FATAL TRAFFIC CRASH - HIGHWAY 6 NEAR LEE'S CAMP IN TILLAMOOK COUNTY

Oregon State Police (OSP) is continuing the investigation into Monday morning's single vehicle fatal traffic crash that occurred along Highway 6 near Lee's Camp in Tillamook County.

Preliminary information indicates on December 30, 2013 at approximately 6:40 a.m., a passenger car driven by a 21-year old female was traveling eastbound on Highway 6 near milepost 26 attempting to pass two other vehicles when the driver lost control. The vehicle crossed the westbound lane, struck a guardrail and went down an embankment where it overturned onto its top in a creek.

Responding firefighters used ropes to access the overturned car about 40 feet down from the roadway. The female driver was pronounced deceased at the scene. She was using safety restraints and her car's airbags deployed.

OSP troopers from the Tillamook office are conducting the investigation. Trooper Sarah Reding is the lead investigator. Speed is being investigated as a possible contributing factor.

OSP was assisted at the scene by Tillamook County Sheriff's Office, Tillamook Fire District, Tillamook Regional Medical Center Ambulance, and ODOT.

Photograph - Oregon State Police

2014 Brings Change to Pacific County Sheriff’s Office

The New Year will bring changes to the Pacific County Sheriff’s Office in Washington.  Pacific County Sheriff Scott Johnson has announced changes to the Sheriff’s Office command staff including a retirement, promotion, and new appointment.  In November Chief Civil Deputy Debbie Allison, who has been employed by Pacific County in excess of 30 years, announced her intent to retire effective Tuesday, December 31. 

With the retirement of Deputy Allison, Sheriff Johnson has appointed Denise Rowlett as Chief Deputy, with responsibility for civil, financial, and administration operations within the office.  Rowlett has been employed with the Sheriff’s Office for over 14 years serving as Deputy Director of Emergency Management since 2008.

Scott McDougall has been appointed to fill the position of Deputy Director of Emergency Management.  McDougall joins the office with previous experience in the fire service as well as Pacific County Fair Manager. 

Astoria Man Arrested on Drug Charges

A Clatsop County Drug Task Force investigation has led to the arrest of DUSTIN WILLIAM TAYLOR DOB: 01/29/86, on drug related charges Saturday morning. Drug Task Force detectives with the assistance of Clatsop County Sheriff's Deputies executed search warrants on Taylor and his residence located at 33788 Cullaby Lake Lane Warrenton, Oregon. At the residence detectives located methamphetamine, heroin, hashish, marijuana, prescription amphetamines and Ketamine as well as paraphernalia, including syringe needles, smoking devices, scales, packaging material, records of drug sales and $1,565.00 in cash. Inside the residence was a monitor conne cted to three closed circuit security cameras covering multiple angles of approach to the exterior of the residence.
Taylor was arrested on charges of Delivery of a Controlled Substance Heroin, Delivery of a Controlled Substance Methamphetamine, Possession of a Controlled Substance Heroin, Possession of a Controlled Substance Methamphetamine, Possession of a Controlled Substance Hashish, Possession of a Controlled Substance Ketamine and Possession of a Controlled Substance Amphetamine. Taylor was transported to the Clatsop County Jail where he was lodged.

CRASH - HIGHWAY 101 NORTH OF GEARHART IN CLATSOP COUNTY

Oregon State Police (OSP) is continuing the investigation into a serious injury pedestrian-involved traffic crash that occurred Thursday afternoon on Highway 101 about four miles north of Gearhart in Clatsop County. The name of the injured pedestrian is released in this update.

According to Sergeant Andrew Merila, on December 26, 2013 at approximately 2:50 p.m., JAKE EDWARD WEIL, age 20, from Warrenton, was standing on the east side of Highway 101 near Dellmoor Loop Road (about milepost 16) when he reportedly tried to cross the highway to a coffee stand and was struck by a northbound 2005 Nissan passenger car. The car's driver tried to stop but couldn't avoid hitting the pedestrian.

OREGON CIGARETTE TAX INCREASE KICKS IN JANUARY 1

The Oregon Department of Revenue is reminding smokers that the tax on cigarettes will increase on January 1, 2014. Legislation enacted in the special legislative session this fall increases the state tax on a standard, 20-count pack of cigarettes by 13 cents: from $1.18 to $1.31.

"Ordinarily, the consumer pays the tax as a part of the price when purchasing cigarettes from an Oregon retailer. Consumers must remember that they are responsible for filing and paying the tax on cigarettes purchased on-line or otherwise brought in from outside the state," said Chris Wytoski, manager of Oregon's tobacco tax program.

Oregon's total tobacco tax revenue, from cigarettes and other tobacco products, is about $250 million per year. The revenue supports the Oregon Health Plan, the state General Fund, and the Tobacco Use Reduction Account. Portions of cigarette tax revenue are also specifically dedicated to cities, counties, and public transit and, with recent legislation, mental health programs.

ASTORIA WATER LINE LEAK

Water service was disrupted for some City of Astoria water customers today.  A waterline was compromised early this morning at 5th and Madison in Astoria. Assistant City Engineer Nathan Crater (KRAY-ter) says that caused an effect on the pumping system for the Skyline tank, resulting in another leak in the Skyline area.  Crews are working to refill the Skyline tank.  Water service is the Skyline area should be restored shortly.   The leak at 5th and Madison should be repaired by this afternoon.

Long Beach Razor Clam Season Extended

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has announced there will be sixteen additional days of razor clam digging at the Long Beach Peninsula between Dec. 29 and Feb. 28. 

Long Beach will be open daily from Dec. 29 through Jan. 4, then again Jan. 17 and 18, Jan. 29 through Feb. 2 and Feb. 27 and 28.

Diggers can take 15 razor clams per day, but must keep the first 15 dug. Each digger’s catch must be kept in a separate container.

All diggers age 15 or older must have an applicable 2013-14 license to harvest razor clams. Licenses range form a three-day razor clam license ($8.60) to an annual combination fishing license ($54.25).

School Delays Friday, December 20

Pacific County (WA)
Naselle/Grays River Schools - 2 hours late

Columbia County (OR)
Clatskanie School District - Closed
Rainier School District - Closed
Vernonia School District - 1 hour late - Keasey Rd pickup at Burn Rd - No student pickup on Pebble Creek/McDonald Rd 

Cowlitz County (WA)
Longview School District - AM Elementary Buses on Snow Routes

NOAA, EPA seek public comment on proposal to disapprove Oregon's Coastal Nonpoint Pollution Program

Today, NOAA and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announce the opening of a 90-day public comment period on the agencies' proposal to disapprove the State of Oregon's coastal nonpoint pollution control program. The two agencies have found that Oregon's program falls short in three key areas. Under the terms of a settlement agreement, EPA and NOAA are required to make a final decision by May 15, 2014.

Astoria Sewer Overflow Construction Workers Injured By Manhole Cover

On December 18, 2013 at 4:20 PM Astoria 911 received multiple 911 calls reporting that a man had been struck by a manhole cover near the intersection of 8^th and Harrison in Astoria. Emergency crews responded from Astoria Fire Department, Astoria Police, Medix Ambulance and Astoria Public Works. They found a worker that had received a traumatic injury to his head and another worker who had minor injuries. Both workers were transported by Medix Ambulance to Columbia Memorial Hospital. No further information is available on their injuries.
Initial information indicates that the workers, employed by Tapani Incorporated, were performing pressure testing on recently laid pipe. There was an apparent failure of equipment used for testing which resulted in pressure being vented through the manhole cover. It appears that the more seriously injured worker was leaning over and struck in the head by the manhole cover when it was lifted out of the street.
While emergency responders were on scene 8^th street was closed. All traffic has been returned to normal.

FREE FIRST DAY GUIDED HIKE AT OREGON'S OSWALD WEST STATE PARK ON JAN. 1

 

For the third year in a row, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is partnering with America's State Parks to offer free guided First Day Hikes in state parks across Oregon on New Year's Day.

Oswald West Hike time: 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Starting location: South Neah-kah-nie Mountain trailhead just north of Manzanita on U.S. 101 between mileposts 41 and 42. Look for hiker signs that point to a gravel road on the east side of the highway. Follow the road approximately Â1/4 mile to trailhead parking area.

Terrain: Dirt/mud trail with 850-feet elevation gain (750 feet to 1600 feet).

Contact information: (503) 368-5943

Bonamici to Visit Small Businesses in Seaside Friday to Promote Shopping Locally this Holiday Season

On Friday, December 20, 2013 at 10:15am Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) will meet with Susan Huntington from the Seaside Chamber of Commerce and join her on a tour of local small retailers in downtown Seaside, OR.  The Congresswoman will encourage Oregonians to shop small and local during the holiday season and draw attention to the importance of supporting Oregon’s rural coastal communities.

 

“This is a great time to visit Seaside and other coastal communities in Oregon.  There are fewer crowds and great opportunities to do some holiday shopping at a variety of unique shops.”

Who:             Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici; Susan Huntington, Executive Director,
                        Seaside Chamber of Commerce                                                                  

What:          Shop Small, Shop Local: Seaside Small Business Tour and Discussion

When:         Friday, December 20, 2013 at 10:15am

Where:        Seaside Chamber of Commerce, 7 N Roosevelt Drive, Seaside, OR 97138

Telephone Outage in Pacific County - 911 Lines re-routed

UPDATE: 

Pacific County Emergency Management Agency

Telephone Outage Update - Repairs have been made, test calls conducted, and it now appears that the fiber optic cut has been repaired and telephone systems are functioning normally.

 

 

 

Pacific County is currently experiencing a telephone outage and is still determining the extent of the geographic area impacted. 

Emergency Manager Stephanie Fritts says 9-1-1 lines have been re-routed to business lines and are functional; however it appears that South Bend residents cannot dial out to Raymond.  Long distance dialing has also been impacted.  Further testing is underway at this time.  The outage is related to a fiber cut in the Vader area, and the estimated time length of the outage is currently unknown.

Again, 9-1-1 lines within Pacific County have been re-routed to business lines and are functional.  Updates will be posted to the Pacific County Emergency Management Facebook page as more information becomes available.

Cover Oregon Backlog Catch-up

Dr. Bruce Goldberg, acting executive director of Cover Oregon, held a press conference Monday morning with an update on the progress of the troubled health insurance exchange.
 
The online marketplace is still not operational.   Goldberg said coverage is available through Cover Oregon using paper applications.  More staff was added over the weekend to deal with the backlog of applications submitted by December 4th.  Goldberg said those who submitted their applications by the deadline will soon receive a telephone call or email letting them know the status of the application. 

 “Those people who have had an application that came in complete by December 4th, and get us a completed enrollment form – they have until December 27th at 5pm to choose a health plan."

Urgent culvert replacement will close OR 202 between Astoria and Jewell, in Clatsop County

An urgent project to replace a failed culvert beneath OR 202 (Nehalem Hwy.), approximately seven miles north of Jewell (MP 22.275), will result in the closure of the highway to through traffic near Tidewater Summit.  Beginning at 7 a.m. Monday, December 16 and continuing until 5 p.m., Tuesday, December 17, the highway will be closed.
Local OR 202 traffic can access residences to the north and south of the closure, but through traffic will have to use US 30-to-OR 47 or US 26-to-US 101 as alternate routes.

Board of Clatsop County Commissioners Meeting (Dec 11) Highlights

Boat launch lease

The board approved a lease agreement with the owners of property containing a boat launch ramp and parking area at Aldrich Point near Brownsmead.

The 10-year lease, with Ernest John Affolter and Gerald Veenker, will enable the county to resume maintenance and repairs at the site. The county has maintained the site since the 1970s but ceased those activities in 2007 when it was unable to come to a lease or sale agreement with the owners at that time.

Animal training device ban

The board postponed action on a proposed ordinance banning the use of bullhooks, whips and electric prods on certain animals.

The ordinance would prohibit the use of the devices on elephants, felines and primates used for display or entertainment in the county. Commissioners and staff discussed adding language that would expand the list of devices covered, and considered putting the ordinance before county voters at an upcoming election.

The board will take up the issue at its Feb. 26, 2014 meeting.

Veterans Services presentation

The board heard a presentation from Veterans Services Officer Phil Simmons, who provided an update on the program’s accomplishments since the commissioners voted earlier this year to increase county support. He and his wife, Buffy Simmons, have increased the number of hours available to work with clients, and have increased the amount of benefits coming to local claimants, while reducing the number of open claims.

School Delays Thurs, Dec 12

Columbia County:

• Clatskanie Sch. Dist. - 2 Hours Late, No AM kindergarten, Buses on snow routes

• Scappoose Sch. Dist. - Buses on snow routes

• St. Helens Sch. Dist. - The following St. Helens School District bus routes are on snow routes: 12, 15 & 17 and special needs A & C.

• Vernonia Sch. Dist. - No student pickup or dropoff on Stoney Point or Pebble Creek Roads

ODFW - New salmon, steelhead, sturgeon endorsement for sport fishers

Beginning Jan. 1, 2014 anglers fishing for salmon, steelhead or sturgeon in the Columbia River and its tributaries will be required to have a Columbia River Basin endorsement. The endorsement will be required on all rivers and tributaries in Oregon that ultimately empty into the Columbia River.See a map of the Basin and get more information.

Reckless Driver Arrested in Astoria

On December 10, 2013 at about 4:50 pm Astoria Police received a call of a vehicle “spinning cookies” in the parking lot of Gray School, 785 Alameda Ave. The caller said that on leaving the parking lot the driver appeared to be intentionally hitting garbage cans on Alameda. The vehicle was described as a red Toyota Corolla. While units were en route to the call to try and intercept the vehicle, additional callers reported that the vehicle was now in the 300 block of Alameda driving eastbound, continuing to hit garbage cans and now hitting mailboxes as well. Callers later reported that the vehicle was traveling the wrong direction on Duane

OHA Message about Fukushima:

The Oregon Public Health Division and its Radiation Protection Services Program are aware of developments out of Japan.

The Public Health Division continues to actively monitor air on a monthly basis in Portland and Corvallis, and sand, sea water and drinking water on a quarterly basis on the northern, central and southern Oregon coast for any higher-than-normal levels of radiation due to the Japan tsunami and related radiation release. The air and precipitation data collection and analysis at Portland and Corvallis is done in partnership with the EPA, and the water and sand collections at the coast are coordinated by RPS.

At this time, Oregon environmental surveillance data does not indicate higher-than-normal levels of radiation in Oregon.

Astoria Fire Department Mobile Christmas Food Drive Delayed

Due to the current weather and road conditions TONIGHT'S (Mon, Dec 9) Astoria Fire Department Christmas Food Drive routes will be re-scheduled for Thursday, December 12th. The routes that are affected include Emerald Heights, Alderbrook and Uppertown.

Tomorrow's and Wednesday's routes are still planned as originally scheduled.

Tillamook Warming Center Open Tonight (Mon, Dec 9)

The Tillamook Warming Center will be open again tonight, (Monday December 9th) to provide a safe place for people to be during the current freezing temperatures. The warming center is located at 5th and Miller Streets in Tillamook and the entrance is on 4th Street. Shelter only.  No food is available. The open hours are overnight: from 8pm to 9am.  Officials anticipate this will be the last night the center will be open for the current cold weather event.

American Legion Hall in Astoria Closed Today (Mon, Dec 9)

Clatsop Post 12 – The American Legion Hall at 1132 Exchange in Astoria, is closed today (Mon, Dec 9) due to heating problems in the building.  Post 12 hopes to re-open tomorrow (Tues, Dec 10)

ASTORIA PARKS AND RECREATION WELLNESS CHALLENGE

The Astoria Parks and Recreation Department is starting an innovative health and fitness program in January, the Astoria Wellness Challenge. This wrap-around program will include fitness classes, nutrition guidance by a registered dietitian, information sessions about heart health and motivation, as well as a health screening. Up to 50 participants will compete with each other for prizes for 9 weeks, and in the process everyone will win better health.

"'I will eat better and exercise more' is a pretty typical New Year's resolution," said Wellness Challenge coordinator Julia Mabry. "This program helps people stick to those resolutions for more than just a few days. It empowers them to follow through."

The Challenge starts January 9th and involves many community partners, including a dietitian, Coastal Family Health Center, the Clatsop Community College Nursing Program, an exercise physiologist, the Astoria Coop, and various fitness instructors. They are all lending their expertise to help the community become healthier.

SALMONBERRY CORRIDOR MASTER PLAN MEETINGS DEC 3,4

Two public input sessions are taking place this week in Tillamook County for The Salmonberry Corridor Master Plan.  Comments will be taken from adjacent landowners and the public on the master planning process.

The first session is today (Dec 3)  in the Tillamook West End – at the ODF Office from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
5005 3rd Street

Then tomorrow (Dec 4) for the East End – in Banks, from  6:00 - 7:30 p.m. at the  Banks Fire Hall, 300 Main Street

The Salmonberry Corridor is 86 miles long and encompasses the Port of Tillamook Bay Railway. After storm damage in 2007, the rail line was closed and is no longer providing a train connection from the coast to the valley. The corridor is proposed to be a trail, a rail-to-trail and a rail-with-trail along the 86 miles connecting the City of Tillamook to City of Banks.

Astoria City Council Approves Fund To Aid Struggling Water Rate Payers

The City of Astoria will offer financial aid to water and sewer rate payers have trouble paying their bills, under a program approved yesterday by the city council.
City officials told the council the financial aid will not raise rates for other rate payers.  Council member Drew Herzig, who proposed the program in August, suggested applications be made each time a ratepayer has trouble paying a bill
“I would suggest that any application will only apply for the current billing cycle, but individuals can apply as often as they need to, so an application will only be good for one use.”  
Citing budgetary concerns, council member Arlene Lamear recommended limiting the number of times applicants could access the program.
“It seem like with our limited funding, just 10 thousand dollars, which doesn’t go very far when you start paying water bills.  I think the applicant should only be able to access that fund twice a year, which the way it was figured out, would be 67 households.”

WHAT IS THE RIGHT PRICE TO SELL YOUR GOODS OR SERVICES?

CEDR, Clatsop Community College, Clatsop County and the Oregon Coast Council for the Arts are sponsoring a workshop on Wednesday, December 4th, titled: "How to Charge what you are worth".  The workshop will be held on the main campus of Clatsop Community College in Astoria at Columbia Hall, Room 219, from 5:30-8:00 pm  Presenter Jackie B. Peterson explains how to charge the right price and provides insight on pricing models and the emotional barriers to pricing goods and services appropriately.    This workshop is for anyone who sets pricing for their goods or services. To register,  call  CEDR offices at 503-338-2402 or email  sbdc@clatsopcc.edu with your name, phone number and email address.

COVER OREGON SIGN-UP DEADLINE DEC. 4; LOCAL HELP AVAILABLE

The deadline to file applications to start health insurance coverage with Cover Oregon is Wednesday, Dec. 4.

Applications must be postmarked by Dec. 4 in order for applicants to begin receiving coverage under the health insurance exchange beginning on Jan. 1, 2014.

Applicants who sign up after the Dec. 4 deadline may not begin receiving coverage until a later date.

Cover Oregon is the state’s new online marketplace where Oregonians can shop for health insurance, compare various health insurance options side-by-side  to find plans that will fit their needs and budget, and access savings to help pay for coverage. More Oregonians can now get health insurance even if they already have a health condition.

Clatsop County residents looking to apply can get help locally from:

Judi Mahoney, Clatsop County Public Health outreach coordinator, (503) 338-3684, judimahoney@yahoo.com

-or-

Miranda Helligso, Coastal Family Health Center, (503) 741-8028, mhelligso@coastalfhc.org

For a list of other local agents available to assist with applications, and for other information on Cover Oregon go to www.coveroregon.com or call toll-free 1-855-CoverOR.

Astoria Police Respond to Report of Body Body Located by Students Waiting for Ride

On December 2, 2013 at 1542 Astoria Police were contacted by a 911 caller. The caller reported that they had located a deceased person in the woods behind Astoria High School.
Police arrived and contacted a 17 boy and 15 year old girl who had discovered the body. They had been in the area commonly known as "The Hill" waiting on a ride, the area is a mixture of private and public property. They were walking the trails when they came across what they initially thought was a person who had fallen down near a trail. They soon realized that the person was deceased.
The reporting party took the police to where the boy was located and they confirmed that the person was deceased. The Clatsop County Medical Examiner was notified and responded to the scene.

$5 OFF OREGON STATE PARK DAY-USE PERMIT IN DECEMBER

Downloadable file: day-use permit parks

December is "good deal" month at Oregon State Parks. From December 1- December 31, visitors and gift-givers can save $5 on the 12-month day-use parking permit. Parking fees are required at 26 Oregon state parks, and cost $5 per day, unless you have a 12 or 24-month pass. The 12-month pass is on sale for $25 - regularly $30 - in December.

"This makes a great gift," said Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) spokesman Chris Havel. "And with $5 off, it's also a big bargain " The permits are transferable from vehicle to vehicle, making them a versatile value in today's economy. OPRD also offers a 24-month pass, priced at $50, that Havel said is "always a good deal."

TILLAMOOK WARMING CENTER TO REMAIN OPEN OVERNIGHT HOURS THIS WEEK

The Tillamook Warming Center will be open this week (Monday night (Dec 2) through at least Saturday (Dec 7) night) to provide a safe place for people to be during the expected freezing temperatures.  The warming center is located at 5th and Miller Streets in Tillamook and the entrance is on 4th Street.  Shelter only, no food is available at the site. The open hours are 8pm to 9am.

SETD BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETS - PUBLIC INVITED

The Sunset Empire Transportation District will hold a Board of Commissioners Meeting, Thursday, December 12th, at 9am in the Astoria Transit Center Conference Room, 900 Marine Drive, in Astoria.  Agenda items include: Special Transportation Funds Recommendations,  Cost Allocation Plan Changes and Strategic Goals.  The public is welcome.

Astoria Police Issue Merchant Alert for Forged Checks

Identity theft suspects/ forged checks for cash, goods or services.
On Novermber 27th the Astoria Police Department was contacted by the Washington State Patrol, who advised that they had taken a male and female into custody.  The suspects were in possession of numerous checks, a check printer and several identifications in different names.  Checks listing addresses in multiple states and multiple cities were discovered.  Several checks listing addresses in Astoria Oregon and Warrenton Oregon were also recovered.  At this time it is unknown whether the subjects were successful in obtaining, cash, goods or services in Clatsop County.  Checks may have been uttered in the name of Kyle Dove, Jaymi L. Smith and Jaymi Lynn Smith.  If you believe you are a victim of fraud related to these individuals, please contact your local police department.

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE WARNS OF COLD AIR, HEAVY PRECIP COMING

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE WARNS OF TRICKY TRAVEL OVER THE CASCADE PASSES SUNDAY NIGHT FOLLOWED BY VERY COLD AIR MUCH OF NEXT WEEK...
THOSE TRAVELING HOME FROM THE HOLIDAY WEEKEND MAY WANT TO CONSIDER TRAVEL BY TOMORROW (SATURDAY)...AS WEATHER IS EXPECTED TO RAPIDLY DETERIORATE ACROSS THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST SUNDAY.

A SIGNIFICANT CHANGE IN THE WEATHER PATTERN IS EXPECTED SUNDAY AS A VERY STRONG COLD FRONT MOVES INTO THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST. THIS SYSTEM WILL BRING SNOW TO THE CASCADE PASSES...WITH PLENTY OF RAIN EXPECTED FOR THE LOWLANDS.

Seaside Police Aprehend Suspected Burglar

On October 26, 2013, John Andreas Owens, 44 from Independence Oregon, was taken into custody and charged with the burglary in the first degree in connection with the burglary of McKeown’s Restaurant that occurred on October 18, 2013. Owen had been a suspect in the McKeown’s burglary as well as a number of other commercial burglaries between Warrenton & Seaside.

ASTORIA REAFFIRMS EXCESS PROPERTY SALES PROCESS

Recently some Astoria homeowners were surprised to learn some city-owned properties near theirs were being put up for sale.  Letters to adjacent property owners were generated as part of a change in the way the city disposes of property.  Prior to this year, city owned properties were typically sold only when a member of the public approached the city with an offer to buy.  In May of this year, the city council adopted the sale of excess city property as one of 13 goals for the fiscal year 2013/2014.
 

At this week’s City Council meeting, City Manager Paul Benoit said the city owns some 1300 properties, of those, 37 were selected as the first to be offered for sale under the new process.  Although offers have been written on some of the properties, Benoit said no sale can be completed without a public hearing.

DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION APPROVES PROPERTY TRANSFER TO COLUMBIA RIVER MARITIME MUSEUM

Changes of ownership of several downtown Astoria properties moved a step forward Monday night when the Astoria Downtown Development Commission approved transfer of a small, approximately 118 by 116 square foot parcel of land to the Columbia River Maritime Museum.  As part of the transfer, the City of Astoria will retain utilities and access easement to the property, located just east of the Museum’s Barbey Maritime Center, also known as the former Train Depot.  

FREE PARKING FOR ASTORIA DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY SHOPPERS

As part of what has become an annual tradition, the Astoria City Council has waived overtime parking fees in the city’s downtown area for holiday shoppers. Astoria Downtown Historic District Association President Dulcye Taylor and Executive Director Alana (ah-LANE-ah) Garner asked the council to assure shoppers free parking while patronizing downtown businesses.  After the Council agreed, Garner extended an invitation to further holiday festivities:
 

“ Also I would like to invite you and the City Council, as well as all of Astoria to join us downtown Saturday, November 30^th.  There’s going to be a bunch of great deals downtown.  All the downtown businesses are offering deals starting November 30^th through December 24^th.  There will also be free movies at the Liberty Theater, starting at 3 o’clock and then we will be doing a street lighting at around 5 o’clock.”

Garner thanked the council for extending the tradition another year and added children can also look forward to meeting Santa Claus in downtown Astoria on Saturday, November 30^th, at 3pm.

Astoria Police Arrest Suspect in Credit Card Scam Police Looking for Additional Victims

On November 10^th, 2013 Astoria Police had been called by T&C home furniture about suspicious charges by Matthew Dunn, Age 28 who had purchased a laptop then returned to purchase more but when asked about the cards he was using became evasive and left. Dunn had photo ID from California and the cards bore his name. While the charges had gone through, the managers at T&C reported it because it caused them to be suspicious. Those suspicions turned out to be well founded.

On November 14, 2013 at 2:48 PM Astoria Police received a call from the Cannery Pier Hotel. They learned that a subject who identified himself as Matthew Dunn, age 28, had been staying there. After his check out, they learned that the prepaid charge cards that he used were returned as fraudulent. They also learned that there was a woman who was staying with him who had signed a charge at the spa and had to cross out her name and sign another name.

SUNSET EMPIRE TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT CHANGES TO NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETINGS

Sunset Empire Transportation District (SETD) Board of Commissioners announces that due to the Holiday Season, they will be combining their regularly scheduled Board Meetings for November and December to one meeting on December 12, 2013 at 9:00 AM at the Astoria Transit Center. A copy of the meeting agenda or board pack will be available at the Astoria Transit Center on December 6th or on the SETD website at www.ridethebus.org.

ASTORIA CITY COUNCIL MEMBER DREW HERZIG AND POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

The Astoria City Council conducted some internal housekeeping during their Monday night meeting.  Council member Drew Herzig was asked by Mayor Willis Van Dusen to speak to possible conflicts of interest regarding council member service.  First: regarding Herzig and the Friends of the Astoria Armory,  then regarding communications regarding Russ Warr and the local business: Astoria Granite Works.  The mayor also addressed etiquette or protocol in the running of council meetings.  

 

Drew Herzig addressed the council about his dealings with the Armory and the Friends of the Armory group.

Herzig:  “I’m going to have to go into a lot of detail so I ask your patience on this – thank you.  Early in October, 2013, I was invited to attend a meeting on Friday, October 11^th.  The purpose of the meeting was to form a board of directors for The Friends of the Astoria Armory, then organizing as a 501 c.  Prior to this meeting there was no board of directors.  The meeting took place at Craft 3 offices in Astoria.  There were no City of Astoria staff present at this part of the meeting.  At the meeting I was invited to be on the Board of Directors for the Friends of the Astoria Armory. 

ASTORIA DRAFT TRANSPORTATION PLAN

Over the past two years, City of Astoria staff and an appointed Transportation Advisory Committee have been working on a draft 20 year transportation plan.  On Monday night the Astoria City Council heard a presentation on the plan from Chris Maciejewski (Mah-JESS-key)  of DKS Associates, a Portland transportation planning and engineering firm hired by the city. 

In his presentation, he identified top concerns planners and Astorians identified in a series of community meetings.  With an Astoria bypass (connecting Oregon Highway 20 and 101 business with U.S. Highway 30.), not likely to be funded in the next 20 years, one alternative citizens and planners are considering is whether some downtown streets should be changed from their one-way designations.  Other considerations are how to improve cross town traffic flow and improve pedestrian safety and traffic flow on Marine Drive west of the downtown center and in the downtown core. The area of Commercial and 8th Streets has been identified as having the most congestion and traffic accidents. 

ASTORIA SURPLUS PROPERTY SALES

The City of Astoria has begun the process of surplus property sales.  City officials say 150 parcels are targeted for sale in the next year.  Hundreds of properties could eventually be sold, adding to the tax base and generating revenue.  Astoria real estate firm Area Properties is representing the city in the sales.  So far offers have been made on several properties.  But as citizens and adjacent property owners become aware of the sales, concerns are being raised.  As City Manager Paul Benoit told the council, complaints from adjacent property owners have resulted in changes to the sales process. 

 

Benoit: “One example is when we did the first advertisement to adjacent property owners there was a lot of concern because the letter that went out gave what citizens felt to be a very short response time.  We acknowledged it was a short response time and we’re working to expand that.  I think all the property owners in the first round have been notified they have more time, and if the council continues with this process we’ll send a letter out that again, you can review before we sent it out, but it will give several weeks for people to respond.” 

Traffic Impacts: City of Astoria 11th St CSO Separation project.

PROJECT UPDATE

8^th St was paved last week with the first lift from Kensington to Niagara. The final lift of asphalt will be installed in the next two weeks, weather permitting. Tapani will continue working on curbs, sidewalk and intersection corner ramps on 8^th St between Franklin and Niagara. Some of the street striping work was completed last week and the final striping effort will be done when weather allows.

Final project work and cleanup activities have begun with the expectation that the project will be complete by early December.

COLUMBIA COUNTY CCRIDER TRANSIT CENTER OPENS ON MONDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2013

The CCRider Transit Center Park n Ride will open on Monday, November 18th.for riders.  There are changes to the St. Helens to Portland Schedule, PCC-Rockcreek/willow Creek/Hillsboro Schedule and the South Flex Route Schedule.

Downloadable file: http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2013-11/1528/68870/2013_New_Flex_Schedule.pdf (South Flex brochure)

Downloadable file: http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2013-11/1528/68870/Col_Co_Rider_Portland_Brochure.pdf (St. Helens to Portland)

Downloadable file: http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2013-11/1528/68870/4_12_13Col_Co_Rider_PCC_Brochure_10-16-_13.pdf (PCC -Willow Creek Schedule)

Downloadable file: http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2013-11/1528/68870/St._Helens_Transit_Center_Park_n_Ride_opening.pdf (St.Helen Transit Center Park n Ride Opening)

GRANTS FUND NEW TRAIL BRIDGES ON THE TILLAMOOK STATE FOREST

Off-road enthusiasts and stream habitat alike will benefit from new Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) bridges in the Tillamook State Forest, thanks to grant funds.

ODF recently completed construction of two new off-highway vehicle (OHV) trail bridges on the Elliott Creek and Military OHV trails. The project was initiated to replace failing and poorly located bridges, and to enhance and restore stream habitat through trail and bridge relocation. 

Both trails cross the Devil's Lake Fork of the Wilson River, which is an important salmon stream in the northern Coast Range near mile marker 33 on State Highway 6.

The new 114 foot-long bridge on the Elliott Creek Trail replaced four bridges that were located within the stream channel and floodplain. One was failing, and all risked damage during a major flood or storm.   

APPLICANTS SOUGHT FOR ARCH CAPE DESIGN REVIEW COMMITTEE

  Clatsop County is seeking applications for two open seats on the Southwest Coastal Citizens Advisory Committee.

The committee evaluates all construction design review applications for the Arch Cape community submitted to the county Community Development Department. Members must be property owners or residents of Arch Cape. The committee generally meets once a month.

The term for the positions is January 2014 to January 2018. The county Board of Commissioners will make the appointments.

Deadline for applications is Monday, Dec. 16. To apply, obtain an application form and return it to the Clatsop County Manager’s Office at 800 Exchange St., Suite 410, Astoria OR 97103, (503) 325-1000. Forms are available from the County Manager’s Office or can be downloaded from the county website www.co.clatsop.or.us at “Your County-Citizen Involvement.”

JOHNSON – BOONE TOWN HALL MEETING IN TILLAMOOK SATURDAY

Oregon State Senator Betsy Johnson and State Representative Deborah Boone will hold a Tillamook Town Hall Meeting on Saturday (Nov 2) from 12:00pm to 1:30pm at the Port of Tillamook Bay Officers Mess Hall, 6825 Officers Row in Tillamook.  

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Warrenton's Ensign Lane Extension Ribbon Cutting Friday

A Ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Ensign Lane extension in Warrenton will take place Friday, November 1st, 10am, at SE Ensign Lane and SE 19th Steet in Warrenton (that’s the intersection southeast of Coscto)

FMI – 503-325-8631

NEW CASCADIA EARTHQUAKE AND TSUNAMI SCENARIO RELEASED

Report issued just days before the Great Oregon Shakeout, a statewide earthquake drill this Thursday 

On January 26, 1700 an estimated M9 earthquake unzipped the 700+ mile Cascadia Subduction Zone fault from northern California, USA to southern British Columbia, Canada, much like recent events in 2011 in Japan and 2010 in Chile. The newly released "Cascadia Subduction Zone Earthquakes: A Magnitude 9.0 Earthquake Scenario" examines how the Pacific Northwest may fare after the next great 'megathrust' earthquake and tsunami. "The new report conveys the most current scientific and emergency planning information accessible to a wide variety of audiences." said Tamra Biasco of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, one of the lead authors.