Josephine County authorizes temporary access across county land for Devil’s Slide emergency response

Josephine County commissioners on June 16 directed staff to grant temporary access across county-owned property near Devil’s Slide to improve emergency-response access for Rural Metro Fire and the Oregon Department of Forestry, with the requesting agencies responsible for construction and maintenance and no anticipated financial impact to the county.

Public Works Manager Richard Pike and Property Manager Helene Lulich said responders have experienced difficulties accessing the area during fire-suppression and emergency incidents; they described a proposed gravel access route designed for fire apparatus. Commissioners discussed long-term access rights, maintenance responsibilities and liability. Commissioner Gary L. Richardson said he was concerned about long-term access and recommended a formal agreement rather than informal email authorization. Legal Counsel advised that a written access agreement would provide protections without creating a permanent easement. The board directed staff to proceed with temporary authorization while preparing a more formal agreement for future consideration.

Staff will work with the requesting agencies to finalize temporary access and bring a proposed written agreement to the board for later approval.