Council Corner: Oregon is a childcare desert. For every three children needing early learning or childcare, there is only one slot available. According to the Southern Oregon Education Service District, only 40% of families seeking early learning and childcare in Ashland have access to slots.

Mayor Tonya Graham: Rather than buying extra-large garbage bins to hold larger amounts of garbage, our team chose compacting bins that allow much more waste to be dropped into the bins between collection days.

Bob Kaplan: Where do we get our water? How much water do we need? A quick dive dive into factors that can help ensure access to sufficient water for Ashland for the next 20 years — and beyond.

Jeff Dahle; Amid the popularity of outdoor pursuits in the region like mountain biking, water-based recreation and exploring an exceptional trail system, it is crucial for the city to … establish itself as the ultimate hub, or “base camp” for outdoor adventurers.

Dylan Bloom: By adopting a proactive rather than reactive approach, we can chart a course toward a future where homelessness is not merely managed but largely eradicated in Ashland, leaving no one behind in our quest for a more equitable society.

Gina DuQuenne: Ashland Street lacks curb appeal — median strips are not manicured, and trash and broken fencing are too often what people see first. It doesn’t look safe or desirable.

Paula Hyatt: There are many small projects that yield helpful results in reducing fire risk around your home. Spread the work out into manageable bites, then taken together, the effort is impactful.

Bob Kaplan: Advisory committees are an opportunity for Ashland residents to pitch in on important issues facing our community. Being part of a city advisory committee is a great way to get involved with local government on issues you really care about and want to help.