Magnolia Point MUD asks Josephine council for joint work session, raises concerns about police transparency

Micah Phelps, identified in the meeting as president of the Magnolia Point MUD Board, told the City of Josephine council Aug. 20 that his board and residents want a joint work session to discuss public safety fees and services and to receive a full cost breakdown.

Phelps said residents have for months requested call-for-service data by district and that the information has not been delivered. He said the MUD contributes an estimated 70% of the city’s public safety budget (statement attributed to Phelps in the transcript) and that, "At this time Magnolia Pointe Club District does not have the confidence of the current police leadership to be looking out for the best interest of the community or our city." He raised concerns that promotions and staffing decisions appeared to be based on relationships rather than merit and said those issues have left residents feeling unsupported.

Phelps told the council his board has obtained quotes from other service providers and said switching is an option, but that the board’s preferred outcome is to continue working with the city under clearer terms. He asked for regular proactive dialogue, contract reviews, and greater transparency around fee changes.

Council members responded that they were unaware of the depth of the MUD’s frustration and apologized for not having known earlier; they asked staff (Lisa, named in the transcript) to coordinate possible meeting dates, with weekends (Saturdays) mentioned as an option. Council and MUD representatives agreed to have staff pick dates and follow up.

The meeting record does not include a response from the police department or a formal city directive beyond agreeing to set up a joint session. The transcript contains inconsistent spellings and references for some participants and for the MUD name in places; this article uses the standard designation "Magnolia Point MUD" for clarity.