Southern Oregon & Northern California News
Latest local news from Southern Oregon and Northern California, covering Medford, Ashland, Grants Pass, Klamath Falls, Jackson County, Josephine County, Klamath County, Siskiyou County, Del Norte County, and communities throughout the region.
Emeralds Say No Thanks to Medford, Plan to Stay in Eugene
The Eugene Emeralds and City of Medford have ended discussions over a proposed Minor League Baseball stadium at Hawthorne Park. The decision follows months of debate over downtown redevelopment, public investment, and an alternative site at Harry & David Field.
KCC Study Shows Major Economic Impact Across Klamath Basin
A new economic analysis finds Klamath Community College supports more than 1,200 jobs and contributes tens of millions of dollars to the regional economy through college operations, student spending, and alumni who remain in the Klamath Basin workforce. KCC Economic Impact for 2026
Leadership Klamath Opens Enrollment
Applications are now open for the 2026–2027 Leadership Klamath program through the Klamath County Chamber of Commerce. The long-running program connects emerging and established leaders with monthly sessions focused on government, education, economic development, healthcare, natural resources, public safety and community engagement.
New KCC Trustee Wants Local Kids to Stay
Rejeana Jackson, newly appointed to the Klamath Community College Board of Education for Zone 5, says she wants to help strengthen career pathways so local students can build their futures in Klamath Falls instead of leaving for work elsewhere.
Applications Open for 2026–27 Economic Development Grants
The City of Klamath Falls is now accepting applications for multiple grant programs aimed at supporting economic development, small businesses, and community initiatives during the 2026–27 fiscal year.
OIT Accepts $500k Donation for Workforce Development
Oregon Tech has received a $500,000 gift from the Beavers Charitable Trust to support workforce development within the university’s new Construction Management program. The funding will provide scholarships and expand the program’s Heavy Construction Management option.
SOU’s Small Business Development Center to Close After 41 Years
Southern Oregon University’s Small Business Development Center in Medford will close after 41 years of service, following a state decision to reject a joint proposal with Rogue Community College to maintain funding. The closure ends decades of support for local entrepreneurs and marks the last university-run SBDC in Oregon.
400,000 Panel Solar Project Approved
The Klamath County Planning Commission has approved permits for the 1,560-acre Diamond Solar Project, a massive renewable energy development expected to power 40,000 homes, generate millions in local tax revenue, and mark the first large-scale solar-plus-storage project in the Pacific Northwest.