvement contracting. This measure will allow ongoing projects to continue through the summer while permanent rules are still under development.

The commission also approved opening rulemaking for changes to the Land and Water Conservation Fund grant program.

Commissioners denied a petition that requested changes to the extra vehicle fee rule for motorhomes. The petition sought to allow motorhomes to bring a non-towed extra vehicle at no charge. The commission found a continued need for the existing rule and determined that circumstances had not sufficiently changed to warrant consideration of a new rule.

Under the Recreation Trails Program, 17 grants were approved, totaling $2,065,768. This is a federal grant program administered by OPRD and the funding represents a portion of fuel tax designated for non-highway recreational use.

The Land and Water Conservation Fund saw the approval of 10 grants, amounting to $8,942,865. This is another federal grant program administered by OPRD, with funding sourced from oil and gas leases in coastal waters.

Additional items addressed by the commission included confirming appointments to its Audit and ATV committees. They also approved legislative concepts to propose for the 2027 legislative session and received informational updates on various real estate matters. These updates covered the potential purchase of properties near Abiqua Falls, a property near Minam and an easement in the Blue Mountains for the Boardman to Hemingway project.

The next Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission meeting is scheduled to be held virtually on June 9 and 10, 2026. The full agenda packet for the upcoming meeting is available online.

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