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1. What is the population of Grants Pass?

The population for the City of Grants Pass as is 39,364 . See the Population & Economic Statistics page for more information.

2. Grants Pass is in which county?

Grants Pass is in Josephine County. For more information, go to the Josephine County website.

3. Can I rent the Council Chambers?

The Council Chambers is primarily for use by the City of Grants Pass. 

The rental of the City Council Chamber use is limited to weekend use only. 

Please call Administration Reception at 541-450-6000 for fee, details, and availability.

4. Does the City of Grants Pass provide trash removal service?

No, depending on where you live, this service is provided by either Republic Services or Southern Oregon Sanitation. If you have any questions, please contact the Administration Department.

5. How do I report a street light that needs repair?

If you see a street light that needs repair, please contact Pacific Power Call Center at 888-221-7070, or report the outage online on their website.

6. Who do I call about animal problems?

Too many animals, animal noise issues / animal nuisances in the city, call Public Safety at 541-450-6260.

For dead animal pick-up on City streets (not on private property), contact the Streets and Drainage Department at 541-450-6110, or submit the Public Works online form.

For all other animal-related questions, call Josephine County Animal Control at 541-474-5458.

Josephine County Animal Protection website.

7. Who do I speak to regarding problems with my cable service and/or billing questions?

You will need to contact Charter Spectrum Cable (888-438-2427).

8. Where can I get a marriage license?

 Go to the Josephine County Marriage License page for more information. 

9. Where do I get a Birth Certificate or Death Certificate?

The Josephine County Vital Records department handles birth and death certificates. Go to their website for more information.

10. Where do I call for Bus information?

Call Josephine Community Transit at 541-474-5452 or go to their website.

11. Who is responsible for repairing my sidewalk?

The property owner is responsible for sidewalk repairs. For further information regarding sidewalks please call the City Grants Pass Streets Division at 541-450-6110 or go to the Streets & Drainage Division page.

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1. When are City Council meetings held, and when can I get a copy of the meeting agenda?

City Council Meetings and Workshops are held in the City Council Chambers at 101 NW A Street. 

• Council Meetings are held the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month at 6 p.m.
• Council Workshops are held on Mondays, at 11:45 a.m. 

For more information, go to the City Council page.

Agendas are available at the Administration Office on Friday before each Council meeting and posted online in the Agenda Center.

For more information, contact Administration at 541-450-6000.

2. Is the public allowed to speak at the Council meeting?

Members of the public will be given an opportunity to address the Council during the citizen comment segment of the Council agenda or to speak for or against a specific Council action or public hearing.

3. What is the city’s Mayor and City Council members information?

Go to the City Council page or call Administration Office at 541-450-6000.

4. How many Council members does the City of Grants Pass have? Who are my elected representatives?

The City of Grants Pass has 8 Council members. There are 2 elected Council members for each Ward. Check the City Council page for the names of your specific Council members and their contact information.

5. How long is the term of office for a Council member?

The term of office for Council members is 4 years.

6. When are City Council elections held?

The City Council elections are held in November during the general election.

7. How can I get a copy of a City Resolution or Ordinance?

Please call Administration Office at 541-450-6000 for a copy of the City Resolution or Ordinance. Go to the Ordinance & Resolutions page for more information.

8. How do I apply to be on a City Committee or Commission?

Open applications for City Committees and Commissions are advertised through our local newspaper and posted on the Committees & Commissions page, as well as the homepage. If you are interested in any city volunteer committee or commission, please contact the Administration Office at 541-450-6000.

You can submit your application online with the City Committee / Commission Appointment Application.

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1. What are the income limits for a family living in Grants Pass?

Income limits for the Block Grant Weatherization/Rehabilitation

	1 person	2 persons	3 persons	4 persons	5 persons	6 persons
Low (80%)	$42,600	$48,650	$54,750	$60,800	$65,700	$70,550

2. What is the time period to apply?

Open enrollment is from September 1 to September 29, 2023.

3. How do I qualify?

Step One: Visit the city’s webpage to fill out the application or pick up an application at the Community Development Department, Room 202. Submit the application to the city for weatherization or rehabilitation work to be performed on your home. You must provide proof of ownership and occupancy and be within the income limits listed above. Your property taxes must be current and not in foreclosure. You will need to provide proof of homeowner’s insurance and your home must be structurally sound and able to pass a basic inspection for habitability and safety.

SEE: examples of Weatherization activities vs. Rehabilitation activities

Step Two: All applications will be reviewed and selected applicants will be placed on a waitlist during the enrollment period. Qualified applicants will be processed in the order in which they were received beginning on October 2, 2023. City staff will reach out as applications are being processed to acquire proof of income and other required verifications if needed. The city processes applicants in small batches based on the amount of available funds.

The work to be performed on your home will be using Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) government funds. The city’s CDBG program allocates funds each year for these projects depending on the annual grant award received each year. As such, the amount of funds available each year will vary and may also have a cap. The city works with several partners in the community who will be your contacts.

Step Three: Partner Contact

• One of our partners will contact you to perform an inspection of the dwelling and determine what repairs are necessary.
• After the inspection, our partner will provide a bid for the work to be done which is then reviewed by city staff and the Housing Authority Sub-Committee to determine what work is approved.
• Upon approval of the work to be performed, our partner contacts you to set a date and time to begin the work.
• After completion of the work, our partner checks with you to make sure the work is acceptable and sends an invoice for payment to the city.
• The city reimburses our partner for the costs of repairs and other costs associated with the delivery of the repairs with the city’s CDBG program funds.

4. Do I have to pay any money upfront?

No. All costs are included in the final determined amount of the repairs, administrative costs, and inspection costs. Homes built prior to 1978 have the possibility of lead-based paint which requires additional costs for testing and removal of the paint.

5. Will the repairs cause an increase in the taxes on my home?

You should direct this question to the Josephine County Assessor’s office.

6. How long will the repairs take to complete?

The time varies depending on the type of repairs and how extensive. Generally, the contractor(s) is (are) given at least 60 days to complete the project unless otherwise stated in the contract documents.

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1. Where can I get information on ADUs?

Accessory Dwelling Units, or ADUs, can be added to residential properties that already have a single-dwelling unit home on it. See ADU sample permit fee information and development standards in the Grants Pass Development Code Article 22. 

2. Can I pull a permit online?

You can go to the City Website

• Go to e-permitting
• create an account
• log in
• create permit

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1. What is Affordable Housing?

Housing is considered affordable if a household is paying no more than 30% of its gross income on rent or a mortgage. Thus, what is affordable varies by each family’s income. Some calculations include basic utility costs, though many do not account for transportation and other needs.

2. Where is Affordable Housing located in Grants Pass?

Section 8 vouchers can be used across the city and can be obtained at the Josephine Housing and Community Development Council

3. How many people are houseless in Josephine County?

A regional houseless count is conducted annually, led by UCAN. This is a single point-in-time count, performed every January and counting those who meet a federal homeless definition, “people living in shelters, transitional housing programs, or in a place not meant for human habitation.” The count for 2020 identified over 870 people as meeting that definition on January 23rd, depending on how homelessness is defined that number could be higher. In 2020, Josephine County had the highest count of homeless adults with children and homeless children living alone in any Oregon county.

4. How do I get involved with the City’s Affordable Housing Program?

1. Most affordable housing policies are first considered by the City’s Housing Advisory Committee before being adopted by the City Council. The Committee normally meets each month, on the third Friday at 9:00 a.m. Public comment time is scheduled at each meeting. The committee is comprised of members representing a variety of stakeholders and community members surrounding housing. Committee vacancies are posted on the City’s website.

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1. Why is the City of Grants Pass under federal injunction to allow camping in parks?

On September 28, the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed Johnson v. Grants Pass, a class action matter addressing public camping. The court upheld the U.S. District Court’s prior ruling that persons experiencing homelessness are entitled to take necessary minimal measures to keep themselves warm and dry while sleeping outside. The Ninth Circuit opined that cities violate the Eighth Amendment if they punish a person for the mere act of sleeping outside, or for sleeping in their vehicles at night when there is no other place in the city for them to go.   

As a result of this ruling, this decision expands the application of Martin v. Boise —the pivotal case impacting cities’ ability to regulate public camping. The court noted that the decision, in this case, is narrow and that “it is ‘unconstitutional to [punish] simply sleeping somewhere in public if one has nowhere else to do so.’” It goes on to note that class actions in these types of cases are permissible. This opinion, in most respects, affirmed what was already known from both the previous Martin and Johnson cases. However, it failed to provide much-anticipated clarification on several issues, such as what constitutes “necessary minimal measures” to keep warm and dry. The City has requested an En Banc at the Ninth Circuit Court, another step in the lawsuit process before it may be appealed to the United States Supreme Court. 

2. What is "State Created Danger?"

In 1989, the U.S. Supreme Court, in DeShaney v. Winnebago County. Department of Soc. Servs., interpreted the Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution to impose a duty upon the government to act when the government itself has created dangerous conditions – this interpretation created the legal principle known as State Created Danger. The 9th Circuit has interpreted the State Created Danger doctrine to mean that a governmental entity has a duty to act when the government actor “affirmatively places the plaintiff in danger by acting with ‘deliberate indifference’ to a ‘known or obvious danger.’” 

The State Created Danger principle has three elements. First, the government’s own actions must have created or exposed a person to an actual, particularized danger that the person would not have otherwise faced. Second, the danger must have been one that is known or obvious. Third, the government must act with deliberate indifference to the danger.  

Municipal attorneys are closely reviewing the State Created Danger principle as it relates to the use of public spaces by persons experiencing homelessness. Cities choosing to respond to the homeless crisis by creating managed homeless camps, where unhoused persons can find shelter and services, may open the door to State Created Danger based claims of wrongdoing (e.g., failure to protect from violence, overdoses, etc. within the government sanctioned camp and/or designated areas). 

Sanctioning or designating a camp puts additional liability and welfare responsibilities on the municipality. When a government sanctioned camp/area is created, cities should strive to create an environment that would not reasonably expose a person living in the camp to a known or obvious danger they would not have otherwise faced. And if there is a danger to living in the camp, a city should not act with deliberate indifference to any known danger in allowing persons to live in the camp. 

3. Does the Injunction address illegal activities in parks?

The injunction allows people to rest in a park, however it does not allow people to break the law/do illegal activities such as littering and other infractions. The City does regular patrols of the parks to help encourage proper park usage which includes notices on campsites left up after the resting period which then triggers the 72-hour state notice requirement.  

4. What can one do if they witness activity they suspect is illegal?

Please continue to report any illegal activity to the Police Department. You can report illegal activity if it is an emergency by dialing 911. If it is a non-emergency, please call 541-450-6260. You can also report activity online at: https://www.grantspassoregon.gov/556/Police-Online-Reporting

5. How long may a camper stay after being told to move by law enforcement?

State Law: Requires 72-hour notice before a campsite/vehicle utilized for resting can be removed.

House Bill 3115:  Any city or county law that regulates the acts of sitting, lying, sleeping or keeping warm and dry outside on public property must be “objectively reasonable” based on the totality of the circumstances as applied to all stakeholders, including persons experiencing homelessness. 

House Bill 3124:  

1.  It requires a city to provide notice for campsite removal in public spaces. 
   1. Requires 72-hour notice.

2. It provides regulations for how a city oversees and manages the personal property it removes from an established campsite. 
   1. If the item has value or utility, it must be stored by the city for at least 30 days so that the owner can try and reclaim the items.  

6. What is Martin v. Boise?

Martin vs. Boise is a 2018 decision by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in response to a 2009 lawsuit by six homeless plaintiffs against the city of Boise, Idaho regarding the city’s anti-camping ordinance. The ruling held that cities cannot enforce anti-camping ordinances if they do not have enough homeless shelter beds available for their homeless population. It did not necessarily mean a city cannot enforce any restrictions on camping in public spaces. 

There are four things that municipal attorneys feel confident in saying regarding Martin:

1. Cities cannot criminally punish a person who is experiencing homelessness from sitting, sleeping, or lying on public property when that person has no place else to go.

2. Cities are not required to build or provide shelters for persons experiencing homelessness.

3. Cities can continue to impose reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions – even on people who are homeless, have a place to find shelter, and don’t wish to use that shelter.

4. Limitation to city only – indicates regional cooperative not permitted. For Cities to get credit for services, they must be in the jurisdiction of the municipality.

7. How can the City manage their public spaces in a way that respects all community members?

When it comes to regulating city public spaces, we have three areas of the law we need to consider: federal law, state law, and local law – all three work together – and all three must work together to find solutions to the problems we are addressing. 

8. Are there any Grants Pass City Parks where camping is prohibited?

Reinhart Volunteer Park is not covered by the federal injunction, and camping there is prohibited.

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1. Are fireworks legal in Grants Pass?

The Grants Pass Department of Public Safety wants everyone to have a fun and safe Fourth of July. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display conducted by trained professionals.

All Fireworks Are Banned Within the Grants Pass City Limits

Exception

Fireworks are permitted on the 4th of July only between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m.

Fireworks are Always Banned Within the Wildfire Hazard Zones

See below for maps and descriptions.

• North Grants Pass Hazard Zones
• South Grants Pass Hazard Zones

For more information, go to the Fireworks in Grants Pass page.

2. How can I be prepared before lighting fireworks?

• Use only fireworks legal in Oregon, purchased from licensed outlets.
• Store fireworks out of the reach of children.
• Make sure fireworks are allowed in your neighborhood.
• Always read and follow label directions.
• Place pets indoors. They are easily frightened by fireworks.
• Always have water handy,  a garden hose or bucket of water.
• Light fireworks outdoors on a flat, clear area away from houses, dry leaves or grass and combustible materials.

3. How can I be safe when lighting fireworks?

• An adult should always light fireworks.
• Keep matches and lighters away from children.
• Use fireworks outdoors only.
• Light one firework at a time.
• Keep children and pets away from fireworks.
• Do not throw fireworks or hold in your hand.
• Do not allow young children to play with fireworks under any circumstances.
  • Sparklers, considered by many the ideal "safe" firework for the young, burn at 1800 to 3000 degrees Fahrenheit and can easily ignite clothing. Children do not understand the danger involved and cannot act appropriately in case of emergency.
• Older children should only be permitted to use fireworks under close adult supervision. Do not allow any running or horseplay.
• Do not try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Place duds in a bucket of water and throw them away.
• Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
• Never ignite fireworks inside a container such as a bottle or can.
• Keep unused fireworks away from the area where you are lighting them.
• Never have any portion of your body over a firework when lighting.

4. How can I be responsible after lighting fireworks?

• Soak used fireworks thoroughly in a bucket of water.
• Dispose of used fireworks and debris properly.
• Never re-light  "dud" fireworks. Wait 15 to 20 minutes, then soak it in a bucket of water.

5. What types of fireworks are the most dangerous?

Over 75% of fireworks injuries are from consumer fireworks legal in many states like firecrackers, bottle rockets, roman candles, fountains, and sparklers. Fireworks injuries are most commonly associated with:

• firecrackers (51%) - illegal in Oregon
• bottle rockets (12%) - illegal in Oregon
• sparklers (7%)

6. Who gets hurt by fireworks, and what kinds of injuries are common?

Who commonly gets hurt by fireworks?

• Children ages 5 to 9  and teens ages 15 to 19.
• More than 40% of those injured are children younger than 14.
• The most frequent and serious injuries are to active participants in fireworks-related activities, not bystanders and audiences.

What kinds of injuries are typical?

• Hands and fingers (29%)
• Eyes (20%)
• Around half the injuries are burns, especially to the face, hand, wrist, or arm.

7. Where are fireworks illegal at all times?

1. The area west of Highland Avenue and Dimmick Street, north of the railroad tracks.
2. The area north of Interstate 5
3. Panoramic Loop area
4. Overland Drive area
5. Haviland Drive area between Cloverlawn and Linden
6. All City parks
7. All Public School Properties
8. Any area posted: "No Fireworks Allowed"

See these maps for more detailed information:

North Grants Pass Hazard Zones

South Grants Pass Hazard Zones

8. What are the penalties for illegal fireworks use?

• Under Oregon law, officials may seize illegal fireworks and fine offenses from a base fine of $75.00 up to $500.00 per violation.
• Grants Pass Police and Fire Prevention personnel can issue citations for the use of prohibited fireworks within the city limits of Grants Pass.
• Offenders can also be held Civilly Liable for any damage caused by a firework and costs associated with a Fire Department response.
• Parents are liable for fireworks-caused damage by their children.

These sections of Title 9 of the Municipal Code apply:

• 9.12.270 - Prohibition of Fireworks
• 9.13.500 - Liability for Fire Response

9. What types of fireworks are legal on the 4th of July?

Any firework that does not explode, fly into the air, travel more than 6 feet horizontally, and/or 12" vertically from the point of ignition.

Such as:

• Cone Fountain
• Wheel
• Base Fountain
• Sparkler
• Hand Held Fountain
• Ground Blooms

Unclassified items, which are not classified as fireworks such as:

• Smoke Bomb
• Snakes
• Party Popper

10. What types of fireworks are always illegal?

Any firework that explodes or flies through the air, travels more than six horizontal feet or 12" vertically on smooth ground, or behaves in an uncontrolled manner.

Such as:

• Bottle Rockets
• Sky Lanterns
• Mortars
• Firecrackers
• Roman Candles
• M-80s, M-100s, etc.

11. What about annexed areas?

Many properties have been annexed into the Grants Pass city limits over the years. It is the property owner's responsibility to know if they are located in city limits and abide by the Grants Pass city ordinances. Please refer to the maps below.

North Grants Pass Hazard Zones

South Grants Pass Hazard Zones

12. How do I keep my pets safe?

NEVER

• take your pet to a firework display.
• leave your pet in the car.
• leave your pet unattended outdoors, even in a fenced yard.

DO

• Move your pets indoors to a sheltered area. Turn on a radio to a normal volume.
• Make sure your pet is wearing an identification tag.
• Consult your veterinarian if you know your pet is distressed by loud noises.

13. Do you have any other questions?

Call the Fire Prevention Office at 541-450-6200.

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1. What is FOG and what causes it?

FOG is an acronym for Fats, Oil and Grease. 

It is caused by unwanted cooking oils, grease and food being poured down the kitchen drain. 

As the oils and grease cool in the collection system pipes it congeals, hardens and mixes with other solids creating blockages. 

This can cause unnecessary, expensive and messy backups in homes and businesses.

2. Are there other items that I shouldn't flush?

Baby wipes that don’t biodegrade quickly enough cause problems in pumps and solids grinders at the wastewater treatment plant. The toilet is not a trash can, don’t flush: 

• paper towels, 
• diapers, 
• woven baby wipes, 
• feminine hygiene products, 
• hair, 
• kitty litter, 
• cotton balls and swabs.

3. What can I do to prevent FOG?

When cooking, allow unwanted oils and greases to cool and harden, wipe the pan with a paper towel and discard in the garbage can. 

Only flush toilet paper and excrement. We can safely treat these wastes.

4. Other than residences, what else creates FOG?

Brewery pubs, churches, commissaries, grocery stores, mobile food units, hotels/motels, nursing homes, department store eateries, cinemas, cafés, coffee shops, smoothies and juice shops, ice cream shops, fairground eateries, rented commercial kitchens, and restaurants (all types), etc.

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1. Does the City of Grants Pass add fluoride to the water?

No, we do not add fluoride to the water. However, there are low levels of naturally occurring fluoride in the drinking water. The level is neither beneficial for cavity fighting nor does it present a health hazard.

2. Why do the taste and odor of my water sometimes differ?

Water naturally varies in taste and odor at different times of the year. Taste and odor problems in your drinking water can come from new or old pipelines, plumbing fixtures, or changes in raw water quality.

3. Is Grants Pass city water soft or hard?

Grants Pass city water is soft to moderately soft. It ranges from 1.90 to 3.4 grains of hardness per gallon (less than 59 parts per million CaCO3).

4. What is the pH of the City’s water?

Grants Pass city water after treatment averages 7.2 pH units.

5. How long is the water distribution system in Grants Pass?

The distribution system is made up of five different elevation zones and more than 188 miles of distribution lines varying in size from 2 to 36 inches in diameter.

6. How much water does the average customer use each day?

Residential customers of Grants Pass use an average of approximately 350 gallons per day. It’s important to note that Grants Pass tracks its customers, not individual water users; a customer account for a residence likely has several people living there, especially if it’s one of the 1,000-plus multi-family housing units in the city.

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1. What is an Ordinance?

An ordinance is a law, rule or regulation passed by the City Council. If you have any questions, please contact Administration.

2. What is a Resolution?

A resolution is a formal statement of policy, expression of opinion or intention voted on by the City Council. If you have any questions, please contact Administration.

3. How do I get a copy of an Ordinance or Resolution?

The complete set of ordinances and resolutions are not available online. View the ordinance index (PDF) and resolution index (PDF) online to see the complete list of ordinances and resolutions available at City Hall.

You may request a print or electronic copy, or review the document(s) in person at the City Administration Office. If have any questions, please contact Administration.

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1. How many parks are in the City?

There are 28 parks in the City.

2. Are City parks free to use?

Yes! All City parks are free to the public.

3. How do I make a reservation for a park shelter?

All park shelters are free to use on a first come, first service basis; however, if you would like to make a reservation, please visit our Grants Pass Parks & Recreation Reservation Website. 

4. Can I park my vehicle overnight in a City park?

Per Municiple Code 6.46.090.B, it is unlawful to park vehicles overnight in a City park.

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1. What kind of police reports can I file online?

You can file an online police report for the following: 

• Failure to leave name at the scene 
• Lost property
• Theft
• Unauthorized entry into a motor vehicle

File a report

2. Can I register my surveillance cameras to help the Grants Pass Police Department?

Yes, you can register your home or business surveillance camera to potentially help the Grants Pass Police quickly identify camera locations and help stop/solve criminal activity. Registration is voluntary. The information is for official use only.

Register your camera

3. Can I appeal a parking citation online?

Yes, you can appeal your parking citation online with all the pertinent information from the ticket.

Appeal a parking citation

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1. Who needs to be prequalified with the City of Grants Pass?

• Per Chapter 9.37 of the City of Grants Pass Municipal Code, all contractors must be prequalified to work on projects involving the construction of public facilities. Public facilities typically include, but are not limited to, any structures in the right of way, sidewalks, streets and utilities.
• To bid on Capital Projects for the City of Grants Pass, bidders must be prequalified in conformance with Oregon Revised Statue 279C.430 or the Grants Pass Municipal Code.
• Please note that if you are working in the City of Grants Pass, you will need to obtain your Grants Pass Business License through the City Finance Department

2. What do I need to submit to become prequalified?

• Submit a City of Grants Pass Prequalification Application. You may download the application, or pick one up in person at the Community Development Office at 101 NW “A” Street, Room 202, Grants Pass. The application needs to be completed and notarized.
• If you are currently prequalified with ODOT, you may submit a copy of your ODOT application including the signed signature and notary page. Please include two years of work experience relating to the prequalification classes of work you are qualified to perform and a copy of your approval letter. Attach a completed City of Grants Pass Prequalification Application Cover. 
• Submit a current liability certificate listing the City of Grants Pass as a certificate holder. The City requires minimum insurance limits of one million per claim with a two million aggregate per Resolution No. 5682.

3. Where do I turn in my application?

Turn your application in at the Community Development Office or email it to prequal@grantspassoregon.gov. It will be date stamped and turned in for review. Please fill out all contact information so that in the event we need to contact you with questions, we will be able to reach you.

4. Is there a cost to submit my application?

No. There is no cost to process your application.

5. Will you accept my ODOT Prequalification Application?

Yes. If you are currently prequalified with ODOT, you may submit a copy of your ODOT application including the signed signature and notary page. Please include a copy of your approval letter, liability insurance certificate, and two years of work experience relating to prequalfication classes of work you are qualified to perform. Attach a completed City of Grants Pass Prequalification Application Cover. 

6. How long does it take for my application to be processed?

Under normal circumstances, applications are reviewed and processed within seven days.

7. How will I be notified of my prequalification status?

You will receive a letter notifying you of your prequalification status. In this letter you will be informed of your expiration date. Prior to the expiration, the City of Grants Pass will send out a renewal notice as a courtesy.

8. What if I have more questions?

Check out the Useful Links section on the Prequalification Requirements page.

9. Who do I contact if I have questions?

• Contact Community Development if you need an application at 541-450-6060
• Contact the Engineering Division at 541-450-6110 or prequal@grantspassoregon.gov  for questions directly affecting your prequalification application or status.
• If you need to fax your information or liability certificates, please fax to 541-476-9218, Attention: Contractor Prequalifications.

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1. What is the Wildland Urban Interface Zone (WUI) and where is it?

Simply, the Wildland Urban Interface Zone is where homes and wildlands mix. Wildlands can be forests, brush, or grass. Homes can be a cabin in the woods or residential neighborhoods. Homes located in the WUI have a greater risk of being affected by a wildfire. Check to see if your property is located in an At-Risk Area.

2. What is the Home Ignition Zone?

Physical fire science research has shown that homes burn during wildfires due to the condition of the home and its surroundings within 100 to 200 feet. This "home ignition zone" can be modified by the resident to be ignition resistant. In most cases, when adequately prepared, a house can withstand a wildland fire without the intervention of the fire service.

3. What role do homeowners play?

The homeowner’s responsibility is to create and maintain their home ignition zone. View the Protecting Your Home page to see a list of items that can be done now to protect your home during a wildfire event. Most can be done at little or no expense. Print out the list and check off the items that your home already complies with, and then set a plan to complete the remaining items. You can also receive a free no obligation review of your home by contacting Firewise Coordinator Tyson Schultz, TSchultz@grantspassoregon.gov, 541-450-6212

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1. Are Service and Annexation Agreements required for all development outside the city and inside the Urban Growth Boundary?

Yes, with the exception of developments that meet the definitions of the Intergovernmental Agreement for minor developments that are not connecting to municipal facilities. The agreement generally describes single-family or duplex development on a lot of records that existed prior to August 14, 1998, or expansions up to 25% for commercial, institutional, or industrial developments that do not make new connections to any municipal facility.

2. Will the Service and Annexation Agreement be effective immediately upon signature and filing?

Yes, the Urban Growth Management Agreement provides the authority for the city to exercise jurisdiction over development. Service and Annexation Agreements (PDF) must be signed and filed prior to final planning authorization for any process that creates new land parcels that may be conveyed between parties or upon connection to city water or sewer services. The city will assure the initiation of Public Safety service within 7 days of recording of all agreements.

3. How is the assessed value determined, and what is the tax rate?

The assessed value of newly created parcels will be determined at the final plat for the subdivision, the recording of a lot line adjustment, or the recording of a partition plat. For existing land, the assessed value shall be as established by the County Assessor.

The tax rate is the equivalent rate per thousand of assessed value that would be charged for property taxes if the land were in the city. The rate will vary from time to time and shall be as established by the budgetary process and voters’ approval. Please be aware that 100% of all property taxes in the city pay for Public Safety services. In addition to 100% of property taxes, the city provides Public Safety with additional resources from the general fund.

4. How will property be billed?

The city will bill the property owner monthly for a pro-rata share of the annual fee. All billing will be based on the approved assessed value times the tax rate for the city. All future values certified by the County Assessor, along with tax rates established, will be the basis for the billable amount, pro-rated to monthly equivalents.

5. Will police really patrol and respond to issues miles from the current city limits?

Yes, the city utilizes a computer-aided dispatch system. We enter the location into the system, and which agency to respond to incidents at a location. Upon receipt of a recorded Service and Annexation Agreement, the Grants Pass Public Safety Department will change the responder on the property to the City for both police and fire, and from that point, the city will be responding.

The city would be delighted to assist in forming neighborhood watch groups, working with areas for fire protection, and taking similar actions to promote the public safety of areas under our protection. The city will eventually be responsible for Public Safety Services to all of the urban growth boundary, and we are willing and able to provide service to individual properties under Service and Annexation Agreements.

6. My land was served by a community water system approved by the county, and the city is now connecting my area water system to the city system. Do I have to enter into an agreement?

Maybe. When and if you further develop your land, or subdivide, you will be required to enter into an agreement. The act of the city connecting to a water distribution system designed for such a connection will not require Service and Annexation Agreements. Properties may wish to enter into an agreement to achieve 2 separate things:

1. The city surcharge for water is 1.6 times the rate for utilities delivered in the city
2. The city will provide both police and fire services to the property

7. If I sign a Service and Annexation Agreement, when can I expect my property to be annexed?

The first time your property will be considered for annexation is within 1 year from the signing of the Service and Annexation Agreement (PDF). The City Council will consider such annexations and may act to approve or disapprove. If approved by the City Council, the annexation is forwarded to Grants Pass voters for approval. If disapproved by the voters or by the City Council, your property will be placed on the listing for consideration of annexation annually.

8. If I do not sign a Service and Annexation Agreement, can my property still be annexed?

Yes, the city uses Oregon law to determine what land is potentially subject to annexation. Your land may become part of a larger area that may be annexed under a triple majority annexation, where lands representing the majority of the area, the majority of the value, and a majority of the population can be annexed to the city with the consent of the City Council and approval by the city voters. You may also be annexed if your land is part of a larger group of lands that are surrounded on all sides by land that is annexed to the city. This island annexation would be subject to a City Council vote, and a vote of city residents.

9. Do I have a vote on annexation?

No, once you sign a Service and Annexation Agreement (PDF), your land is bound to annex to the city, and you are precluded from acting to stop that annexation. Once your land is annexed, you will be able to vote on the annexation of all future lands.

10. If I sign a Service and Annexation Agreement and the city provides fire and police service, will I still have to have an agreement with a private fire department to protect my property?

No, 7 days following the recording of the agreement, the city will begin providing your fire service. You may cancel your subscription with any fire company. You will also want to check with your insurance agent. The city has a better rating from the Insurance Services Office (ISO) than the private departments due to our equipment, manpower, and water system. Your insurance rates may be lower depending on your insurance company’s policy.

11. What other costs may I incur by signing this agreement?

When your property begins to receive water or sewer service, all utility charges will be charged to your property in the same manner as any property in the city, including water, sewer, and transportation fees.

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1. When do I need a permit to prune or remove a tree?

If your tree is in the public right-of-way, you ned a permit to prune or remove.

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1. How does Urban Renewal work?

Urban renewal is funded by Tax Increment Financing. It works like this:

When an urban renewal area is created, the County Assessor establishes the current assessed value of all property within the area. The Assessor “freezes” that tax base.

For the duration of the urban renewal area, the taxing districts receive revenue from that frozen base.

When the value of the properties increases, the income above the base (the “increment”) goes to the Urban Renewal Agency. This money is then spent on projects in the urban renewal area.

When the urban renewal area ends, the taxing districts receive the taxes on the full assessed value of the area.

2. Who is affected by Urban Renewal?

Local taxing districts that accept a frozen tax base during the life of the urban renewal. They do this to encourage development. The development will increase property values, and increase future tax income for the districts.

The taxing districts directly impacted are the City of Grants Pass, Josephine County, and the 4H Extension. These districts accept income from a frozen tax base for the life of the urban renewal but do not receive taxes from increases in the assessed value. 

Schools within the urban renewal area are not directly impacted. They are funded through the State School Fund. Property tax revenues are an offset under the statewide school funding formula. Property tax revenues foregone by school districts in the urban renewal area may be replaced with other State School Fund revenues.

3. Is Urban Renewal a new tax?

No. This is not a new property tax. Tax bills for property within the urban renewal area do not increase because of urban renewal. 

Urban renewal changes how the tax revenue is distributed. Property taxes will not increase due to urban renewal within the area.

The money to pay for projects is generated by the new development and property appreciation in the urban renewal area.

4. Does Urban Renewal show up on my tax bill?

Yes. If you own property in Grants Pass, urban renewal will be listed as a line item on your tax bill

This line item lists the amount of income the Urban Renewal district receives from the property within your tax district.

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1. Why does the City of Grants Pass need a Water Emergency Response Trailer?

The City of Grants Pass Public Works Department has initiated the use of a Water Emergency Response Trailer (WERT). The trailer is a safety net for any water emergency that the City may have by filtering and treating water just as the City Water Plant does but on a smaller scale.

We want to supply clean fresh water to citizens in any type of emergency.

The WERT will be a short-term answer if and when the Water Treatment Plant should have a catastrophic failure.

The City of Grants Pass makes a commitment to the citizens to supply safe drinking water at all times including during an emergency. The trailer is completely self-contained and as long as there is a water source (such as, the Rogue River) it will be able to clean and disinfect water for an extended period of time and capable of supplying high quality drinking water for citizens up to 1 gallon/day/person.

The trailer is capable of producing up to 45,000 gallons of water per day. During a major catastrophe, it can take several days for outside resources to reach citizens and deliver water. To have complete water services restored after a major catastrophe it may take up to a year for some services in our area.

Another good reason for having the WERT is if the City should sustain a major waterline break and the repair would be an extended amount of time, WERT would be activated and available for the citizens.

2. How soon can the Water Emergency Response Trailer be deployed in case of emergency?

When deemed necessary, the trailer is designed to be deployed within hours of a water outage. 

Once the integrity of the water system is secure, Grants Pass City may deploy its water incident response trailer to help meet customers' minimum water needs during an extended outage. 

Deployment is at the sole discretion of Public Works Director and the City Manager and/or the incident commander in consultation with other City staff and the State of Oregon Drinking Water Program.

State of Oregon Drinking Water Program

3. How does the Water Emergency Response Trailer work?

The WERT works just like a full scaled filtration plant and applies many of the same principles as the City’s existing treatment plant. The trailer carries multiple diesel pumps and generators so it can remain fully self-sufficient in an extended emergency. When needed water will be pumped from a source, such as the Rogue River, and passed through a 4 stage filter system which will filter from coarse through smaller than 0.35 microns. Chlorine will then be added to the water prior to placing it into fold-able water storage containers where it will sit for 1 hour or more to disinfect. The water can then be pumped through a self contained distribution piping system to customer’s containers.

4. Can the Water Emergency Response Trailer filter and disinfect water?

Yes! The City of Grants Pass’ trailer is a fully contained water treatment trailer which utilizes a multiply barrier approach in addition to disinfection to ensure any water that is produced is particle and microbe free. The trailer uses a three stage filtration system in addition to coarse pre-screening to provide a positive barrier removing 99.99% of contaminants.

5. How do I disinfect my water container?

To disinfect your water storage container follow these four steps:

1. Bleach – Mix 1/4 teaspoon of unscented liquid chlorine bleach with one cup water.
   


2. Cover – Cover the container and shake well so the bleach mixture touches all inside surfaces of the container.


3. Wait – Wait at least 30 seconds and then pour the mixture out of the container.
   


4. Air dry – Let the empty disinfected container air dry. Re-cover and keep for future use.

*Never use a container to store drinking water if it previously stored milk, fruit juice or any toxic solid or liquid chemicals.

6. Is the water from the Water Emergency Response Trailer safe to drink?

Yes, but it is recommended to boil the water prior to drinking. In an emergency it is not always feasible to perform extensive lab testing as is required at Water Treatment Plant.  Boiling instructions are as follows:

• Bring the clear water to a rolling boil for one minute
• Let the boiled water cool.
• Store the boiled water in clean sanitized containers with tight covers.

7. Does the Water Emergency Response Trailer store water?

No. The trailer is designed to withdraw water from to the closest reliable water supply, such as the river, a pond, a hydrant or a finished water storage reservoir.

8. Do I need to bring my own water container to fill from the Water Emergency Response Trailer?

Yes. Bring your own disinfected water storage container when visiting the City of Grants Pass water distribution site. Follow these four steps to disinfect your storage container:

1. Bleach – Mix 1/4 teaspoon of unscented liquid chlorine bleach with one cup water.
2. Cover – Cover the container and shake well so the bleach mixture touches all inside surfaces of the container.
3. Wait – Wait at least 30 seconds and then pour the mixture out of the container.
4. Air dry – Let the empty disinfected container air dry. Re-cover and keep for future use.

*Never use a container to store drinking water if it previously stored milk, fruit juice or any toxic solid or liquid chemicals.

Print these instructions.

9. Where will emergency water distribution sites be located?

Emergency water distribution sites will depend on the reason for the service disruption. 

If the disruption is due to a natural disaster, the site will be in a location that can reach as many Grants Pass citizens as possible.

 If the disruption is due to a water main break, the site will be located near the break to serve affected customers.

 In the event of the need for emergency water distribution, the City of Grants Pass will notify the media of the location of the distribution site(s). The City of Grants Pass will also publish the location on its website and Facebook pages.

City of Grants Pass Facebook page

10. Will there be a maximum household water allotment?

Yes. To serve the most customers possible, a household water allotment must be established. Depending on the situation, one to five gallons of water may be the household maximum available per day. 

The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends a volume of 1 gallon of water per person per day is sufficient to supply in an emergency.

11. Is there a maximum household water allotment?

Yes, 1-5 gallons per day. The allotment is established, depending on the situation, to serve the most customers possible. FEMA recommends 1 gallon of water per person per day.

12. How long can I store water in a disinfected container?

Drinkable water is safe for up to five days if it has been stored in a covered, disinfected container.

13. How will fresh water get to me if there are no bridges?

Currently the City only has one water emergency response trailer. We hope to get a second trailer in the future in order to supply emergency water to both sides of the river. 

However, the City does have stored water at Reservoir sites that will be available for use in an emergency. These reservoirs will serve as distribution points for clean water in the event that the water emergency response trailer is on the other side of the river.

14. Is the Water Emergency Response Trailer the only way to get clean water in an emergency?

No. The City has several Reservoir sites where if not damaged we would be able to access water.

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1. How do I test for leaks?

1. Make sure all of your water is turned off.
2. Check the meter for movement - if the red triangle on the left hand side is moving freely, this is an indication that you have a leak. If your meter doesn't have a triangle you will have to perform a water audit:
   Take a reading of your water meter. Note the sweep hand and the last couple of numbers on the right hand side. One sweep = 7.5 gallons. Wait an hour, making sure no one uses any water. Check it again, if the reading has changed, you have at least one leak.
3. Investigate! Look for wet spots, dripping faucets, running toilets, etc.

2. How do I know how much water has been lost because of a leak?

Take a read off your meter and contact Customer Services and Utility Billing and they will work with you on figuring out how much you may have lost.

Call them at 541-450-6035, or send an email to Customer Services and Utility Billing.

3. Will the Public Works Department repair my leak?

The property owner is responsible for repair and maintenance of their water lines beyond the water meter. The utility is responsible for water lines up to the meter. Unless the leak is at the connection on the meter, the owner will have to repair or hire a licensed plumber to do so.

4. Will the Public Works Department locate my underground leak?

The location of leaks located behind the water meter is also the responsibility of the property owner.

5. Will Public Works compensate me for my water lost because of a leak?

A leak on a customer's property is their responsibility. However, we advise you to contact our Utility Billing office so that we can document your leak, and advise you on how to submit a request for a leak adjustment, if you feel this leak is the cause for putting you into a higher monthly service charge.

See the Adjustments to Service page on our site for more details.

6. How do I report a leak and is it important I do so?

If you notice a leak in the street, water coming out of a meter box or any other water related problems, please contact Customer Service and Utility Billing so we can get someone out there as quickly as possible. The utility division appreciates you reporting leaks so they can be repaired as quickly as possible and to prevent unnecessary loss of water.

After Hours/Weekend/Holidays

541-450-6260

7. What do I do if I need to report a leak and the Utility Billing office is closed?

If you discover a leak after 5 p.m. or during a weekend or a holiday, please call our Public Safety Department at 541-450-6260. Public Safety will contact a Utility representative to respond and access the situation.

8. Will a leak in the street be charged to my meter?

No, the meter will only monitor usage for water going to the home through the meter.

9. In what amount of time will Public Works respond to a leak?

As soon as possible, a Public Works employee will respond and determine if the emerging water is related to a leak on the municipal system. Unexplained water surfacing at any location may not always be related to a leak on the public water system. Sometimes such water is caused by problems related to other utilities such as storm drainage or Irrigation District water.

If a leak is determined to be coming from the municipal system, the responding employee will mark an area surrounding the leak with white paint and inform other utilities of the need for an emergency repair. The other utilities will respond by sending representatives to mark out the locations of their facilities within the painted area.

After these utilities have responded on site, repair work on the leak can then proceed as quickly as possible. The timing in which each particular leak is repaired may vary slightly depending upon its size, location, impact on customer service and other factors. Most water leaks are repaired on same day as reported.

10. How do I keep my pipes from freezing in the winter?

Insulate. Loosely wrap your pipes and faucets with insulation, or cover with plastic bag and/or coffee can. Hardware stores have pipe wrap and covers for faucets and fittings.

Note: Do not wrap the relief port on RP backflow assemblies. This needs to remain open for water to drain. Call 541-450-6115 with any questions. 

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1. How do I order a water service?

Requests for new meter installations must be submitted through the Community Development office.

2. How do remove a meter from my property?

Meters can only be removed by a Public Works employee.

3. What is meter tampering?

Meter tampering is any action to the meter and/or the utility shut-off valve located in front of the meter without authorization. 

This includes; operating a tagged or locked meter shut-off valve, removing a meter, hooking up to a meter illegally, or any other action performed to change a meter's reading, or functionality.

All cases of meter tampering are subject to a $100 meter tampering penalty and possibly more for any damage.

4. Is my meter reading ever estimated?

Meters readings are only estimated when it is impossible for the meter to be read. 

Examples are: nonfunctioning (dead, broken, or fogged) meters not yet replaced by the utility division, meters lost or covered due to construction or other activities, and meters located under parked vehicles or locked gates inhibiting access.

5. Where is my meter located?

Most meters are located within the sidewalk or landscape strip fronting your property. They are placed in the ground in a concrete box. If you cannot locate your meter, call the water distribution office and a Public Works service representative, can assist you in finding it.

6. What do I do if my meter has been tampered with or broken?

If you suspect your meter has been tampered with or broken, please contact Utility Billing as soon as possible so that utility representative can be dispatched to assess any damages and conduct repairs if needed.