Jefferson County has spoken. With the November 3 general election wrapping up its final ballot count, voters across the county handed clear verdicts in several key races — re-electing the sitting sheriff, renewing a jail operations levy, and choosing a new face for city hall in Madras.

Sheriff Jason Pollock Returns for Another Term

Incumbent Jefferson County Sheriff Jason Pollock secured a commanding re-election win, tallying 5,551 votes — or 70.77% — over challenger Tyler Anderson, a former sheriff's deputy, who received 2,250 votes (28.68%). The wide margin reflected strong countywide support for Pollock's tenure and his record on public safety across the region.

Jail Levy Renewal Passes

Jefferson County voters also approved Measure 16-118, a five-year renewal of the levy funding jail operations and maintenance. The measure passed with 57.19% support — 4,792 "Yes" votes to 3,587 "No" votes. The existing jail levy, originally approved in 2021, was set to expire at the end of fiscal year 2026-27. Its renewal ensures continued funding for the Jefferson County Jail without interruption.

Jennifer Townsend Wins Madras Mayor's Race

In the City of Madras, Jennifer Townsend defeated Travis Montgomery in the race for mayor, earning 57.41% of the vote (1,023 votes) to Montgomery's 41.69% (743 votes). The position carries oversight of city operations and policy direction as Madras navigates growth pressures and infrastructure needs in the coming years.

Three New Madras City Councilors Elected

Three seats on the Madras City Council were decided in a competitive six-way race. The top finishers in preliminary returns were:

  • Tanya Murren — 23.92%
  • Tony Chard — 22.29%
  • Eric Timmerman — 16.93%

GW Curtiss (12.22%), Bill Robathan (12.15%), and Maryfrances Purschwitz (11.50%) rounded out the field. All results remain unofficial until the Jefferson County Clerk's office completes the final canvass.

What Comes Next

Under Oregon law, valid mail-in ballots postmarked on or before Election Day are accepted as they arrive. Jefferson County Clerk Kate Zemke's office will continue signature verification and updating vote totals throughout the week. The official canvass timeline will be posted at jeffersoncountyor.gov.

Newly elected officials are expected to be sworn in and seated in January, beginning work on budgets, public safety priorities, and community projects for the year ahead.