Medford, OR. — Official Release: At its September 3 meeting, the Medford City Council approved $611,750 in funding to support a range of local programs aimed at strengthening community well-being, enhancing public spaces, and expanding educational and cultural opportunities.
The funding comes from the Council Community Initiative Fund (CCIF), which is supported by local and state marijuana tax revenues. Since 2020, the Council has awarded more than $5.7 million in CCIF grants to support impactful programs and organizations across Medford.
Funded projects include:
Medford Police Department ($5,000)
Funds will replace the vandalized memorial honoring K-9 Oxer, who served as part of Medford’s first canine officer team with handler Tony Young.
Rockafairy ($21,750)
Support will go toward equipment for events, creative workspaces, an art gallery, music scholarships, and community programming.
Rogue Rapids Swim Team ($25,000)
Scholarships will be provided to local youth to improve access to swimming lessons and promote water safety.
Medford Senior Center ($30,000)
Funding will support interior improvements such as removing outdated ceiling materials, repainting, and furnishing classrooms to better serve seniors.
Medford-Alba Sister City Association ($30,000)
The grant will enhance Medford’s sister-city relationship with Alba, Italy, through projects like flag installations in Alba Park and upgrades to the Alba Room at City Hall.
Southern Oregon Humane Society ($50,000)
The contribution will help fund construction of a $11 million facility in north Medford.
Children’s Museum ($100,000)
Scholarships will be provided for families who might not otherwise afford them, making high-quality educational opportunities more accessible.
Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Southern Oregon ($100,000)
Funding will support a financial counseling and homelessness prevention program—the first of its kind in Oregon.
Southern Oregon Alliance of Physician Partners ($100,000)
This investment will aid efforts to recruit qualified healthcare professionals to serve the Medford area.
Downtown Medford Association ($150,000)
Funds will support continued downtown revitalization through community events, business growth, and developing residential properties to create a more vibrant downtown.
In addition, beginning in 2024, the City Council approved allocating $300,000 per year for 20 years in CCIF funds to cover debt service for the new Fire Station 15, currently under construction.
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