News

Columbia County will close services at the Courthouse and John Gumm Buildings on Monday, October 28, 2024, due to water main repairs in St. Helens. The City of St. Helens is replacing two failing water valves at the intersection of Cowlitz Street and South 1st Street, requiring a water shutdown in the Riverfront District and nearby areas.

The water shutoff will begin at 7 a.m. and is expected to last until 4 p.m. Affected streets include parts of Strand Street, Cowlitz Street, St. Helens Street, and others. These repairs are necessary to prevent future issues with the city's water system, but they will temporarily impact services at these county buildings.

The Columbia County Elections Department, however, will remain open to assist with any election-related needs.

All county offices are expected to reopen on Tuesday, October 29, 2024. We encourage residents to prepare for the water shutoff by storing water and limiting water use during the repair. For more details on how to prepare, visit the City of St. Helens' website at www.sthelensoregon.gov.

For further information, please contact Columbia County at (503) 397-7210.

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About Columbia County
Founded in 1854, Columbia County is located in northwest Oregon, just 30 minutes from Portland. With 62 miles of scenic Columbia River shoreline, it is home to Oregon's only two marine parks: Sand Island on the Columbia River and J.J. Collins Memorial Marine Park on the Multnomah Channel. With St. Helens as its county seat, Columbia County covers 657 square miles and is home to over 53,000 people. For more information, visit www.columbiacountyor.gov.

2024 Action Awareness Month Proclamation.pdf

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 4, 2024

Columbia County Celebrates Renovation of the Historic John Gumm Building
Renovations will optimize county operations, support economic development, and preserve a community landmark.

Columbia County, OR – Columbia County is excited to announce the completion of the first phase of renovations to the historic John Gumm building, a major step in preserving local heritage while enhancing public services. The revitalized building, a cherished local landmark, now serves as a hub for county administration, economic growth, and cultural engagement.

The John Gumm building will house Columbia County’s administrative offices, the Columbia Economic Team, the Small Business Development Center, and the Columbia County Museum. The first phase of renovations focused on essential structural improvements, including foundation repairs, window and roof upgrades, entrance restoration, and the installation of ramps and elevators to ensure full accessibility.

To celebrate this milestone, Columbia County held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 3, 2024, at 11:30 AM. Around 100 attendees toured the beautifully renovated building, which blends its historic character with modern updates. Following the ceremony, visitors were treated to a complimentary lunch featuring grilled hamburgers, hot dogs, and root beer floats, all prepared and served by county employees who generously volunteered to assist with the event.

Key speakers at the ceremony included:

• Casey Garrett, Chair of the Columbia County Board of Commissioners
• Rick Scholl, Mayor of St. Helens
• Betsy Johnson, Former Oregon State Senator
• Tony Hyde, Board President of the Columbia Economic Team
• Paul Vogel, Executive Director of the Columbia Economic Team
• Brandon Sundeen, Vice President of the Columbia County Museum Association

“It’s exciting to see this historic space transformed into a modern resource for our community,” said Casey Garrett, Columbia County Commissioner. “We are proud of this achievement and look forward to its positive impact.”

Cutting the ribbon at the renovated John Gumm Building.
Pictured (left to right): Melissa Enright, General Services; County Commissioners: Margaret Magruder, Casey Garrett, and Kellie Smith; Riley Baker, General Services Director.

The renovated building will not only improve access to essential services but also provide a vibrant space for local businesses and cultural activities. This project is set to play a key role in boosting the local economy and enhancing the quality of life for both residents and visitors.

Looking ahead, the next phase of building upgrades will focus on sustainability. Plans include installing rooftop solar panels and battery storage, reflecting Columbia County’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Originally built in 1919, the John Gumm building has long been a symbol of Columbia County’s rich history. With these renovations, the county is ensuring that this iconic structure remains a valuable community resource for generations to come.

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About Columbia County
Founded in 1854, Columbia County is located in northwest Oregon, just 30 minutes from Portland. With 62 miles of scenic Columbia River shoreline, it is home to Oregon's only two marine parks: Sand Island on the Columbia River and J.J. Collins Memorial Marine Park on the Multnomah Channel. With St. Helens as its county seat, Columbia County covers 657 square miles and is home to over 53,000 people. For more information, visit www.columbiacountyor.gov.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 2, 2024

Columbia County Adopts Strategic Plan to Enhance Community Services

Columbia County, OR – The Columbia County Board of Commissioners is pleased to announce the adoption of the Columbia County Strategic Plan, which serves as a roadmap to guide the County's goals and priorities in the coming years. This adoption, dated September 20, 2024, represents the culmination of extensive collaboration among county departments, stakeholders, and the Strategic Planning Committee.

The Strategic Plan builds on the Mission, Vision, and Values Statements established in 2018, outlining a clear path for the county to unify its goals, prioritize resources, and promote a culture centered on communication, innovation, and high-quality public service.

"This Strategic Plan is the product of many hours of dedicated work by our employees and commissioners. It establishes a foundation for Columbia County to address current needs while also preparing for future opportunities and challenges," said Mike Russell, Director of Public Works and Co-Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee. "We believe this plan will align our actions with our core values, ensuring we serve our residents with transparency and efficiency."

The Board of County Commissioners has worked closely to ensure the plan benefits every part of the community. "This Strategic Plan sets the direction for Columbia County's future, with clear objectives that reflect our citizens' needs and our commitment to responsible governance," said Margaret Magruder, County Commissioner. "We are dedicated to making this vision a reality."

The plan is structured around key initiatives and action items designed to advance the county’s mission and achieve the goals outlined by the Strategic Planning Committee. The adoption also marks the formation of a Strategic Plan Implementation Team, which will be responsible for turning the plan’s initiatives into action. This team, along with designated subcommittees, will oversee the ongoing implementation of the plan and ensure that the county meets its goals in the coming years.

# # #

ABOUT COLUMBIA COUNTY
Columbia County, established in 1854, is nestled in northwest Oregon, just 30 minutes from Portland. The County boasts the longest stretch of the Columbia River in Oregon, with 62 miles of shoreline. Historically rooted in fishing, water transportation, and lumber, Columbia County has seen growth in industrialization while maintaining its agricultural heritage. It is home to Oregon's only two marine parks: Sand Island on the Columbia River and J.J. Collins Memorial Marine Park on the Multnomah Channel. The County seat is St. Helens, situated at 42 feet above sea level, covering 657 square miles, with a population of over 53,000. For more information, visit www.columbiacountyor.gov.

2024 Suicide Prevention Month Proclamation.pdf

2024 Provider Appreciation Day Proclamation.pdf 

Columbia County hosted a media briefing yesterday afternoon to provide an update on the ongoing renovations and improvements to the John Gumm Building. The John Gumm Building will serve as Columbia County’s civic offices and the new home to the county’s administrative personnel, the Columbia Economic Team, the Small Business Development Center, and the Columbia County Museum.

The event featured speakers including Columbia County Commissioner Casey Garrett, St. Helens Mayor Rick Scholl, Paul Vogel, Executive Director of the Columbia Economic Team, and Brandon Sundeen, Vice President of the Columbia County Museum Association Board of Directors. Each speaker highlighted the importance of revitalizing the John Gumm School Building, a vital part of the downtown St. Helens National Historic District.

"The revitalization of the John Gumm Building is an investment in our community's future. It will bring economic opportunities, cultural enrichment, and accessibility to all residents and visitors," said Casey Garrett, Columbia County Commissioner. "Our goal is to create a vibrant, welcoming hub that serves as a source of pride for our community and supports our growing needs."

The project to enhance the John Gumm Building is part of an inclusive plan to improve the building’s quality, appearance, and energy efficiency. This will return a public landmark to community use while addressing facility needs. As Columbia County continues to grow, the need to reallocate and expand its facilities has become imperative.

Instead of constructing new buildings, the county purchased the historical John Gumm Building from a private party, revitalizing it as an inviting, accessible, multi-purpose cultural and public service center. Acquired in August 2021 after years of disuse and decline, the building is undergoing significant exterior and interior improvements. This is to allow occupation, provide ADA accessibility, and offer an appropriate complement of services. 

The upgrades include full window and roof enhancements, structural repairs to the walls to mitigate future damage, and repairing and restoring the arch and structural columns at the entrance. Accessibility ramps and elevators are being incorporated to ensure all visitors can access the Columbia County Museum, event space, and county offices.

"This project will benefit our residents, visitors, organizations, and businesses across the county and state by improving access to public, economic, historical, and cultural services," said Commissioner Garrett. "It creates opportunities for growth and engagement while preserving a building of historical significance that anchors a Nationally Recognized Historic District, safeguarding a local landmark for future generations."

The John Gumm Building revitalization demonstrates Columbia County's commitment to its heritage and future. By blending historical preservation with community revitalization, the county will ensure that this iconic landmark remains a focal point of civic and cultural activities for decades to come.

For more information on the John Gumm Building Renovation and Improvement Project, visit https://www.columbiacountyor.gov/JohnGumm.

# # #

About Columbia County

Columbia County is a scenic and culturally rich area located in northern Oregon. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, lush forests, rolling hills, and proximity to the Columbia River. The county is home to vibrant communities and a diverse economy fueled by manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism. With a strong commitment to preserving its historic sites and cultural landmarks, the region boasts a rich history and heritage. Both residents and visitors enjoy a high quality of life, with access to outdoor recreation, educational opportunities, and a warm, welcoming community.

Columbia County voters are set to make a crucial decision in the upcoming May election: the continuation of a Columbia County Jail Levy. This ballot measure plays a pivotal role in maintaining the safety and security of our community. The existing jail levy, set to expire this year, has been a cornerstone of our safety initiatives. The jail relies on the community's support to maintain effective operations. Preserving the Jail Levy would raise property owners' taxes by $0.29, from $0.58 to $0.87 per $1,000 of assessed property value, allowing the county to continue operating the jail in the manner that residents have come to expect.

This is not the first time that voters have faced this decision. Initially approved in 2014 and renewed in 2017 and 2020, the jail levy reflects the community's dedication to fostering a safe environment. Operational costs for the jail have significantly increased, more than doubling in the last four years. Unforeseen challenges during the pandemic, such as reduced bed rentals by the U.S. Marshals Service and increased food and medical expenses, have added to these financial pressures. Despite these challenges, a reactive maintenance strategy (addressing equipment issues as they arise) and prudent fiscal practices have postponed this increase for as long as possible.

"We appreciate the trust voters have shown in the Sheriff’s Office through their support of jail operations levies since 2014. The Command Staff team at CCSO remains dedicated to conserving funds," said Brian Pixley, Columbia County Sheriff. "However, the jail has experienced continually rising costs in recent years, making an increase in the levy necessary.”

By approving the expanded levy, voters will be making an investment in our community's collective safety and security. It ensures that our families, friends, and neighbors will continue to feel protected in their neighborhoods.

"We cannot compromise on public safety," emphasizes Margaret Magruder, Columbia County Commissioner. " The levy increase is not about adding extras; it's about maintaining the level of operation that our residents have come to expect from the jail and continuing to provide the necessary services that keep our community safe."

# # #

The Columbia County Board of Commissioners is proud to promote National Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Supervision Week, held annually during the third full calendar week of July. Specifically, we would like to thank the hard-working staff of Columbia County's Community Justice Department. These individuals leave their homes and families daily to perform their essential duties, knowing the risks they face while on the job. 

“Our Community Justice Department is on the front lines, building meaningful relationships, which for some individuals, are the first relationships towards a new start,” said Kellie Jo Smith, Columbia County Commissioner. “We, as a community, cannot thank them enough.”

While it is fitting to honor the Community Justice Department's staff during this time, our appreciation is not limited to just one week per year; we extend our thanks to these dedicated individuals each and every day. Please join us as we honor Columbia County's community corrections professionals and those nationwide who perform their work selflessly, away from the public eye, to ensure our communities are safe.

The county's Parks, Forests, and Recreation Department is proud to announce that the Crown Z trail is now a part of the National Trails System, a network of more than 1,300 national recreation trails located in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. On June 3, the federal government officially designated the Crown Z Trail a National Recreation Trail (NRT). NRTs are existing land-based and water-based trails that provide close-to-home recreation opportunities on Federal, State, and local lands. The NRT designation is granted to some of the country's highest-caliber trails that provide close-to-home recreation opportunities and the benefits of spending time outdoors. 

The Crown Z Trail, also known as the Crown Zellerbach Trail and CZ Trail, is a nearly 25-mile long, primarily gravel-packed trail connecting the towns of Scappoose and Vernonia. The former logging trail that runs through rural areas of Columbia County starts in Scappoose on the Multnomah Channel at Chapman Landing. The trail primarily follows the Portland Southwestern Railroad route through the forested areas of Columbia County to Vernonia Lake, connecting to the Banks-Vernonia State Trail.

"It's exciting that the Crown Z Trail and our communities, by extension, are being recognized as excellent recreational destinations," says Casey Garrett, Columbia County Commissioner. "The Crown Z Trail offers hiking, cycling, horseback riding, and other recreational opportunities. It is an outstanding addition to the national network of trails."

Walking, hiking, horseback riding, or biking are all options at various points. You will find multiple trailheads along this scenic, nearly 25-mile trail, from Chapman Landing in Scappoose to Anderson Park in Vernonia. In addition, certain trailheads offer parking and picnic areas, public restrooms, and bicycle repair stations for visitors to use at their leisure.

Visit https://sites.google.com/colcomuseum.org/crownz-trail to learn more about the Crown Z Trail.

BEFORE THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

FOR COLUMBIA COUNTY, OREGON

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PUBLICATION

In the Matter of the Rate Adjustments for Food, Pool, and Lodging Licenses and Services in Columbia County.

1. The Board of County Commissioners will hold a hybrid public hearing on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, at or after 10:00 a.m. from the Commissioners Meeting Room, Room 310, at the County Courthouse, 230 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR. To join the meeting virtually, please log in to https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/357054141. United States (Toll-Free): 1 866 899 4679 Access Code: 357-054-141
2. The purpose of this hearing is to consider the proposed 8% rate increase for food, pool, and lodging licenses and services for residents and businesses in Columbia County, Oregon, effective July 1, 2023. The proposed fee schedule will also include new fees for replacement food handler cards, and a fee for hourly environmental health consultation with a specified 1-hour minimum and remove fees for separate seasonal event temporary restaurant licenses and operation review for seasonal licenses and replace with a single combined fee and remove fee for food hander classroom instruction. The proposed fee schedule is available on the County’s website at: www.columbiacountyor.gov/departments/BoardofCommissionersOffice/Hearings.
3. This is a public hearing. Interested parties may appear and be heard. Columbia County does not discriminate based on disability and will provide reasonable accommodations in accordance with the County's ADA Policy. To request accommodations or to review the County's ADA Policy, please contact the Board of Commissioners' Office at 503-397-4322.
4. For additional information regarding the proposed rate adjustments, please contact Jaime Aanensen, Public Health Director, at 503-397-7232 or jaime.aanensen@columbiacountyor.gov

Dated this 1st Day of June 2023

FOR THE BOARD OF COUNTY

COMMISSIONERS

COLUMBIA COUNTY, OREGON

BY: Jacyn Normine

Jacyn Normine,

Board Office Administrator

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE for PUBLICATION

CHRONICLE, please publish in your June 7, 2023, EDITION

Columbia County Public information, please publish to the County’s website.

Columbia County's General Services Department raised the "Big Flag" today in preparation for Memorial Day weekend. The big flag is a high-wind, commercial-grade nylon flag measuring 50 feet by 30 feet and weighing over 40 pounds. In good weather, it takes a minimum of three General Services team members to raise or lower the big flag safely. 

Community members have asked the county why the big flag does not fly year-round. Partially this is due to winter weather. Large flags wear quickly in strong winds, fraying and tattering more rapidly than smaller flags. Rain worsens the situation since wet flags snap with even more force under high wind loads. Most importantly, the county does not use the big flag during the winter because rain and strong winds make it extremely difficult for county employees to raise or lower the flag safely.

The county does not fly the big flag at half-staff for the same reason: safety. "While we want to respect the importance of properly displaying our flags, securing the big flag at half-staff is incredibly difficult and unsafe," said Columbia County General Services Director Riley Baker. "We want to ensure everyone remains safe and can enjoy the holiday weekend." 

The county's official flag flies year-round in the courtyard at the front of the old courthouse. The county's official flag is flown at half-staff when the nation or state is in mourning, to mark a national tragedy, or in observance of Memorial Day or other National Day of Remembrance. The big flag is flown from the large flagpole behind the courthouse from Memorial Day through Veteran's Day, weather permitting.

In Columbia County, the service areas of our rural agencies often overlap. Informal events, like the Joint City-County Dinner, allow elected officials and key staff to meet and interact with state, county, city, and local agency leadership. The open discussion environment promotes the sharing of information. Attendees can provide project updates, describe the opportunities and constraints in their area, and describe the solutions and strategies they have employed to maximize finite resources.

Former Senator Johnson, former Senator Armitage, former Columbia County Commissioner Henry Heimuller, and Nate Stice, Regional Solutions Coordinator for the Governor's Regional Solutions Team, attended yesterday's dinner and participated in the conversation, providing additional insights and perspective.

"Joint meetings allow local officials to get to know one another and help to build the trust that forms stronger working relationships," says Columbia County Commissioner Casey Garrett. "Working together, we can more effectively improve the lives of families in Columbia County."

Joint City-County Dinners will be scheduled once per quarter. The City of St. Helens will host the next dinner event.

Earlier this week, the Oregon Court of Appeals issued a ruling that voids the county's Second Amendment Sanctuary Ordinance. The appeals court found that the ordinance was preempted by state law and instructed the county to follow state gun laws. 

"County voters voiced their desire for an ordinance to help better protect our Second Amendment rights," stated County Commissioner Casey Garrett. "The Second Amendment Sanctuary Ordinance was adopted by the Columbia County Board of Commissioners to implement the intent of the voters. But the reality is that counties don't necessarily have the authority to make those decisions."

In 2018 and 2020 voters approved two measures, the Second Amendment Preservation Ordinance and the Second Amendment Sanctuary Ordinance, respectively. The Columbia County Board of Commissioners combined the two measures into a single ordinance which was adopted in March of 2021. Several important legal questions about the authority of a county governing body to enact the Second Amendment Sanctuary Ordinance were raised. To gain clarity and avoid costly future litigation, the county filed a "Petition for Validation of Local Government Action" with the Columbia County Circuit Court. This authorized the court to conduct a judicial examination of the ordinance and provide a judgment as to its legality. When the judge decided not to perform a judicial review, the county filed an appeal to request a review of the decision not to provide clarity on the legal questions surrounding the ordinance.

"We asked the Court of Appeals to determine if it was lawful for the local court to refuse to provide a judgment as to the legality of the ordinance," said Sarah Hanson, County Counsel. "The county was not seeking to invalidate the ordinance, only to get answers to the many legal questions raised by it."

Commissioners recognized for their support of the county's National Guard and Reserve members

Recently, the County Commissioners were presented with a Patriot Award by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an office of the Department of Defense. Army Reserve Major Chris Carey, the Director of the County's Emergency Management Department, nominated Commissioners Margaret Magruder, Casey Garrett, and Henry Heimuller for the award to thank them for their extraordinary support of his commitment to the Reserves. 

"Since 9/11, the role of the Reserve has grown far beyond one weekend a month and two weeks a year. During the last year, I completed two weeks of annual training in South Korea, attended a pre-company command course at Fort Knox, and attended airborne school at Fort Benning," said Carey. "This would not have been possible without supportive employers: Columbia County and my supervisors, the County Commissioners."

ESGR was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve Component Service members and their civilian employers and to assist in resolving conflicts arising from an employee's military commitment. ESGR has served our country for over 50 years, fostering a culture in which all employers support and value the employment and military service of members of the National Guard and Reserve in the United States. These citizen warriors could not defend and protect us at home and abroad without the continued promise of meaningful civilian employment for themselves and their families. 

"One of the goals of the ESGR program is to develop and promote a culture in which all American employers support and value the military service of their employees," said Ashley Taylor, ESGR volunteer. "ESGR recognizes employers who support guard and reserve employees by granting Department of Defense awards."

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BEFORE THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

FOR COLUMBIA COUNTY 

2023 ANNUAL MEETING NOTICE

1. Notice is hereby given that the Columbia County Board of Commissioner will hold their regularly scheduled meetings every Wednesday, at or after 10:00 AM. These meetings will be held from the Columbia County Courthouse, 230 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR.  

https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/357054141 United States (Toll Free): 1 866 899 4679 Access Code: 357-054-141

2. Additionally, the Board will hold their regularly scheduled Work Sessions every Wednesday at or after 1:00 PM from the Columbia County Courthouse, 230 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR.

https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/357054141 United States (Toll Free): 1 866 899 4679 Access Code: 357-054-141.

3. Any changes and/or cancellations to this schedule will be noticed.

4. This is a public meeting except during the Executive Session.  Columbia County does not discriminate on the basis of disability and will provide reasonable accommodations in accordance with the County’s ADA Policy. To request accommodations or to review the County’s ADA Policy, please contact the Board of Commissioners Office at 503-397-4322.

Dated this 4^th day of January 2023

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS 

FOR COLUMBIA COUNTY, 

                                                                                          BY:  s/ Jacyn Normine

PUBLIC MEETING NOTICE

Spotlight News please publish in your January 6, 2023, addition.

The Chronicle please publish in your January 11, 2023, addition.

This notice will also be posted at www.columbiacountyor.gov 

Earlier this afternoon, Judge Michael Clarke swore in the four officials who won their elections last November. 

Commissioner Kellie Jo Smith was elected for her first term to Position 1. A third generation resident of Columbia County, she has more than a decade of public service experience. She is a business owner, school board member, and a previous reserve deputy sheriff. As a County Commissioner, her focus will be on connecting our communities, economic growth, public safety, creating opportunities for our youth, and protecting civil rights and liberties. 

"I am grateful to the citizens of Columbia County for giving me this opportunity," Smith said. "I will maintain open lines of communication and continue to foster, support, and advocate for our community and its residents."

Debbie Klug was elected for her first full term as County Clerk. Appointed as the County Clerk in July 2021, following the passing of longtime clerk Betty Huser, Debbie has been a part of the Columbia County Clerk's Office for more than 16 years.

Andrea Jurkiewicz was elected for her first full term as County Assessor. She originally joined the County Assessor's Office in 2005 and was appointed to the County Assessor's role in July 2021.

Brian Pixley retained his position as County Sheriff. He began his career with the Sheriff's Office in 2003 and has amassed nearly 20 years of local law enforcement experience. He is committed to protecting, serving, and strengthening our community. This will be Brian's second term as Columbia County Sheriff. 

"It is truly an honor to serve as Columbia County's Sheriff," Pixley said. "I will continue identifying ways to increase public trust, build goodwill, and ensure that your property and rights are protected."

Please join us in congratulating and welcoming our new and continuing officials.

# # #

The Board of Columbia County Commissioners presented several Columbia County employees with years of service awards earlier this month.

Employees become eligible for Years of Service Awards upon spending five years with the County. Awards are issued to acknowledge each additional five-year increment of service. The Board of Commissioners recognized employees with 15, 20, 25, and 30 years of service during this year’s ceremonies. 

The Commissioners presented 2022 Service Awards to these nine employees:

• Road Department
  • Jeff Peterson, Sign Maintenance Worker, 30 Years
  • Ryan Allen, Crew Leadworker, 25 Years
  • Mike Dunning, Road Maintenance Worker II, 20 Years
  • Eric Grau, Crew Leadworker, 15 Years
• IT Department
  • Jim Sychowski, Network Administrator, 20 Years
• Assessor’s Office
  • Robin Gallo, GIS Program Manager, 15 Years
  • Becky Magnuson, Assessment Clerk III, 15 Years
• Community Justice, Juvenile Department
  • Liz Ring, Juvenile Probation Officer II, 15 Years
• Land Development Services
  • Teresa Golson, Office Coordinator, 15 Years

 “It is important that we recognize these employees and their commitment. These awards represent a total of 170 years of service devoted to our community,” said Commissioner Henry Heimuller. “Please join me in thanking these individuals for their dedication to the citizens of Columbia County.”

# # #

The National Weather Service (NWS) has forecast that a winter storm event will affect Columbia County over the next few days. The NWS expects this storm event to deliver snow, freezing rain, and ice accumulation to the County. These conditions will make travel hazardous. 

With an abundance of concern for the safety of our employees, Columbia County will be closing its non-emergency facilities at 3:00 p.m. today, Thursday, December 22^nd. County offices will also be closed tomorrow, Friday the 23rd. Offices will reopen after the holiday observance on Tuesday, December 27th. 

The Columbia County Public Works Department is actively monitoring county road conditions and is ready to clear storm-impacted roadways. If you see a downed tree blocking a County road, please call 503-397-5090 during business hours. After hours, please report obstructed County roads to Non-Emergency Dispatch at 503-397-1521. If you see a downed power line or are experiencing an emergency, dial 9-1-1.

The County reminds motorists to drive appropriately for the road conditions and to give snowplows plenty of room to clear the roads safely. In addition, we caution drivers to remain alert during and immediately following winter weather, to use caution while driving, and to only travel if absolutely necessary.

Please monitor Columbia County’s website and social media pages for updates as this event unfolds. Also, be sure to sign up to receive weather and community alerts on your cell phone or email from the Columbia Alert Network (C.A.N.). https://www.columbia911.com/general/page/columbia-alert-network-can

# # # #

Senator Betsy Johnson donated a United States flag to Columbia County earlier today. The flag was the backdrop at Senator Johnson's election night watch party last month.

"This is a giant flag, so it was important to me to find a size-appropriate flagpole where it can be properly flown and honored," stated Senator Johnson. The flag that she gifted to the county measures 15 feet by 25 feet. And it is even more meaningful that Betsy, whose parents both served in World War II, is presenting this majestic flag to the county today, National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. "We will continue to honor the men and women of the greatest generation. Their service and sacrifices during World War II ensured our freedoms."

Senator Johnson presented the flag to the Columbia County Board of Commissioners during a public, outdoor ceremony. The ceremony concluded with the unfurling and hoisting of the flag to the top of the flagpole, which stands behind the Courthouse Annex Building. A multiorganizational group of volunteers raised the flag during the ceremony. Personnel from the Columbia County Sheriff's Office, the Saint Helens Police Department, Columbia River Fire and Rescue, CCSO Search and Rescue, and Columbia County's Emergency Management Department were present.

Columbia County Commissioner Henry Heimuller said, "We are overwhelmed by Betsy's generosity. We accept this flag as a symbol of Betsy's commitment to the people of Columbia County and all of Oregon. It will warm a special place in our hearts each time we see it."

Betsy Johnson was born in Bend, raised in Redmond, and served in the Oregon House and Senate for over 20 years. She has a well-earned reputation as a no-nonsense maverick willing to buck convention.

# # # #

Last month the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department awarded two grants to Columbia County through the Local Government Grant Opportunity program. 

Hudson-Parcher Park is a popular location for camping, little league practices, and playground trips. The county will receive $42,500 to assist in upgrading the three play areas at the park. The playground on the south end, near the baseball fields, will have the existing swings and spring bouncer toys replaced and an ADA-accessible play structure added. The playground at the center of the park will get new swings and spring bouncers. New swings, spring bouncers, and a merry-go-round will be installed at the north-end playground. In addition, the county will add ADA-compliant ground coverings, borders, and ramps to all the play areas. 

The county will receive an additional $74,887 to upgrade the Holce Trailhead on the Crown Z Trail. The plan includes an ADA-accessible paved parking lot, a vault toilet, interpretative signage, and a covered picnic area. In addition, the county will pave a portion of the trail that is currently gravel and very steep. 

"The Board of Commissioners would like to congratulate the General Services Department for their work to secure these grants," said Columbia County Commissioner Casey Garrett. "They work hard to find grant opportunities like these that help fund improvements to the local parks and trails enjoyed by residents and visitors alike."

###

The Board of County Commissioners is proclaiming October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month to call on the community to help prevent domestic violence and abuse. In addition, the county encourages participation in local educational and awareness events as part of a nationwide observance to help end these crimes.

Anyone can be a victim of domestic violence, regardless of age, race, gender, sexual orientation, faith, or class. Domestic violence is a pattern of behavior in any relationship used to gain or maintain power and control over a partner or family. This includes any behaviors that frighten, intimidate, terrorize, manipulate, hurt, humiliate, blame, injure, or wound someone. It can occur within various relationships, including people who are married, living together, or dating. Domestic violence victims may also include a child, relative, or any other household member.

Domestic violence is a pervasive, often life-threatening crime affecting millions of individuals across our nation. Nationally, an average of 3 women are killed daily by a former or current intimate partner. In addition, children exposed to violence are more likely to attempt suicide, abuse drugs and alcohol, run away from home, become victims of human trafficking, and commit sexual assault crimes.

"Everyone deserves relationships free from domestic violence," said Columbia County Commissioner Henry Heimuller. "We are asking everyone to join us in speaking out against abuse and taking a stand against domestic violence."

SAFE of Columbia County works towards the prevention and elimination of domestic violence. SAFE provides confidential advocacy and emergency shelter for survivors of sexual assault, stalking, and domestic violence. They operate a 24/7 crisis helpline (503-397-6161) with staff and/or volunteers trained in crisis intervention and knowledge of community resources. The hotline provides a nonjudgmental response to callers' needs for information on domestic violence, safety planning, and appropriate referrals. All of SAFE's services are free and available to anyone affected by violence.

In Columbia County, SAFE serves an average of 800 unduplicated people each year through advocacy, shelter, support, and educational groups. Before COVID, when SAFE provided prevention programming in the schools, they served an additional 1400 children and youth. 

Domestic and sexual violence severely impact not only victims but the entire fabric of society. If you are in an abusive relationship, the following resources can help:

• SAFE 24-Hour Help Line: 503-397-6161
• Your healthcare provider
• A local women's shelter or crisis center
• A counseling or mental health center
• A local court

If the event of an emergency, call 911, the County Sheriff's office, or your local law enforcement agency. Remember, no one deserves to be abused.

Last month, Columbia County District Attorney Jeff Auxier concluded that police officers were justified in their decision to use deadly force while responding to a disturbance at Grumpy's Towing in Scappoose, Oregon, on March 31, 2022. 

The District Attorney's report reveals that Columbia County Sheriff Brian Pixley encountered an armed suspect, Michael Stockton, upon arriving at the scene. Sheriff Pixley observed the suspect attempting to make his way to the rear of the building and ordered Mr. Stockton to "come back." However, instead of complying with commands, the suspect drew his weapons and fired at Sheriff Pixley before exiting the garage. After leaving the building and moving to the rear of the property, the suspect again fired at the Sheriff. Sheriff Pixley returned fire, striking Mr. Stockton, who continued to fire at the Sheriff. When Oregon State Police (OSP) Troopers arrived on the scene, the suspect was still firing his weapon. OSP Sergeant Chad Drew fired back at Mr. Stockton, hitting him several times. Troopers and Sheriff Pixley continuously administered CPR to Mr. Stockton until paramedics arrived.

"Sheriff Pixley and Sergeant Drew selflessly risked their lives to protect our community. I commend them for their quick thinking and brave actions," said Columbia County Commissioner Margaret Magruder.

Today, at the grand opening of the new Columbia Pacific Food Bank facility, Columbia County commissioners presented the food bank with the county's annual donation of $5,000.

"The Columbia Pacific Food Bank does a tremendous job of working closely with the local food pantries and charitable organizations to help our neighbors struggling with hunger. We are pleased that this donation will help them continue to help families," said Columbia County Commissioner Henry Heimuller.

Columbia Pacific Food Bank is Columbia County's regional food bank, delivering food to 38 food pantries, meal programs, and produce distribution points throughout the county. They also operate the Barbara Bullis H.E.L.P. Food Pantry in St. Helens.

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The Board of Commissioners has proclaimed the Month of April as Volunteer Month in Columbia County and encourages all county residents to join in the observation. "During Volunteer Month, we recognize the importance of our local volunteers and celebrate the significant contributions of our neighbors who graciously give back to the community," said Columbia County Commissioner Henry Heimuller. "We hope that in sharing our appreciation for the extraordinary contributions made by these generous residents, we can inspire and motivate others in our county to volunteer their time and talents to worthy causes."

Here are just a few of the many organizations whose volunteers help keep Columbia County great:

Columbia County Fair Board

The Fair Board, its subcommittees, 4-H clubs, and literally dozens of other volunteer groups and organizations come together each year to make the annual Columbia County Fair a success and help to maintain the fairgrounds on an ongoing basis.

The Fair Board's seven-member committee seeks sponsors, organizes vendors, plans exhibits and displays, and schedules entertainers for the annual county fair. The Columbia County Fair, a five-day event held each July, draws up to 25,000 people. If you are interested in serving on any of county's advisory committees, please complete an online application at https://www.columbiacountyor.gov/advisory-committee-membership-application.

NOTS Boating Club & Columbia River Yachting Association (CRYA)

Totaling over 2,000 members in 19 member clubs, NOTS and CRYA work to develop new recreational boating facilities while promoting safe boating and water safety activities in Columbia County.

Members from NOTS and CRYA direct an annual clearing and cleanup of the JJ Collins Park on Coon Island. Additionally, they have donated several thousand dollars for projects in Columbia County, including the Gilbert River docks restoration and rebuilding of tables at JJ Collins Park. For more information on the NOTS Boating Club, visit their website at http://www.notsboatingclub.com.

Oregon Equestrian Trails (OET) Columbia County Chapter

OET is a non-profit organization that celebrated its 50th Anniversary last year. Members are dedicated to building, promoting, preserving, and maintaining horse camps and trails in Columbia County and Oregon, for equestrians and hikers.

Since 2016, OET has coordinated the efforts of approximately 70 people to help with trail maintenance at Camp Wilkerson, Dibblee Point Park, and the Crown Z Trail; and the construction of the horse camp at Camp Wilkerson. OET paid for and built 5 of the six corral units and built a camp host site for the horse campground. In addition, OET purchased and built the picnic shelter and an ADA ramp for riders with special accessibility needs. OET meets at 7:00 pm on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at the Moose Family Center in Warren. For more information on OET, call Bob Rice at 503-366-3736.

Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP)

RSVP serves the dual purpose of engaging persons 55 and older in volunteering services to meet critical community needs and providing a high-quality experience that will enrich the lives of the volunteers.

RSVP volunteers perform essential front desk duties at the courthouse by answering questions, providing directions, and generally helping ease the stress that community members sometimes feel when visiting the courthouse to conduct business. Contact Monica Cade at 888-538-5457 for information on volunteering opportunities.

The Columbia County Board of Commissioners would like to thank all the volunteers who share their time and efforts in giving back to our community.

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The Board of Commissioners proclaims April 2022 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) in Columbia County. SAAM calls attention to the fact that sexual violence is widespread, educates individuals on how to prevent it, and bolsters prevention efforts throughout the year.

Rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment harm our communities, and statistics show one in five women and one in 67 men will be raped at some point in their lives. Child sexual abuse prevention must be a priority to confront the reality that one in six boys and one in four girls will experience sexual assault before age 18. One in five women and one in 16 men are sexually assaulted during their time in college.

"Sexual assault is a tragic reality whose victims often suffer in silence," said Columbia County Commissioner Margaret Magruder. "This month is to build our community's knowledge on how to speak out, intervene when we see harmful behaviors, and promote safety and respect. I want to encourage everyone to use this opportunity to consider how they can be a part of the solution."

If you are a victim or survivor of sexual violence, there is a national network of community-based and local organizations that support the needs of sexual assault survivors. While the specific services available vary by location, the following resources can help:

• National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-4673
• Local police
• Your health care provider
• A local women's shelter or crisis center
• A counseling or mental health center
• A local court

In an emergency, call 911, your local emergency number, or the County Sherriff's office. Remember, no one deserves to be abused.

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https://www.columbiacountyor.gov/media/Board/BOC/Proclamations/Proclamation Sexual Assault Awareness Month 2022.pdf

The Board of Commissioners would like to recognize the fine work and accomplishments of the Columbia County Land Use Compliance Specialists. Land Use Compliance is a branch of Land Development Services and is responsible for protecting health and safety by ensuring compliance with county regulations.

The county’s Land Use Compliance Specialists investigate, respond to, and process complaints involving alleged code violations and assist technical staff in enforcing solid waste, land use, and on-site septic ordinances. Some of the types of complaints that the specialists investigate are: solid waste that is a threat to public health or safety, unauthorized land uses or failure to comply with land use conditions of approval, stormwater and erosion control standards, and subsurface sewage disposal systems.

"We also investigate complaints to the DumpStoppers Program to determine who may have dumped the waste. We clean up the site if it is small enough, but if it's a large dumpsite we coordinate with the Community Justice Adult Division to have a work crew clean up the site," said Columbia County Land Use Compliance Specialist David Carlberg. DumpStoppers investigates reports of garbage dumping and abandoned boats, trailers, RVs, and vehicles.

From 2018 until 2020, Land Use Compliance Specialists managed 150 active cases. Last year 61 new land use compliance claims were registered, 111 new DumpStopper reports were received, and 156 cases were resolved.

One of the group’s biggest achievements in 2021 was the utilization of Ordinance No. 2016-6 to establish a procedure for Accelerating the Redemption Period for Waste and Abandonment on a property located in Scappoose that has been in the compliance system as an active case since 2018. The proper application of this ordinance required that the Land Use Compliance team work seamlessly with several county departments including County Counsel, Finance and Taxation, General Services, Public Works, Land Development Services, and the Board of Commissioners Office.

The Land Use Compliance unit can be reached by phone at 503-397-7230, by fax at 503-366-3902, or by emailing code-enforcement@columbiacountyor.gov. To report illegal dumping in our county, call the DumpStoppers hotline at 503-397-7229.

Columbia County, in partnership with the Columbia Economic Team (CET), recently distributed nearly $500k in grants to county businesses and non-profit organizations to assist with recovery and resilience in response to economic impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic. The grant dollars were funded by the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which was received by the county when it was identified as high-risk last summer.

In September, the county chose to contract with CET again to administer the grant application and disbursement process. The Board of County Commissioners directed CET and County staff to concentrate on making the program more accessible to non-profit organizations that were ineligible for most of the $1.9 million in grants CET distributed last year. As a direct result of modified program guidelines and application criteria, a major marketing push, and targeted communications, nearly double the number of non-profit organizations applied for and received grants this year. Including these latest 2021 grants, nearly $2.5 million in small business and organizational grants has been administered by Columbia Economic Team in 2020 and 2021, nearly $1.5 million from the Board of Commissioners.

The Columbia Economic Team processed a total of 102 applications, many of which were submitted by new applicants. In addition to helping eligible organizations successfully complete the application process, CET spent numerous hours working with the county's Board, Counsel, and Finance Department to ensure that the available funds were distributed by the December 31 deadline.

Of the 85 organizations that received funding awards: 56 are small businesses, 40 of which are women-owned companies, and 29 are non-profits. Non-profits received a total of $271,950 and $222,950 was distributed to small business recipients. The allocations were based on "human" resources: employee or volunteer counts for businesses and non-profits, respectively.

In reporting on program completion to the Board of Commissioners, Paul Vogel, Executive Director of the Economic Team thanked the Board for its focus on the non-profit community. “The economic impacts of the pandemic have affected everyone. Non-profits, however, have been hit with a triple- and maybe quadruple- whammy. The necessary lockdowns, restrictions, and distancing affected them too, donations and funding from financially struggling supporters took a hit, the economic impacts caused a dramatic increase in the need for their services, and in large part they weren’t eligible for most COVID-related grants,” Vogel said. “These organizations, their services, and their place in our communities are vital,” Vogel added. “The Commissioners’ very intentional effort to assist them generated significant response and produced substantial results.”

Columbia County's advisory boards, committees, and commissions provide community perspective to the Board of Commissioners on important local issues. Serving on an advisory group offers county residents the opportunity to learn about the county's work and make recommendations on county programs, services, and policies.

Each advisory group has a specific purpose and is governed by operating statutes. Terms run from one to six years, depending on the committee or commission and circumstances. Vacancies are generally filled at the end of the calendar and fiscal year unless an opening becomes available during the year.

Columbia County currently has openings on the following advisory groups:

• Jail Operating Citizens Advisory Committee
• Ambulance Service Advisory Committee
• CZ Trail Advisory Committee
• Local Public Safety Coordinating Council
• Solid Waste Advisory Committee
• Traffic Safety Committee
• Citizen Transportation Advisory Committee
• Civil Service Commission

Visit us online at columbiacountyor.gov/advisory-committees for detailed information about these advisory groups. If you are interested in serving on any of our advisory groups, please submit an online application at columbiacountyor.gov/advisory-committee-membership-application.

Our community benefits from the participation of hundreds of individuals volunteering their time and knowledge. Get involved, share your skills, and help shape our community. Join a Columbia County advisory group.

PUBLIC NOTICE is given to all persons in Columbia County that the Board of County Commissioners will hold a virtual public hearing on Wednesday, January 19, 2022, at or after 10:00 a.m., at the Columbia County Courthouse, 230 Strand Street, St. Helens, Oregon.

The purpose of the hearing is to consider the applications by NEXT Renewable Fuels Oregon, LLC, for a renewable fuel facility at Port Westward.

https://bit.ly/3JccjnD

Columbia County has entered into a 24-month lease agreement with American Property Management. "This agreement paves the way for the temporary relocation of the Land Development Services (LDS) department and associated Planning, Building, Code Compliance, and On-Site Septic services," says Robert Wheeldon, Columbia County's interim Planning Manager.

Land Development Services will move on December 27th from its current location in the County Courthouse Annex building at 230 Strand Street to a temporary location in the Port Business Center at 445 Port Avenue. Applications will be accepted and inspections will continue to be completed throughout the transition. Additional limited services will be available on the main floor of the Annex building during the transition. LDS’s full services will resume no later than Friday, January 7th at the Port Avenue address. 

"The temporary move is a necessary step in the planned renovations of the County Courthouse Annex and John Gumm buildings, ultimately allowing the County to position its service departments in a manner that better serves the community," says Casey Garrett, Columbia County Commissioner.

Building renovations will enable the Public Health Department to relocate to the lower level of the Annex building, move County administrative functions to the John Gumm building, and consolidate counter-driven services to the main floor of the Courthouse. "Grouping all of our counter functions on the main floor of the Courthouse will not only provide ease of access to these services, but it will also improve the level of customer service that we can deliver to County residents," says Commissioner Garrett.

Columbia County's Building Official Suzie Dahl says, "Minimizing any inconvenience to the public while still ensuring that the department can offer its many important services has been one of the top concerns during the design phase of this project."

For more information on the move or services available from Land Development Services, please call 503-397-1501.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

August 11, 2021 

Columbia County Joins in Celebrating the Scappoose Centennial 

ST. HELENS, Oregon - The Columbia County Board of Commissioners would like to invite all Columbia County residents to help us commemorate the Scappoose Centennial. The City of Scappoose will be hosting a celebration that will include vendor booths, music, and several exciting events at both Veteran's and Heritage parks. The Scappoose Centennial Celebration will be held on Friday and Saturday, August 13th and 14th, 2021.

While you're at Veteran's Park, be sure to stop by our booth to see what's happening on the Crown Z Trail: information kiosks that share the trail's rich history, improved and updated trailhead locations, signage, and more! Then head over to Heritage Park and check out the historical display which includes a slide show developed by Les Waters, Curator for the Columbia County Museum Association. You will get to see lots of historical photos, articles, and facts that comprise the Crown Z Trail experience.

The Commissioners would like to extend a special "Thank You!" to the Columbia County Museum Association and the Crown Z Trail Committee for their invaluable assistance in conserving and communicating the fascinating history of the Crown Z Trail.

For specific information concerning Scappoose Centennial Celebration times and events, please visit http://www.Scappoose100.com.

You can find more information about the Columbia County Museum Association on their website at http://www.colcomuseum.org/.

(Columbia County, Oregon) – The Columbia County Second Amendment Sanctuary Ordinance, recently adopted by the Columbia County Board of Commissioners to implement the intent of the voters as demonstrated by the passage of the “Second Amendment Preservation Ordinance” in 2018 and the “Second Amendment Sanctuary Ordinance” in 2020, has now been passed to Judge Ted Grove for ‘Judicial Examination and Judgement of the Court as to the Regularity, Legality, Validity and Effect’ of the ordinance via a petition for validation of local government action.  

Under ORS 33.710, the Columbia County Circuit Court is authorized to conduct an examination of the ordinance and to provide a judgement as to the legality of the authority of a county governing body to enact the Second Amendment Sanctuary Ordinance.  

The County filed the petition to clear up several important legal questions about what firearm regulations can be enforced in Columbia County. Through this process, Judge Grove can provide clarity on the matter.  

“To be clear, the County is not seeking to invalidate the Ordinance, only to get answers to the many legal questions raised by it,” County Counsel Sarah Hanson said. “As an example, Oregon law generally does not permit the County to regulate within the City limits without consent. We have asked the Court to inform us whether the cites have consented.  

Hanson said this and many other questions arising from the two voter-passed initiatives and the Ordinance implementing them put the County and its residents in legal “limbo,” so the Ordinance has been put before the Court for answers. The statutory process will enable the County to get binding decisions from the Court which will allow the Ordinance to move forward in a form that is legal. It will provide the Sheriff and District Attorney with certainty as to what can and cannot be prosecuted. It will also safeguard the County in the event other legal matters, like lawsuits, are raised against the Ordinance in the future.  

“This proceeding will also inform residents of the County what firearm laws do apply to them so that no one is unwittingly found to violate a federal or state firearm law that they believe doesn’t apply because of the initiative measures,” Hanson said. “We don’t think anyone would want that result.”  

The County expects a briefing schedule to be approved by the Court soon and hopes to have a hearing before the end of June, 2021. 

(Columbia County, Oregon) – The Columbia County Board of Commissioners is now welcoming letters of interest and resumes for appointment to the open positions of County Assessor and County Clerk, due by 5 p.m. on May 15, 2021.

With the upcoming retirement of Assessor Sue Martin and the passing of Clerk Betty Huser prior to the completion of their elected terms, the County is opening the application process for these positions to all qualified, interested parties.

Minimum qualifications for each position are as follows: 

Assessor:

· Citizen of the United States

· Elector under Oregon Constitution

· Resident for one year preceding the next election

· Qualified as a registered appraiser or is an appraiser trainee under ORS 308.015 and becomes registered appraiser within two years of taking office and has two years of office and accounting experience including in office management activities, or has two years of full time employment in an office of the County Assessor (not necessarily Columbia County). The Department of Revenue (DOR) has a certificate of compliance application and questionnaire to determine if this criteria is met. If qualified, the DOR will issue a certificate of compliance. (To be submitted after submission of letter of interest and resume.)

Clerk:

· Citizen of the United States

· Elector under the Oregon Constitution

· Resident for one year preceding the next election

For more information about these positions, please visit the Columbia County Human Resources website at https://www.columbiacountyor.gov/departments/HumanResources.

Please e-mail your letter of interest and resume to Columbia County Human Resources Director Jeanine Hohn at Jeanine.hohn@columbiacountyor.gov by 5 p.m. on May 15, 2021.

CORRECTION – In this release, we printed that the next election to fill the County Clerk position was in November 2023. The election will actually take place in November of 2022, for a term of four years. The person appointed to fill the vacancy will serve until the beginning of January 2023. 

(Columbia County, Oregon) – With great sadness, the Board of Commissioners of Columbia County regrets to announce the passing of Elizabeth “Betty” Huser, who has served as Columbia County Clerk for 32 years, on Monday, April 26. 

Huser was born in Cumberland, Wisconsin near the Great Lakes, where her family had a cabin she loved to visit. Her family later moved to Scappoose where she graduated from Scappoose High School and began work for an insurance company in Portland. 

Huser served as Mayor of Scappoose from 1979 to 1988 and was president of the Oregon Mayor Association in 1985. Upon her retirement from that position, former County Clerk Reta Kerry asked her to accept the appointment of County Clerk, and Huser has filled that role since. She was also a past president of the Columbia County League of Women Voters, past president of Scappoose Kiwanis, and was involved with the Scappoose Girl Scouts.  

On Columbia County’s County Clerk website, Huser wrote in welcome, “I am honored that you have elected me to this important position since 1989. It has been my pleasure to issue marriage licenses, manage county elections and provide passports, among my other various duties.” 

On Tuesday, April 27, the Board of Commissioners met with County Counsel to discuss how to fill Huser’s role as an elected official. The next election to fill the County Clerk position will be held in November of 2023, for a term of four years. The person appointed to fill the vacancy will serve until the beginning of January 2024. 

With that in mind, the Board is opening an application process for those interested in the position. To qualify for the position, you must be a citizen of the United States, an elector under the Oregon Constitution, and a resident of Columbia County for at least one year. Interested parties should email a letter of interest and their resume to Human Resources Director Jeanine Hohn, at Jeanine.hohn@columbiacountyor.gov. 

In the interim, Chief Deputy Don Clack will continue to perform the official acts and duties of the office. 

Multiple outbreaks linked to rise in cases could shift Columbia County back to High Risk

(Columbia County, Oregon) – Columbia County recently linked several COVID-19 cases to recent gatherings and activities in North County. If this trend continues, it could shift Columbia County back into the High Risk Category and lead to stricter capacity restrictions and gathering limits.

Residents should be advised that cases are also trending up across the state. The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) COVID-19 Weekly Report, released on Thursday, April 1, reported 2,456 new daily cases of COVID-19 during the week of Monday, March 22 through Sunday, March 28. That represents a 28% increase from the previous week.

Given the rise in new cases, Columbia County Public Health would like to remind our communities that it is important for us to continue to pull together and take the necessary precautionary measures that will help us prevent additional outbreaks and further rise in cases. Increased local spread not only endangers our vulnerable citizens, it disrupts businesses and schools. Community members can prevent further cases by continuing to wear our masks while socializing, frequent hand washing, and maintaining physical distance.  

Most importantly, we can continue to follow the recommendations of limiting the amount of people who gather socially in one place. In counties classified as Moderate Risk, indoor social and at-home gatherings should be limited to a maximum of eight people from no more than two households. Outdoor social and at-home gatherings should be limited to a maximum of ten people. 

Even for those who are already vaccinated, it is still important to follow these recommendations while in public or at work. For more information on how to protect yourself and others when you’ve been vaccinated, visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s website here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/fully-vaccinated.html

In addition to setting risk levels based on recent case counts and test positivity, residents can stay informed by reviewing the OHA’s weekly outbreak report here: https://www.oregon.gov/oha/covid19/Documents/DataReports/Weekly-Outbreak-COVID-19-Report.pdf

(Columbia County, Oregon) – The Columbia County Second Amendment Sanctuary Ordinance, recently adopted by the Columbia County Board of Commissioners to implement the intent of the voters as demonstrated by the passage of the “Second Amendment Preservation Ordinance” in 2018 and the “Second Amendment Sanctuary Ordinance” in 2020, will now move on to Validation proceedings in Columbia County Circuit Court.

In passing the Ordinance, many provisions of both Measures 5-270 and 5-278 remain the same. The Ordinance amended the Second Amendment Sanctuary Ordinance to incorporate provisions of the Second Amendment Preservation Ordinance where it differed from the Second Amendment Sanctuary Ordinance. The new Ordinance’s adoption kept it consistent with County practice and corrected scrivener errors in the Acts while preserving the intent of the voters. The Second Amendment Preservation Ordinance was then repealed.

The passage of the two initiatives and subsequent adopted Ordinance raises several important legal questions about what firearm regulations can be enforced in Columbia County, according to County Counsel Sarah Hanson. To gain clarity from the Court about the matter, the County filed a “Petition for Validation of Local Government Action,” which authorizes the circuit court to conduct a judicial examination of the Ordinance and provide a judgment of the court as to its regularity and legality.

“This will allow the Court to tell us whether the County can actually decline to enforce certain state laws, and it will tell us how to abide by the will of the voters to the extent that we can,” Hanson said. “It will also safeguard the County in the event we’re ever sued by an organization, for example - a gun safety group, due to the measures.”

Notice and summons to the County and all electors or interested persons will be posted once a week for the next three weeks. Any interested person will have ten days from the date of the final publication to appear and contest the regularity, legality, validity, and effect of the Ordinance.

“As Columbia County Sheriff, it is my responsibility to ensure the rights of all of our citizens are protected, including the 2nd Amendment right to bear arms,” Sheriff Brian Pixley said. “I look forward to the validation process so we can move forward with the will of the voters”.