Jacksonville Review – April 2024 – Compiled by Whitman Parker

City Council, March 5—City Recorder Angela Watson opened the meeting by swearing in our newest Firefighter, Kellen Kerrigan. Kellen, 21, is a Rogue Valley native, who boasts deep roots in the area alongside his twin brother and older sister. He graduated from Crater High School in Central Point, and during the summers, dedicated himself to the service of his community, working tirelessly with the Oregon Department of Forestry to combat wildland fires. This hands-on experience not only showcased his commitment to public safety but also instilled in him a profound sense of duty towards protecting the natural landscape he calls home. Kellen pursued higher education at Rogue Community College in Fire Science and Emergency Medical Technician studies. Outside of his professional pursuits, Kellen spends time in the great outdoors hiking, camping, snowboarding, fishing, and golfing.

  • Boosters Foundation President LuAnne Bruner and Councilor Andrea Thompson, President of the Boosters Club, presented the club’s 2023 Annual Report.
  • Council President Mike McClain announced the appointment of Glen Cote to the Cemetery Committee.
  • Council waived the annual facilities use fee for Historic Jacksonville, Inc. as requested by HJI President Carolyn Kingsnorth. The council voted to permanently waive the 10% use fee because HJI, which conducts programing at the city-owned Beekman House and Beekman Bank, uses all its proceeds to maintain the properties.
  • The council approved a staff request to apply for a government grant through the Oregon Department of Parks & Recreation for the rehabilitation of the Pheasant Meadows tennis and pickleball courts.