Jefferson County voters had plenty to decide on Tuesday, November 3rd — and the results, while still unofficial, signal significant change heading into 2027. From the Madras mayor's office to the county jail levy, here's where things stand as of the first count.

Townsend Leads for Madras Mayor

Jennifer Townsend holds a commanding lead in the race for Madras mayor, pulling in 1,023 votes (57.41%) compared to challenger Travis Montgomery's 743 votes (41.69%). Travis Montgomery hosted an election night watch party at New Basin Distillery in Madras, but the early numbers did not break his way.

Townsend's campaign emphasized community cohesion and long-term planning for the city. If the results hold, she will take the reins from the outgoing mayor and become Madras's next chief executive.

Jail Levy Renewal Passes

County Measure 16-118 — a five-year operating levy renewal to continue funding Jefferson County Jail operations and maintenance — is passing with 4,792 "Yes" votes (57.19%) to 3,587 "No" votes (42.81%).

The levy, set at $1.69 per $1,000 of assessed value, would replace the current levy approved by voters in 2021, which is set to expire at the end of fiscal year 2026–27. County officials had warned that without renewal, jail operations would face significant budget shortfalls. The passage of the measure — by a healthy margin — signals that most Jefferson County residents consider continued jail funding a priority.

Pollock Wins Sheriff's Race by Wide Margin

In the open race for Jefferson County Sheriff, Jason Pollock is running away with the contest, collecting 5,551 votes (70.77%) over Tyler Anderson's 2,250 votes (28.68%). The double-digit margin reflects strong voter confidence in Pollock as the county moves into a new era of sheriff leadership.

City Council: Murren, Chard, and Timmerman Lead Three-Seat Race

Six candidates competed for three open seats on the Madras City Council. With initial returns in, the top three are:

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

Trailing are GW Curtiss (12.22%), Bill Robathan (12.15%), and Maryfrances Purschwitz (11.49%). If these numbers hold, Murren, Chard, and Timmerman will join the council to represent Madras residents in the coming term.

What Comes Next

All results reported Tuesday evening are unofficial. Jefferson County election officials will continue counting ballots in the days ahead — including late-arriving mail ballots postmarked by Election Day. Final certification of results is expected within the standard Oregon timeline of approximately 30 days after the election.

Residents can follow updated tallies at the Oregon Secretary of State's elections results page at results.oregonvotes.gov or on the Jefferson County website at jeffersoncountyor.gov.