Josephine County officials have approved a lease amendment for the Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD) during a recent administration workshop, ensuring continued operations at their facility on Seventh and Endemic Street. The amendment, which has been in place since February 2011 and is updated approximately every two years, will see the department lease 1,300 square feet for $1,700 per month, equating to about $1.30 per square foot. This decision is expected to maintain stable rental costs for the state agency while allowing for necessary adjustments should the county decide to sell the property before the lease expires in December 2027.

In addition to the OWRD lease, the meeting also addressed a new lease agreement for the library located at 200 Northwest C Street. This agreement, set to commence on January 1, 2026, and run through December 31, 2030, includes a total rent obligation of $27,687. This figure reflects the estimated costs associated with replacing the library's roof, which is currently underway. The library has accumulated a maintenance fund of $20,424, which will be applied as an advance payment toward the rent, resulting in an annual rental obligation of approximately $1,453.

The discussions highlighted the county's commitment to ensuring that community services, such as those provided by the library, continue to operate effectively while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Both lease agreements underscore the county's proactive approach to managing public resources and supporting essential services for residents. As these agreements move forward, they are expected to enhance the stability and functionality of local government operations in Josephine County.