Jackson County needs more jail space, that is not generally in dispute. But the size and cost of a new jail are very much under discussion.
The Sheriff's Office recommends a building with more than double the capacity of the current jail, and the formation of a special taxing district to fund and run it.
Public hearings on a May election ballot measure to create that district begin this week (Wed. Feb. 5 at 9:30 in Medford). Sheriff Nathan Sickler visits to add details to the plan. Talent Mayor Darby Ayers-Flood joins the conversation, to talk about why the Talent City Council opted not to participate in the district formation.