News & Notes — Government
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This page last updated: Tuesday, September 18, 2007
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USDA Offers Conservation Incentive Program September 5, 2007 If you own or operate rural property used for agricultural purposes, the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) offers several conservation programs to assist with treatment of natural resource concerns. One of these is called the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). EQIP is offered to agricultural operators on private land who produce food and fiber crops and/or raise livestock. It provides technical assistance and incentive payments to operators that treat natural resource problems on their land with approved conservation practices. NRCS takes applications all year long, however, the cut-off date for 2008 funding has been set for October 5, 2007. Applications must be received by NRCS by this date to be considered for 2008 funding. EQIP may be a means of installing a variety of conservation practices to treat resource issues like water quality, soil erosion and wildlife habitat issues. Conservation practices such as hardened areas for wintering livestock, manure storage, tree plantings along streams, pasture improvements such as water developments and cross fencing are just a few. The local NRCS office is located in St. Helens at 2514 Sykes Road. You can call us at 503-397-4555. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in its programs on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, disability, political beliefs and marital or familial status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s Target Center at 202-720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a complaint, write the Secretary of Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, D.C. 20250 or call 1-800-245-6340 (voice) or (202) 720-1127 (TDD). USDA is an equal employment opportunity employer.
Ethics panel dismisses complaints against PUD The Daily News By Janine Manny Sep 18, 2007
The Oregon Government Ethics Commission on Friday dismissed complaints against members of the Clatskanie PUD Board for executive sessions that critics say violated the state's open meetings law. The closed sessions in early February led to the board putting General Manager Greg Booth on administrative leave. At the time, the board also hired an investigator to look into unspecified allegations against Booth that then-board president Lori Piercy said were brought to her. On Feb. 20, Deborah Steel Hazen, the editor and publisher of The Clatskanie Chief, filed a complaint with the commission, alleging the board met improperly in executive session. The Clatskanie Chief is the city's weekly newspaper and the PUD's designated newspaper of record, publishing its legal notices. Commission investigator Donald Crabtree recommended dismissal because he did not believe the could prove there was a violation, his report to the commission said. According to Crabtree's report, the PUD board held two executive sessions to discuss complaints about Booth's performance as general manager. Booth requested that his performance be reviewed in open session. But Piercy cited state law allowing the board to meet in executive session to discuss litigation or litigation likely to be filed. Hazens' complaint said the board's agenda cited personnel issues as the reason for the executive session. Crabtree's report also said that Stacey Mark, an attorney hired by Piercy, said she neglected to advise Piercy to cite attorney-client privilege to justify meeting in executive session. After the Feb. 2 executive session, board members Piercy, Keith Sutfin and Rod Ollila voted to put Booth on leave, while Don Hooper and Merle Gillespie voted against the move. Piercy and Sutfin were recalled by voters in March, and a recall election for Ollila is scheduled for Sept. 25. Hazen said Monday that she filed the complaint against Piercy, Ollila and Sutfin -- the three who voted to go into those executive sessions -- and did not name Gillespie or Hooper, although the commission listed all five board members in the report. "When you read (Crabtree's) report, Stacey Marks admits to making a mistake and the report states that things were discussed in executive session that should not have been discussed," Hazen said Monday. "It's hardly a ringing endorsement of the actions of those three board members." She said Oregon has "no teeth" when it comes to enforcing public meetings law. "People have no recourse when a local governing board is not acting in their best interest other than recall," Hazen said. Booth was reinstated in April. In July, the PUD board -- with two new members -- cleared him of any wrongdoing and settled a suit he had brought against the utility. Piercy could not be reached for comment Monday. "The ethics complaint, like the recall, was politically motivated by those who did not want the truth to be known," Piercy said two weeks ago, after learning that the investigator was recommending dismissal. "We did nothing that warranted the ethics complaint or the recall. I encourage Clatskanie PUD customers to push for release (of the investigator's report on Booth) and to monitor the current board's actions carefully." The investigation into Booth has not been made public, and officials have denied Daily News requests for a copy.
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GSPC Staff Recommends Dismissal of Complaint Against PUD BoardThe Clatskanie Chief Sept. 6, 2007-09-05 After months of studying the issue, the Oregon Government Standards and Practices Commission (GSPC) staff is recommending that the complaint filed against the Clatskanie People's Utility District (PUD) board of directors in February be dismissed. The GSPC will consider that recommendation at its meeting Sept. 14 in Salem. The formal complaint was filed by Deborah Steele Hazen, publisher and editor of The Clatskanie Chief on Feb. 15, in the wake of the controversy surrounding the Feb. 2nd meeting, which was called on short notice, and which resulted in PUD general manager Greg Booth being put on administrative leave and an investigation of unspecified allegations against him. The controversy ultimately ended in Booth's reinstatement and exoneration at a cost of approximately $300,000 in attorney's fees to the PUD. In her original letter to the GSPC, Hazen cited an alleged illegal meeting between three board members (Lori Piercy and Keith Sutfin, who were both recalled in a March 22nd election, and Rod Ollila, who is the subject of a recall for which ballots are scheduled to go into the mail later this week), irregularities in the calling of the Feb. 2nd meeting, failure to move the meeting to a location that would accommodate the large crowd that attended, and several violations of PUD policies by the threesome of Piercy, Sutfin and Ollila. However, GSPC executive director Ronald A. Bersin responded that the agency, formally known as the ethics commission, was authorized to investigate only possible executive session violations. After consulting with Portland attorney Jack Orchard, who serves as legal counsel on public meeting issues for the Oregon Newspaper Publishers Association, Hazen filed her complaint based on two executive sessions called by the three-member majority on Feb. 2 and Feb. 8, on the basis of "litigation or litigation likely to be filed." There was no pending litigation at that time. After a preliminary review of the situation, the GSPC staff recommended in May that a full investigation be conducted into the allegations of executive session violations. That investigation resulted in the recommendation to dismiss the complaint, according to a letter to Hazen dated Aug. 20. While the GSPC also investigated PUD directors Merle Gillespie and Don Hooper, the report acknowledges that they both "spoke and voted in opposition to holding the executive sessions." The GSPC investigation synopsis also stated: "On the advice of counsel (Stacey Mark, the attorney hired in late January by Piercy), two executive sessions were convened in February 2007 by the board of directors to discuss issues related to complaints about and the performance of the general manager. The presiding officer cited the statutory authority to enter executive sessions for the discussion of litigation or litigation likely to be filed {ORS 192.660(2)(h)}. The evidence indicates that there was no pending litigation. The board's legal counsel has indicated that ORS 192.660(2)(f) should have been included as a statutory authority as the board received legal advice in the executive sessions that was privileged attorney-client communication and exempt by law from public inspection." The report states that in the cases of both the Feb. 2 and Feb 8 executive sessions Mark "indicated that she made a mistake in not having the board also cite ORS 192.660(2)(f)." That citation allows the consideration of "information or records that are exempt by law from public inspection." "While there is evidence that the board of directors met in executive sessions and discussed topics not allowed by ORS 192.660(2), the evidence does not reach the preponderance threshold required to prevail in a contested case proceeding," the synopsis states. The report also states that "information suggests that the discussion (in executive session) may have ranged beyond the discussion necessary to provide oral legal advice. "In reviewing the information provided, it appears to the GSPC staff that the CPUD Board of Directors may have misused the authority given in ORS 192.660(2) when they met in executive sessions. Information from a witness indicated the board of directors discussed policies and procedures. The discussions occurred in the context of addressing complaints against the general manager. The discussions included inquiries about how the board president received the complaints, whether the complaints were written, and why other board members were not informed. There was a general discussion of how to arrange for an investigation and the investigative procedure. There was a discussion of whether the employees, who were complainants, followed district procedures in submitting the complaints. "In the 2/8/07 discussion, the complaints were discussed with more specificity than in the public meetings. The general manager was excluded from this discussion even though he asked for a public meeting discussion of his performance. Discussion in a public meeting is normally required, if requested by the person discussed. "On the other hand, CPUD legal counsel (Mark, who was paid a total of $42,114 for her services to the PUD board between late January and April 17) indicated that oral legal advice was provided during the two executive sessions and the advice was privileged attorney-client communication. The inclusion of 'information' exempt from public inspection in ORS 192.660(2)(f) presents the possibility that the issues Ms. Mark discussed could be interpreted as being exempt from disclosure as attorney-client communication. "If the GSPC made a preliminary finding that Mr. Ollila (identical wording is used at this point in the GSPC documents on all of the PUD directors who were in office in February) violated ORS 192.660, the commission would have the burden to prove the finding with a preponderance of evidence. With the word information included along with records in ORS 192.660(2)(f), there is sufficient ambiguity in the statute to make it difficult to reach the threshold for a preponderance of evidence in this matter. That is because information could arguably include oral discussions of information claimed to be privileged attorney-client communication. Although the witness statements and other information raise some doubt as to whether the discussions were limited to oral legal advice protected as attorney-client communication, CPUD counsel believed that the discussions in executive sessions were limited to privileged communication between the attorney and clients. "It is the GSPC staff opinion that the evidence in this matter is insufficient to meet the threshold of a preponderance of evidence that there was a violation of ORS 192.660(2)."
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Clatskanie Council Approves PW Improvement AmendmentThe Clatskanie Chief by Ruth E. Howard August 23, 2007 An announcement by City Manager Preston Polasek of his resignation, business related to Port Westward, approval of funding for continued transportation services for area residents, and other topics and reports highlighted the Aug. 15th Clatskanie City Council meeting. Polasek announced his resignation after being officially hired as city manager for the city of Warrenton at its city commission meeting Aug. 14. Polasek said he would "officially" give his 30-day notice to the city within the week and assume the Warrenton post in September. According to the Columbia Press of Warrenton, Polasek will earn $81,000 a year in his new position. He has been paid $75,972 per year in Clatskanie. At a special council meeting on Monday, Aug. 20, a consensus was made to contact persons for the interim position and hopefully present a name for "full council" approval at its Sept 5th meeting. It was also suggested that the League of Oregon Cities and its resources be utilized to expeditate the permanent recruitment process and not burden city staff, Mayor Diane Pohl told the Chief Tuesday. Selected in October 2001, Polasek became Clatskanie's city manager in November 2001, filling the vacancy left by the retirement of Larry Cole in September 2001. Gil Gramson, now mayor of Warrenton, served as an interim manager between Cole and Polasek. At Wednesday's meeting, Polasek said he accepted the Warrenton post "with a lot of mixed feelings. It's very easy to look forward to Warrenton, but it's really been hard to break away. Clatskanie has been wonderful...I can't say enough of how great these last six years have been." Polasek will move to the Warrenton area with his wife, Brenda, and sons, Alex and Levi. "I'd like to thank Preston for the years of service," said Councilor Ron Puzey. You have taken us a long ways in the right direction. I'm happy for your new position, but sad to see you go." Echoing Puzey's sentiments, Councilor Bertie Smith wished Polasek "the very best in your new position - I think it will be a great adventure for you." "We wish you well, Preston," commented Councilor Kathy Engel. Mayor Diane Pohl said that due to Polasek's work while in office, the city will continue to move forward in a right direction. "Congratulations on that upward movement..we wish you all the best." In light of his resignation, Polasek asked the council to appoint Dave True, Clatskanie Public Works director, to replace him as a city representative on the Clatskanie Drainage District Board. True was selected by the council to serve on the drainage district board. Council Adopts Amendment for Port Westward Work After a short presentation by Columbia County Commissioner Tony Hyde, the council unanimously approved the fourth amendment to an intergovernmental agreement between the county and the city of Clatskanie for Port Westward road improvements. Hyde said the amendment was a "minor" one and was necessary due to increased costs, such as for asphalt and oil, in the phase 1A and 1B improvements, the latter of which is underway. With the estimated cost of the improvements increasing from, $7,955,818 to $8,332,818, the city's share of the repayment of a loan from the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department (OECDD) increased proportionately from $2,864,094 to $2,999,814. Hyde said he did not anticipate any "financial hardship" because of the increase, with a "more than sufficient tax increment" to pay off the improvement project since the new PGE (Portland General Electric) generating plant is finished and the Cascade Grain ethanol plant is about 60 percent complete. He said other potential developers are continuing to be recruited as well. "Some very hot projects are in the hopper," commented Hyde, noting that the Port of St. Helens, which manages the Port Westward industrial site, is "competing actively against the Port of Portland" for the siting of new projects. "The current (Port of St. Helens) commission is really top notch," said Hyde, praising it as a "highly-functioning" commission with "really good staff." "It's being recognized by potential suitors." Potential developers note and appreciate the teamwork and availability of the county, city and port and that all three entities are "on the same page" and moving forward, said Mayor Pohl, who serves on a Port Westward "front team," comprised of city, county and port representatives. The Port Westward team recently spent two days with a potential developer. "They were very impressed with the community, site and teamwork...It was a great experience - they were very pleased." Hyde also informed the council of a recent proposal by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) of three alternatives for the management of 2.5 million acres in Western Oregon, including 2.1 million acres managed under the federal O&C Act, of which 4000 acres in Columbia County are affected. Hyde stated that BLM's second alternative is considered the "preferred alternative." It has received the support of the Association of O&C Counties, and most of the 18 Western Oregon O&C counties, as well. If the "preferred alternative" is approved in mid-2008, it could ensure funding of law enforcement and road improvements in the county, said Hyde. Columbia County will be passing a resolution of support, said Hyde, adding that a resolution also would be sent to the council for its support as "every city council" and "every county in the state," are being asked to support the proposal in a 90-day comment period. According to an Association of O&C Counties press release, when Oregon & California (O&C) Railroad lands were taken back by the federal government, and off of county tax rolls, the government enacted the O&C Act to ensure continued funding for the 18 Oregon counties, by management of timber harvests. In the 1980s the harvest and subsequent funding to the counties were reduced by environmental concerns and the federal Northwest Forest Plan. The federal government then enacted "safety-net legislation," allowing the "counties to continue to operate, with substitute payments made in the absence of forest management activity," stated the association's press release. The "safety-net legislation" is due to expire later this year. Of the 2.1 million acres managed by BLM under the O&C Act, 50 percent of timber receipts go to the 18 western Oregon counties for their use in funding of such services as libraries, law enforcement, public health services, roads and others. Hyde stated that Columbia County has primarily used its funding for law enforcement and roads. If the BLM's "preferred alternative" was adopted, approximately 727 million board feet would be perpetually produced, "replacing about 94 percent of the safety net payments that will end in the near future," said the association's press release. Loss of "potential taxes is a killer for counties like Columbia County," commented Mayor Pohl. Transportation Funding Approved After hearing from Janet Wright, county economic development director, the council approved a request of $4500 for continued funding of public transportation in the Clatskanie area on the Columbia County Rider. A vehicle and driver, based at the Clatskanie Senior Center, serve the Clatskanie/Westport area by offering "curb-to-curb" service as needed by elderly and disabled residents, as well as a regular transit service for the general public from Clatskanie to Rainier, Longview/Kelso and St. Helens, with a connection to Portland, at least two days a week. A new service, that began Monday, Aug. 20, provides transport four times a day, three days a week in an inter-city route from Clatskanie through Rainier to the Longview/Kelso area. By request of the Columbia County Assessor's Office, the council dedicated two small city-owned lots as public right-of-way. The parcels were acquired earlier this year by the city in relation to the Port Westward road improvements and include a small parcel, approximately 32 square feet at the corner of NE 5th Street and Geraldine Drive, formerly owned by Rick and Donna Bernash, and a larger parcel, approximately 4,924 square feet, at the corner of Van and NE 5th streets, formerly owned by Henry "Bob" and Rosemary Trass. Council Chooses Projects for STIP Application Based on a staff recommendation, the council selected two projects from its 2007 "Needs & Issues" list to submit for selection in the Oregon Department of Transportation's (ODOT) 2010-2013 Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). Selected projects are: 1. replacement of the Swedetown overpass and widening of Highway 30 from Van Street east to the passing lanes going out of town, and, 2. pedestrian access along Highway 47. Ideas discussed for the second project were installation of a stairway from the end of Upper Orchard Street to BelAir Drive and a bicycle/pedestrian path from neighborhoods adjacent to Highway 47 to the downtown area. The council suggested that the language for the Highway 47 application be "sufficiently broad enough to allow for flexibility" as more than one option could be considered in providing bicycle and/or pedestrian access from the neighborhoods along Highway 47 to the downtown area. In related discussion, Polasek reported on a recent meeting with an ODOT project team on local Highway 30 improvements, to include widening of the Clatskanie River Bridge, expansion of the highway west of Van Street, ingress and egress updates and a complete overlay of the highway through town. Although the traffic commission would still need to approve the funding in October, ODOT anticipates a project schedule could include public outreach in March 2008, design in 2009 and construction in 2010, said Polasek. True will serve on the project design team. In other business, the council endorsed an application for the sale of wine and beer for off-premises consumption by Janet Berg of Wine & Beer World, 235 W. Columbia River Highway, to the Oregon Liquor Control Commission. Berg owns the Clatskanie Liquor Store, at the same address. Hoover Reports on FBI Training, Citizens Academy "It was absolutely fantastic, I enjoyed myself tremendously," said Clatskanie Police Chief Marvin Hoover, in a report to the council, referring to the "premier instruction" he received in the 10-week FBI Academy he attended earlier this year near Washington, D.C. "Thank you very much for supporting it." A member of the first academy group to ever have 300 students, Chief Hoover said he took 12 courses, including those on counter-terrorism, narcotics, behavioral science, legal law, physical fitness and forensics. He said he also enjoyed seeing local sights on the weekends. "I appreciate the fact that you did go," commented Mayor Pohl. "I know our community is going to benefit with the knowledge you brought back." Chief Hoover announced that the Clatskanie department will offer its first-ever citizens academy and residents of Clatskanie, Westport and the surrounding areas are invited to attend the 10 week, no-cost training The academy begins Tuesday, Sept. 11, and continues weekly on Tuesdays from 6-9 p.m., with a location to be announced. A graduation on Saturday, Nov. 10, concludes the training. Interested persons, 18 and older, are invited to pick up an application as soon as possible from the police station. A maximum of 20 persons can attend and if enough interest is shown, future academies may be scheduled. Clatskanie Officer Joe Harrison is the primary instructor, with other trainers to include those from the district attorney's office, state police, the Columbia County Sheriff's Office, CENT (Columbia Enforcement Narcotics Team) and the Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District. Topics will include police history, patrol functions, criminal law, investigations, evidence collections, processing a crime scene - a hands-on demonstration, drug enforcement, drug culture and recognition, defensive tactics, traffic law, vehicle codes, driving under the influence (DUI) enforcement and field trips to the 9-1-1 dispatch center and Columbia County Jail. The purpose of the academy is to inform citizens "what we do and why we do it," said Chief Hoover. Hoover reported that he and Clatskanie Together Coalition (CTC) Director Robin Fouché would be flying to Detroit on Aug. 20 for three days of classroom instruction related to the CTC's receipt of a federal Department of Justice "Weed and Seed" grant of $1 million over a five-year period. The grant is earmarked for overtime pay of city and county law enforcement for warrant and "probable cause" sweeps, expansion of after-school and Clatskanie Recreation Center programs, training for rec center staff and adult volunteers, continued funding of the prevention/intervention specialist at Clatskanie Middle/High School and support of the police department's K9 program. Mayor Pohl said the awarding of the grant to the CTC was "pretty outstanding," considering Clatskanie was one of only 30 U.S. cities to receive it. "Robin Fouché and Janine Salisbury are to be congratulated greatly...it's a wonderful thing. Everybody in Oregon knows about it, including the governor's office." "It will continue to make our community a safe place." Polasek said that he, Mayor Pohl and Lieutenant Terry Moss of the St. Helens Police Department would conduct candidate interviews, starting Tuesday, Aug. 21, to fill the Clatskanie police officer position recently vacated by Officer Jose Castilleja, who was hired by the St. Helens department. It was reported that the sewer treatment outfall project, one of this year's capital improvement projects, was completed "well under $10,000," although $20,000 was budgeted. Polasek praised True, the public works crew and summer help for their efforts during the busy summer.
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Wu disagrees with those who want to impeach The Daily News by Kelsey Ford Aug 18, 2007
U.S. Rep. David Wu, D-Ore., discussed impeachment, the war in Iraq and the presidential primaries at a full Rainier town hall meeting Saturday, Some came to the meeting to tell Wu it is time to impeach President Bush. There were a group of five people who arrived wearing orange vests - the color of impeachment - and carrying signs that said 'Impeach Now.' Wu said that impeachment was a serious issue, but one that he did not see grounds for at the moment. "From my perspective, if there are impeachable offensives, that's something to be pursued," Wu said. "Disagreements don't rise to impeachable offenses. I'd caution with impeachment ... it's something akin to war. You don't know where it's going to lead you. It has a tendency to take all the air out of a room." Wu also discussed the government's need to shift its balance of power. "It is my belief that we're at an all-time high of executive power," he said. "There have been other times in this country when other branches have taken the lead. These periods generally don't last. I think Congress has failed to exert oversight over the past six years." There was a resounding, "Thank you!" throughout the room. "I think we're in a phase now of pulling back that authority," Wu finished. From there, the topic shifted to the war in Iraq, which caused some tension throughout the room. "I've strongly supported an approach to funding our military that would require our troops to be rested and retrained here at home before being sent back into combat," Wu said in response to concern for the troops' health. Wu disagreed with a suggestion that the best way to end the war was to cut funding. He quickly responded by saying that never, in the history of the United States, had troop funding been cut during a time of war. "You hired me to do a job and it sometimes means, in order to discharge properly, the things you want done right now just aren't doable," he said. Wu made it clear he never supported going into Iraq, but said withdrawing now would not be smart. "It's a lot easier to get a war started than to get a war wound-down," he said. Someone asked Wu what he thought of the early primary presidential race. "I think there are a lot of people in this room who want the elections to be yesterday," Wu said. The room responded with appreciative laughter. In a more serious tone, Wu agreed that it was a long lead-up to the elections, but, "As bad as the current process is, it's a whole sight better than the way it was." And when asked if he had a favorite in the current race: "Uh, no," he responded, to the laughter of the crowd.
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Port Westward Rail, Contracts, Airpark Discussed by POSHThe Clatskanie Chief by Deborah Steele Hazen August 16, 2007 An update on the rail project at the Port Westward Energy Park near Clatskanie, a motion related to the contract of senior executive Peter Williamson, and a report on development near the Scappoose Airpark highlighted a regular meeting of the Port of St. Helens (POSH) board of commissioners Wednesday, Aug. 8. Executive Director Gerald Meyer reported on the progress of the rail loop at Port Westward to serve the Cascade Grain ethanol plant and other potential new industries on the approximately 900-acre industrial park on the Columbia River north of Clatskanie. "We have a very tight timeline to get a rail project built for Cascade Grain and the port," Meyer told the commission. The Cascade Grain ethanol plant, which will receive its raw material - Midwest corn - by unit train, plans to be operational in the first quarter of 2008. "We have funding that's on the line," including a $2 million ConnectOregon grant and a $3 million loan from the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department (OECDD), Meyer explained. The project has gone out for bids, with bid opening set for Aug. 29. A special meeting will probably be necessary on that day, Meyer said, for the commission to award the bids. Meyer noted that POSH staff had been in negotiations with a rail supplier for the necessary 136 pound rail and turn-outs. While "it would mean going to a specific supplier and 'sole sourcing' it," it would be at a lower than expected price. "We have a 15-day window with their price," Meyer said, underscoring the "very tight timeline." POSH commission president Robert Keyser urged the other commissioners to address any questions to Meyer as soon as possible. "We can keep you informed in the meantime," Meyer said, and will "bring this back to you at the next scheduled meeting" on Wednesday, Aug. 22, at 7 p.m. at the POSH office in Columbia City. Williamson's Contract Discussed Keyser noted that, with his election as commission president, he had asked Commissioner Colleen DeShazer to serve as the board's liaison to senior executive and former long-time POSH executive director Peter Williamson. Under a contract agreed upon last fall, Williamson is drawing 60 percent of his salary from POSH and 40 percent from the Regional Maritime Security Coalition for which he is serving as a loaned executive. The contract is due to expire next summer. "As a board we've been neglectful in supervising," Commissioner Cliff Tetrault said. "I'd like to see us implement the contract as written," he said, noting that the contract calls for Williamson to report directly to the commission at the monthly morning meeting. While it was pointed out that now-retired POSH commission president Paul Pulliam had indicated to Williamson that "he didn't have to come to meetings," the present commissioners expressed the desire for more communication with Williamson, and clarification of his role with the port. Keyser stated that when Williamson's current contract had been written last fall, the port was thinking that it would have an interim manager for a few months before hiring a new executive director. With Meyer quickly transitioning from interim manager to executive director, he "needs to be the point person representing the port," Keyser said. With Williamson representing POSH at several organizations, it is causing confusion regarding port leadership. "Can we expect an accounting from him?" asked Tetrault. "We're paying $6700 per month and this is what we got." Tetrault noted that the commission had received five written reports and Williamson had attended one commission meeting since his current contract began. "I want to know what meetings he attended - times and places, what was discussed." Going back to the beginning of the current contract last October, "what has he done for us?" Tetrault asked. "As the one who was asked to administrate that...I take the responsibility," Keyser said. "I had a lofty goal of integrating" the port leadership. "It did not work." "It became increasingly important that we have one leader and that it be our new leader," said Keyser. "We've got to step up and make a decision," said Commissioner Mike Avent. "Are we going to continue to pay for services that aren't being performed or let him go?" "We have language already that says we can assign more duties," responded Tetrault. "I just want fair duty." Seeking "clear direction as liaison," DeShazer asked the rest of the commission whether they wanted her to "implement the contract" or "if you want me to terminate." At the end of the lengthy discussion regarding Williamson, Tetrault moved to authorize the liaison (DeShazer) to implement the existing contract, "look at other duties that may be assigned and other duties that may be beneficial to the port, ask for a monthly accounting of time, explore options to more effectively manage the contract or terminate the contract." The motion was seconded by Avent, and carried unanimously. Property Near Scappoose Airpark Eyed for Training Site After granting Meyer the authority to issue construction permit rights of entry when necessary - including for the Sierra Pacific Communities aviation-related development planned on property adjacent to the Scappoose Airpark - the commission heard a report from Ed Freeman of Sierra Pacific. Freeman said that he is in the process of organizing a groundbreaking ceremony later this month and is hoping to have a taxi-way constructed by that time for two of the aviation-related businesses planned. He also reported that the city of Portland is interested in the portion of the former Meyer property, farthest away from the airport for a regional law enforcement safety training facility - similar to that which had been proposed by the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) several years ago. The facility would be used year-round, would include a driving course, shooting range, canine instruction facility, off-road vehicle areas, etc. It would create a significant number of jobs, but would require a zone change. "Our chances of being successful with the LCDC (Land Conservation and Development Commission) are greatly enhanced for a regional safety training facility," Freeman told the commission. Tom Fuller, who serves as a consultant for the Columbia County Develpment Agency and POSH, reported he had a meeting with the Portland Police bureau regarding the proposed facility, and "they are exceptionally serious. This could be a remarkable piece of economic development for the community." The POSH commission expressed positive interest in the idea. Consultant Contract, Commissioner Compensation Studied On another topic, the commission approved a "scope of work" agreement with Shiels Obletz Johnsen Inc. between the Columbia County Development Agency, which oversees the Port Westward Urban Renewal District, and POSH. Commissioner Tetrault suggested that the wording of the agreement include that POSH be "kept fully informed" of pertinent information. Fuller, who is Shiels Obletz Johnsen's consultant for the county and port, explained that "there is a difference of opinion in how actively I interface with the two parties. This language (the language in the proposed scope of work) reflects where the county wants to be." Fuller suggested that there could be an agreement between him and POSH that they wanted more detailed and frequent communication. Commissioner Avent moved to try to change the language in the agreement to include some wording about keeping the port commission fully informed, but "if it becomes a big thing," to go back to the original language. The motion giving Meyer the option to make the decision regarding the language in the agreement passed unanimously. Commissioner DeShazer brought up the topic of commissioner compensation, and suggested removing the $250 per month cap. POSH policy allows for commissioners to be compensated at the rate of $50 per day when they are on port business, plus expenses. However, DeShazer noted, that often-times commissioners volunteer more than five days per month. It was moved by DeShazer, seconded by Tetrault, to lift the cap. Avent amended the motion that the compensation should "never go over $1,000," although it was agreed that it was doubtful it would exceed $500. The amendment passed and the motion carried.
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Ex-Rainier official lands in St. Helens The Daily News by Janine Manny Aug 10, 2007 The St. Helens City Council has hired Chad Olsen as interim city administrator. Olsen, 48, was the Rainier city administrator for 11 years until he resigned May 1. He replaces Brian Little, who retired July 1 as city administrator for St. Helens. Olsen said the St. Helens City Council is considering revamping its form of government, and a committee will recommend changes to the city's charter that may be presented to voters. "Because they are not sure if they'll be going with a council/manager, a council/administrator or a commissioner form of government, they decided to hire an interim administrator when Brian left instead of doing a search for a replacement," Olsen said. "My job is to keep the city on an even keel during the interim period." Olsen said the position is expected to last six to nine months. He is commuting from Rainier. "I'm doing great. I love it here. It's a nice organization," Olsen said. "It's a relaxing drive in the morning." St. Helens has a population of about 12,000 and a staff of 70 city employees. Olsen said the city's annual budget is about $40 million. Several Rainier residents complained in April that the Rainier City Council was "railroading" Olsen into resigning. Olsen never publicly said why he resigned, but a letter from his attorney to the Rainier City Council obtained by the Daily News through the Oregon open records law said Olsen was being harassed and intimidated by a council member. In the letter, Olsen's attorney, Jack Hoffman, said Olsen was willing to settle all claims against the councilman and the city for a severance package that included 12 months' pay and PERS (Public Employee Retirement System) benefits. He was making $66,000 annually when he stepped down. The council agreed to the severance package
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PUD Settles Lawsuit with Booth, Issues Statement on InvestigationThe Clatskanie Chief July 26, 2007-07-25 by Cynthia Edmonds The Clatskanie People's Utility District (PUD) board of directors agreed at its meeting July 18 to settle the lawsuit filed by General Manager Greg Booth, bringing to rest a saga that began almost six months ago. After Lori Piercy was elected PUD board chair on Jan. 24, a hastily-called meeting Feb. 2 resulted in Booth being placed on administrative leave by a 3-2 vote. By the same split vote, Piercy hired an attorney and an attorney/investigator to look into accusations Piercy said had been brought against Booth. Booth subsequently hired an attorney and filed a lawsuit asking to be reinstated and his attorney's fees paid. Following the investigation and the recall of Piercy and board vice chair Keith Sutfin in a March 20 special election, Booth was reinstated to the position of general manager on April 17. At its July 18th meeting, the board agreed in a 4-0 vote to pay Booth's attorney fees, totaling $25,800. Rod Ollila - who voted with Piercy and Sutfin in the actions taken in January, February and March - abstained, citing a conflict of interest, because Ollila was named individually in Booth's suit along with Piercy and Sutfin. The board released the following statement after a 5-0 vote: "The Clatskanie People's Utility District has experienced a difficult period over the last few months. This period began with a decision of the Board of Directors to place our General Manager, Greg Booth, on administrative leave and to initiate an investigation into certain concerns regarding management and operation of the utility. Mr. Booth then filed a lawsuit against the District asserting that the actions of the Board violated the Oregon Public Meetings Law. "These decisions were made and implemented by a split vote of the Board of Directors. Before completion of the investigation, two of the Board members that voted to take these actions were recalled by a majority vote of the customers in their respective districts. Following the recall, Steve Petersen and Bob Wiggins were appointed to the Board. "The new District Board is committed to working together with management and employees to fairly resolve any legitimate concerns, conclude this difficult chapter and re-establish the trust of the community in our utility. To that end, the new Board directed that the investigation be concluded at the earliest possible date. After review of the investigation results, the Board determined that no disciplinary action against Mr. Booth was warranted. After discussion with Mr. Booth in executive session, the Board unanimously rescinded the administrative leave, re-instated Mr. Booth and expressed its confidence in his ability to lead the District as the General Manager. "Today the Board announces another important step in concluding these matters. The Board and Mr. Booth have agreed to amicably settle the lawsuit brought by Mr. Booth against the District. "The Board sincerely regrets the disruption and division that its past actions may have caused within the utility and the community, and the impact on Mr. Booth and his family. The new Board has steadfastly tried to be deliberate and careful in respecting the privacy rights of all District employees and others who were interviewed in the investigation process. For this reason and also to protect the confidentiality of discussions with its attorneys, the Board has not released the investigation report. The Board believes that its actions in re-instating Mr. Booth with a vote of confidence was appropriate given the circumstances and results of the investigation. "The new Board is aware, however, that various unfounded allegations regarding Mr. Booth have circulated in the community. The Board would like to take the opportunity to publicly and finally address the allegations and put to rest some of the specific rumors that have come to light. "First, the District is in very sound financial condition thanks to the actions of the prior Board and management, under the leadership of Mr. Booth. The Board had found no cause for concern in connection with any financial actions or payments made by District management. There is no evidence of fraud or misappropriation of funds by Mr. Booth. "Second, the Board has been presented with no credible evidence that Mr. Booth engaged in the harassment of, or retaliation against any District employee, physical threats or violence in the workplace, destruction of personal property or that he provided false or misleading statements to the Board, employees or District customers. The Board is aware of no evidence indicating that Mr. Booth caused any unsafe conditions or engaged in unlawful favoritism at the PUD. The Board also found any allegation that Mr. Booth maintained an inappropriate relationship with another District employee to be completely unsubstantiated. "The new Board and Mr. Booth are working cooperatively to improve operations and the general working environment at the District going forward. The Board has engaged a respected consultant to assist the District in achieving certain goals, including resolving work conflicts among employees, and better defining the roles of the Board, management and employees. The Board and General Manager will also be redefining and communicating our strategic plan for the future. "These goals are not unique to the District. They are pursued in varying degrees by management and elected Boards in all successful public organizations. The new Board is committed to providing the General Manager with the tools necessary to establish and maintain a highly productive, safe and collegial culture within the District. "The Board wishes to express its deep appreciation to the District management and employees for their hard work and dedicated service to the District during this difficult time." Settlement Agreement As part of the settlement agreement, the Clatskanie PUD agreed to make payment to Booth in the amount of $25,800 for his attorney's fees. In consideration of this payment by the PUD, Booth agreed to dismiss the suit he filed against the the Clatskanie PUD and Piercy, Sutfin and Ollila. By accepting this agreement, Booth fully released and discharged the defendants and all related persons from all known or unknown issues relating to Booth's administrative leave, as outlined in the settlement agreement. The board expressed its hope that the resolution and statement will bring an end to the issue. To date, the costs of the investigation and lawyer fees involved in the administrative leave and investigation of Booth has totaled approximately $286,000. That figure does not include any legal work done in regard to the issue by the PUD's law firm of Cable Huston since May 31. Later in the meeting, Booth noted that the PUD had received a subpoena from the Government Standards and Practices Commission (GSPC) for the minutes and recordings of the Feb. 2 and 8 board meetings and executive sessions. The recording of the Feb. 2nd meeting was erased and was the topic of an inconclusive investigation by the Oregon Department of Justice. Booth confirmed to the Chief this week that he had complied with the GSPC request. The Clatskanie Chief had filed a complaint with the GSPC against Piercy, Sutfin and Ollila, alleging that the executive sessions held at the Feb. 2nd and Feb 8th meetings were illegal. The GSPC investigation is continuing. Bond Sale Planned for Port Westward Related Work Other issues on last Wednesday's board meeting included a presentation by financial advisor Alan Dashen on the issue of bond financing. The bonds would provide funds to upgrade the substation in Clatskanie, construct a new transmission line to the Port Westward Energy Park to serve Cascade Grain and other customers, construct a new Bradbury substation at Port Westward, a distribution system at the industrial site, and other related projects. Work is already underway on the Bradbury substation, and construction of the transmission line is expected to begin next week. Letters will be sent to Clatskanie area residents along the route. Bonds will be sold by Piper Jaffray and Company and advertised locally for district customers, explained Dashen. The bonds will mature over 20 years at a fixed interest rate and will be sold in two series at $8-9 million each, he said. Series A is tax-exempt but subject to the alternative minimum tax (AMT) and Series B is tax-exempt and bank qualified. The Clatskanie PUD will need to apply for bond insurance and draft a master declaration and resolution at the time of sale in order to explain what the district plans to do to pay back the bonds. A public hearing, to allow citizens to comment before the sale of bonds, will be scheduled during the Aug. 15 meeting. Also at this meeting, the board will need to authorize the purchase of bonds, and must make up and adopt a reimbursement resolution. The bonds will sell about Sept. 12 and Dashen asked to hold a special board meeting then for the board to vote on purchasing them. The board also approved Resolution 07-04 to establish a pole contact formula. The board voted 4-0 to authorize retroactively the Federal Communications Commission Appendix E-2 to all pole contacts within the district, effective Jan. 1, 2006. Board president Merle Gillespie abstained from voting due to a conflict of interest, as he works for a company involved with the resolution. The new pole contact formula will see a charge of $7.60 for all poles rather than the previous $12 for "for profit" customers, and $3 for "not for profit" customers. Booth commented that construction is ready to begin on projects approved by the board. A board workshop is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 7, at 7 p.m.
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24 parks, no crowds: Columbia County parks planner developing ideas to get more to use parks The Daily News by Janine Manny Jul 17, 2007 - 07:04:00 am PDT
Columbia County has 24 parks and forests for visitors to hike, ride, boat, fish, watch birds, picnic and camp. Trouble is, too few Columbia and Cowlitz county residents know about all of them, but Erika Owen is trying to do something about that. Owen, a parks planner with an 11-month position with Columbia County Forests, Parks and Recreation Department, is revising the county's 1993 parks master plan. Part of her plan will be a marketing strategy to get more people to use the parks. "I think as gas prices go up, travel trend studies show that people are staying closer to home," said Owen, 26, whose effort is earning her credits toward her master's degree at University of Oregon. "It's important that people know what they have right in their own back yard, plus it's a short trip from surrounding areas like Longview or Portland." She expects to have her plan to the Columbia County commissioners for approval next month. The county is paying a portion of the $30,000 Resource Assistance for Rural Environments project in cooperation with the University of Oregon, Americorps and Oregon Economic and Community Development. The sum pays Owen's stipend, travel and other costs. Owen worked for four years in California and Florida as a land use planner and in environmental jobs before deciding to return to school. The county has a wide variety of parks including marine parks, an island, equestrian trails and camping, group camping and places for weddings. In addition, there parks for RV use, day-use and beautiful undeveloped areas that could be improved some day. In the draft revision, Owen has identified existing parks, trails and recreational facilities in the county, which is on the cusp of reaching 50,000 population. She then conducted a survey of wants and needs of county residents. She also examined demographics and park user trends to come up with a list of priorities to present to the commissioners.
She has identified seven major needs for the county's park system:
Plan Highlights Here is a list of Columbia County parks and goals for them identified in a draft revised master plan developed by Erika Owen: Camp Wilkerson, 280 acres Horse corrals and equestrian campsites were recently built at Camp Wilkerson, the county's largest park. The 280-acre site is located about 13 miles up Apiary Road, south of Rainier. The camp has a lodge, restrooms, showers, rental cabins, tent sites and areas with three-sided sleeping shelters, called "Adirondacks" for groups. Owen said the priority goals at Camp Wilkerson include new toilets and hand-washing facilities at the Adirondacks, additional restrooms and showers for the equestrian facilities and signs for the trails. Short-term goals are an improved water system, a playground, RV spaces and developing trail access to the Crown Zellerbach Trail and Scaponia Park trails. Hudson-Parcher Park, 27 acres This park of wooded picnic areas and campsites borders Beaver Creek, on Larson Road across from the Rainier Junior/Senior High School campus. Amenities include basketball court, soccer fields, softball and baseball fields, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, playground, community cabin with water and electricity, picnic area with barbecue grills, restrooms and showers, group fire pit, kitchen facilities, campsites, access to the creek and trails, RV dump station, potable water, parking and firewood. Priority goals: Replace cabin foundation and expand day-use area. Short-term goals: Replace vehicle bridge across Beaver Creek, pave parking spurs, upgrade playground equipment and repave basketball courts. Dibblee Beach, 110 acres Located about three miles down river from Rainier. This undeveloped area is along the Columbia River west of the Lewis and Clark Bridge in Rainier. The beach is a popular destination for sports fishing, horseback riding, hiking and picnicking.fishing and other recreational uses. Dibblee Island is accessible only by boat. Priority goals: Develop a parking area. Long-term goals: Develop picnic area and shelter, restrooms and boat launch. Columbia County developed parks (with overnight camping) Big Eddy Park, 9 acres Located on Highway 47 near Vernonia. Amenities include campsites, playground equipment and access to the Nehalem River. There is a non-motorized boat launch, swimming beach, dog area and RV dump station. Open year-round with a resident host. Priority goals (within 5 years): Water filtration system Short term goals (within 10 years): Upgrade RV utilities, install safety fence between park and highway and develop additional day-use parking. Camp Wilkerson, 280 acres The county's largest park is on Apiary Road about 13 miles south of Rainier. Amenities include hiking, biking and equestrian trails, horseshoe pits, community lodge, kitchen facilities, picnic areas with barbecue grills, restrooms and showers (one is ADA accessible), amphitheater, group fire pit, rental cabins, six horse campsites with corrals, tent site, Adirondack areas, access to Oak Ranch Creek, potable water and firewood. The lodge can be rented for weddings. Priority goals: Replace toilets and handwashing facilities in Adirondack areas, construct new restroom/shower, complete equestrian facilities and provide signs on trails. Short term goals: Improve water system, build playground, develop RV spaces, acquire and develop trail access to the Crown Zellerbach Trail and Scaponia Park.
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Hudson-Parcher Park, 27 acres This park of wooded picnic areas and campsites is on Beaver Creek, on Larson Road across from the Rainier Junior/Senior High School campus. Amenities include basketball court, soccer fields, softball and baseball fields, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, playground, community cabin with water and electricity, picnic area with barbecue grills, restrooms and showers, group fire pit, kitchen facilities, campsites, access to the creek and trails, RV dump station, potable water, parking and firewood. Priority goals: Replace cabin foundation and expand day-use area. Short-term goals: Replace vehicle bridge across Beaver Creek, pave parking spurs, upgrade playground equipment and repave basketball courts. J. J. Collins Memorial Marine Park, 23 acres Located in the Multnomah Channel on Coon Island near Scappoose. It offers access to the Multnomah Channel, transient docks, hiking trails, picnic areas with barbecue grill, picnic shelter, group fire pit, composting toilets, primitive tent sites. Priority goals: Replace toilet. Short-term goals: Improve overnight camping facilities and move existing campsites inland from the banks of the island to minimize erosion. Scaponia Park, 7.6 acres The park is located on the Scappoose-Vernonia Highway in the east fork of the Nehalem River. The park provides primitive tent sites, footbridges cross the river to hiking trails. It is open year-round and offers picnic areas, vault toilet, access to the Nehalem River, potable water and parking. Priority goals: Secure a long-term lease or donation of the park from the Bureau of Land Management, develop a camp host facility. Short-term goals: Acquire and develop access to the Crown Zellerbach Trail and to Camp Wilkerson and construct a day-use shelter with electricity. Scappoose RV Park, 2 acres The park is located adjacent to the Scappoose Airport on Highway 30. Amenities include RV site, tent sites, playground, picnic areas with barbecue grills, picnic shelter, restrooms and showers, parking, potable water, RV dump station and fire wood.
Undeveloped parks Asburry Park, 28 acres Adjacent to the Columbia County Event Complex in St. Helens. Priority goals: Implement wetlands mitigation plan, develop restroom facility, build playground and picnic areas. Short-term goals: Develop nature trail with interpretive signs. Beaver Falls Park, 30 acres Located on Beaver Falls Road in the Clatskanie - Delena area. Highlights include Beaver Falls, which cascades 52 feet. Priority goals: Develop a parking area and trails to the lower falls. Short-term goals: Develop a day-use area and vault toilet. Carcus Creek Park, 52 acres -- Located near Swedetown Road in Clatskanie. The park is landlocked and there is no public access. Dibblee Beach, 101 acres Located about three miles down river from Rainier. This undeveloped area is used for fishing and other recreational uses. Dibblee Island is accessible only by boat. Priority goals: Develop a parking area. Long-term goals: Develop picnic area and shelter, restrooms and boat launch. Fisher Park, 9 acres Located on Old Columbia River Highway near Scappoose. Short-term goals: Develop picnic area and shelter, parking area and restrooms.
Developed day-use only parks Laurel Beach Park, 1.9 acres This park offers parking and picnic spots near the Columbia River, 1 1/2 miles south of Rainier on Highway 30. It features access to fishing and bird viewing. Gates open one hour before sunrise, closes one hour after sunset. Mist Park -- Located just off Highway 47 in Mist, this community wayside has parking and picnic tables. Prescott Beach Park, 71 acres This large, sandy beach is on the Columbia River adjacent to the deactivated Trojan Plant on Highway 30, just south of Rainier. The county owns 10 acres and leases 61 acres from Portland General Electric. Amenities include access to the river, ADA accessible fishing, horseshoe pits, volleyball court, playground, gazebo, picnic areas with barbecue grills, picnic shelters, group fire pits, restrooms, potable water and parking. Priority goals: Secure ownership of the property. Short-term goals: Develop full hook-up RV sites, develop tent sites, construct restrooms with showers.
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