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Josephine County moves forward with media‑attendance policy for executive sessions

Board of County Commissioners · April 1, 2026

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Summary

County Legal Counsel presented a revised Administrative Policy H‑03 to identify accredited news media representatives for executive-session attendance; the Board voted unanimously to advance the policy for formal action.

Josephine County Legal Counsel Wally Hicks presented a revised Administrative Policy H‑03 on March 24 intended to clarify how the county identifies accredited news media representatives for the limited purpose of executive‑session attendance. Hicks said the policy is not legally required but is intended to provide consistent procedures that comply with Oregon public‑meetings law while balancing access and the integrity of executive sessions.

Commissioners discussed how the evolving media landscape — including digital publishers and individual content creators — complicates identification of credentialed reporters and noted the need for consistent outreach. After discussion, the Board voted unanimously to move Order No. 2026‑010 forward for adoption (motion by Commissioner Gary Richardson, seconded by Commissioner Colene Martin; roll call 3‑0).

Next steps: the policy will proceed to a Weekly Business Session for formal adoption and public notice; commissioners asked staff to consider additional outreach to local media prior to final adoption.