Ashland’s city government is grappling with a series of high-stakes tensions that test public trust and challenge its capacity to deliver services. 

Major flashpoints include: 

• controversial non-union staff pay raises approved amid service cuts and utility fee hikes

• a divided council rejecting state funds for a homeless shelter citing lack of long-term planning 

• new ordinances restricting public camping 

• expanding enforcement zones that have raised concerns about due process and equitable treatment. 

Add to that the debates over transparency and budget oversight—particularly around large fees, shifting priorities, and unclear long-term financial projections—and it’s clear the gap between residents’ expectations and local government action is growing. 

Addressing those gaps will require not only policy changes but a renewed focus on open dialogue, citizen engagement, and accountable leadership.

Explore some of the top areas of concern and then join us on the Ashland Forward Facebook Group

City Government

Budget 

Ashland’s municipal costs are rising faster than revenues, pushing cuts to parks, recreation, and other services. 

Economy

Tourism and cultural events has been key to the local economy, and external shocks (e.g. economic downturns, wildfire seasons) can deeply disrupt revenues. 

Finance

Ashland’s rising costs and shrinking revenues are forcing tough choices about fees, services, and the city’s financial sustainability.

Community

Business

Ashland’s small businesses are fighting rising costs, shrinking foot traffic, and city hurdles that threaten the town’s local character and vitality.

Environment

The city and regional ecosystems face serious wildfire danger, rising temperatures in spring and fall leading to increased water use, and threatened water supplies, forests, homes, health and public safety.

Housing

Rising housing costs and limited supply are pressuring many Ashland residents, while city leaders debate strategies to support those

without stable housing.

Parks and Recreation

Ashland Parks department, with finite maintenance budget, continues to expand land holdings and new parks, while controversial

decisions about herbicide use and a temporary $5/month funding fee leaves residents questioning priorities and long-term sustainability.