Inside Deschutes County

In this episode of Inside Deschutes County, we sit down with members of the Deschutes County Tax/Finance Department to talk about the County’s transition to DocuPet, a new online dog licensing service launching in July. We cover what’s changing, why the County made the switch, and how DocuPet makes licensing faster and easier for dog owners. With the Fourth of July approaching, a time when many pe...

In this episode of Inside Deschutes County, we dive into the behind-the-scenes world of pool and hotel inspections with longtime Environmental Health Specialist John Mason. From checking chlorine levels to tracking down bed bugs, John shares what it takes to keep public pools safe and what might cause a facility to fall short of health standards. Whether you’re a frequent hotel guest or just curio...

In this episode, we’re joined by Greg Brady from Deschutes County Solid Waste to talk about household hazardous waste—what it is, why it matters, and how you can safely get rid of it. Greg shares how the County has expanded its free disposal options at Knott Landfill and what steps you can take to protect your health and the environment. We also preview upcoming rural collection events in June, in...

In this milestone episode of Inside Deschutes County, we celebrate 50 episodes of storytelling, service, and community connection. From Commissioner insights and wildfire mitigation to lost treasures and cartoon impressions, we revisit some of the most impactful conversations and memorable moments.  Thanks for listening and here's to the next 50!

In this episode, we sit down with Lt. Nathan Garibay to talk about the life-saving work of Deschutes County Search and Rescue. From avalanches, to ski rescues to recent flooding near Burns, Lt. Garibay shares how teams train, deploy, and stay ready for anything. Hear firsthand what it takes to respond when the terrain is tough, time is short, and lives are on the line.

In this episode of Inside Deschutes County, we talk with Deschutes County Health Officer Dr. Richard Fawcett and Public Health Director Heather Kaisner about the recent concerns surrounding measles. They break down how measles spreads, why it’s making a comeback, and what steps residents can take to protect themselves and the community. Tune in for an important public health update and what you ne...

In this episode, we talk with Paul Partridge, Program Manager for Deschutes County’s Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) program. Paul shares how the program supports more than 1,000 individuals across the region.  We explore the challenges families face, how the program is adapting to growing needs, and why collaboration and community partnerships are key to improving lives.

In this episode of Inside Deschutes County, we sit down with Sheriff Kent van der Kamp and Deputy Jason Billings to discuss the transition to new leadership, budgeting for public safety, and the future of law enforcement in Deschutes County.

On this episode of the Inside Deschutes County podcast, we sit down with County Forester, Kevin Moriarty to talk about the Sweat Equity Bin Rental Program. Listen and learn about a program that can help create defensible space and protect your neighborhood this wildfire season.

In this episode, we’re talking about an important initiative aimed at helping young adults navigate mental health and substance use challenges. Our guests, Alivia Duncan and Dustin Fanning Painter from Deschutes County Behavioral Health, join us to discuss SAMHSA’s new RecoverMe campaign—an initiative designed to connect young adults with practical, affirming resources and a supportive recovery co...

In this episode, we’re joined by Commissioner Phil Chang, recently sworn in for his second term. Commissioner Chang shares insights on critical topics like wildfire mitigation, affordable housing, addressing houselessness, and transportation challenges. Tune in to hear about the work being done to make Deschutes County a better place for everyone.

In this episode we sit down with Jeff Sageser, Recording Supervisor at the Deschutes County Clerk’s Office, to explore the fascinating world of historical archives and document preservation. Jeff shares insights into the delicate process of maintaining decades-old records, the role of cursive handwriting in historical documentation, and the challenges of ensuring future generations can access and...

Jackie Wilson from Deschutes County Solid Waste shares some practical tips, common recycling mistakes, and how we can all make the holidays a little greener. Whether you’re wondering what to do with all that gift wrap or how to properly dispose of a Christmas tree, we’ve got you covered.

On this episode, we sit down with Emily Horton from Deschutes County Public Health to talk all things food safety. From turkey thawing tips to avoiding cross-contamination, Emily shares practical advice to help keep your holiday meals safe and delicious.

In this episode, we sit down with A.J. Middleton, a dedicated Veterans Services Officer with Deschutes County Veterans’ Services. A.J. shares his insights into the vital services and support programs available to veterans and their families in our community.

  Join us as we dive into the final days before the Nov. 5 General Election! We’re chatting with County Clerk Steve Dennison to bring you the inside scoop on voter turnout, last-minute tips, tech insights, and what goes into delivering timely and accurate results.  

In this episode, we sit down with District Attorney Steve Gunnels. We discuss the critical shortage of defense attorneys, the growing importance of deflection programs, and factors influencing the County's crime rates.

As wildfire season starts to wind down, we explore this year's multifaceted evacuation coordination and response.  Join us as we discuss the lessons learned and strategies used during a crisis with representatives from Deschutes County Emergency Management and 9-1-1.

In this episode, we dive into Deschutes County Solid Waste Department’s exciting new initiative—the inaugural Drop It, Swap It event!  Designed to reduce waste through community donation and thrifting, the event encourages people to donate unwanted items and swap them for something new-to-you. We sit down with Susan Baker and Jackie Wilson from Solid Waste to learn how this event fosters sustainab...

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. In this episode, we chat with Caroline Suiter and Bethany Kuschel from the Deschutes County Prevention and Health Promotion Team in Health Services. They explain the events that are happening throughout the month of September and how suicide prevention awareness is having an impact throughout our region.

In this episode, we dive into the Comprehensive Care for Youth and Families program within Deschutes County Behavioral Health. Join us as we sit down with Program Manager Shannon Brister to explore how Comprehensive Care is making a difference in the community by providing holistic and accessible mental health services for children, youth and families.

Join us as we dive into the benefits of dog licensing with Kristina Boyer from Deschutes County and representatives from Brightside Animal Center in Redmond. Plus, we find out the most popular dog breeds and dog names in Deschutes County!  

Summer is a busy time of year for Deschutes County Environmental Health.  From restaurants to swimming pools to drinking water, inspectors are working to keep you and your family safe.  We talk to Environmental Health Supervisor Eric Mone about the work they do.

In Episode 30, we talk County finances.  With the budget for Fiscal Year 2025 officially adopted, we speak to Budget Manager Dan Emerson and get his input about how this important process came together.

WIC is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, a huge milestone for the public health program which helps women, infants and children with their nutritional needs.  We talk to Supervisor Christine Pagano about the legacy of the program and where it goes from here.