Chronicle & Chief IN MEMORIAM 2023
Basketball updates
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Chronicle & Chief THE COLUMBIA COUNTY
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Wednesday, January 3, 2024 | Columbia County, Oregon
St. Helens taking on the new year
Dear Readers, We are excited to announce the merger of two esteemed newspapers today. This collaboration marks a significant step forward, merging our coverage in one countywide newspaper. The St. Helens Chronicle and The Clatskanie Chief will be published as one newspaper each Wednesday. This is a strategy that Oregon-based Country Media considers a sustainable path forward for your hometown newspaper. The Chronicle and The Chief have a rich tradition of covering St. Helens, Clatskanie, and other cities across Columbia County. For over 100 years, they have been reporting and documenting the local news. This upcoming change will help The Chronicle and The Chief continue to inform and educate about community events, county government, economics, schools, sports, and regional issues every week. I believe the Columbia County Chronicle & Chief must be an involved and active community business. We do this by participating with local area organizations and nonprofits, serving on boards and committees, and providing sponsorships. Understanding and capturing the diverse interests within Columbia County and advocating for good government are things we do not take lightly. My philosophy is that a hometown newspaper should promote its community while informing and educating its readers on locally relevant issues. Our county’s businesses need your support. We’re one of those local businesses, and we hope you’ll continue to support your hometown, Columbia County Chronicle & Chief. We appreciate your readership! Frank Perea II Publisher The Columbia County Chronicle & Chief
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Waterfront redevelopment will be a key priority for the City of St. Helens this year. WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.
The new year has arrived, and cities across Columbia County have their sights set on the pressing issues facing their communities in the coming twelve months. The Columbia County Chronicle and Chief reached out to city representatives from around the county for their insight on what the ac-
complishments and challenges were in 2023 and what they see as the big issues going into 2024. This article will examine some of the highlights and priorities for St. Helens in 2023 and what the goals are for the city in the new year. Check next week’s edition to see the achievements, challenges, and goals for Scappoose, Rainier, and Clatskanie as we say goodbye to 2023 and welcome in 2024.
Accomplishments While budget issues have been a major talking point for the City of St. Helens, 2023 was still a year that had its fair share of accomplishments. City Manager John Walsh detailed a variety of achievements that happened for the city over the last 12 months. Some of the most significant
gains have been the grants the city has utilized to complete various projects. “[We got] successful grant applications such as $100,000 from Travel Oregon for the Riverwalk Project, $300,000 from the Oregon Transportation and Growth Management Program to update
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St. Helens pauses community grants WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.
The St. Helens City Council is pausing its 2024 community grant application process due to current and projected budget shortfalls. The city said the temporary halt will help the City of St. Helens continue to pay for essential community services such as police and code enforcement, building plan review and inspections, and municipal court processes. City Communications Officer Crystal King detailed why the adjustment was necessary as the city works to make dues with the resources at its disposal. “The 2023/24 Fiscal Year budget utilized $500,000 in general fund reserves to balance the budget. This shortfall will continue into the 24/25 FY budget if changes are not made, causing the city’s reserve balance to fall below the 20% policy amount,” King said. “We have projected that the closure of Cascade Tissues will create a $1.4 million deficit to the city’s budget through the loss of utility payments, property taxes, and lease revenue. Federal COVID stimulus funds (ARPA) are also ending. These funds helped the City
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St. Helens City Hall is located at 265 Strand Street.
support staffing, but the funding will no longer be available.” The pause to community grants will help the city navigate these budget challenges while ensuring that services are still available in the community. King said the city is already using reserves to pay for services this
year because expenses have surpassed revenue. “This is not sustainable long-term. The non-profit grant program is just one of many cuts that will have to be made to balance the city’s resources against expenses to maintain services,” King said.
As the city navigates its budget shortfall, it will lean on its Budget Committee to help it through the budgeting process. The St. Helens Budget Committee will hold its first
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CMHS’s performing arts dinner LAUREY WHITE Chronicle & Chief Guest Article
CMHS celebrated their students who are involved in musicianship and drama with a performing arts dinner. There were two seatings for the dinner, with 50 people attending each one on Dec. 19. The choir showed their prodigious talent by singing as a group and in duets and solos. The band also played while attendees dined. The menu featured taco soup, chicken noodle soup, salad, breadsticks and brownies. The drama students took tickets at the door and served the food. “There was a great feeling of holiday togetherness that we hadn’t felt since shutdown!” said Jamie Erwin, Music, Drama, and Art teacher at CMHS. “In between seatings , the middle and high school band performed “Santa the Barbarian” in the theatre. The song is a very creative collection of familiar Christmas songs with a twist, and a really fun piece to play.” Not only did the evening
produce quality entertainment and enhance the Yuletide mood, but more than $1,100 was raised for the music and drama programs. Costs for the dinner were kept down due to generous donations. The beef was donated by the Culbertson family, Wauna Credit Union donated the chicken, and Fultano’s donated the breadsticks. The Clatskanie Foundation donated the venue – the communityoriented cultural center. An army of moms armed with crockpots spent the entire day cooking and getting the food from the home economics classroom at CMHS to the cultural center. “The students really enjoyed performing,” said Erwin. “I really like this event because it gives them a different performance experience. The formula is usually just two concerts a year where they play/sing, the audience sits and listens, they clap, and then we go home.” She concludes,” While that fits one aspects of musicianship, there are other aspects out there. I think it is important for them to have different musical experiences.”
Performing arts dinner.
In Memoriam ................................. A2 Obituaries ...................................... A3 News and Views ........................... A4 Poll .................................................. A4 Community Calendar ...................... A5
Classified Ads .............................. A6 Legals ............................................. A7 Crossword ..................................... A7 Games and Puzzles ..................... A8 Sports ........................................... A10
Courtesy photo from Laurey White
Contact The Chronicle & CHief Phone: 503-397-0116 Fax: 503-397-4093 Email: chroniclenews@countrymedia.net 1805 Columbia Blvd.,St. Helens, OR 97051
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The Columbia County Chronicle & Chief
Wednesday, January 3, 2024
IN MEMORIAM 2023 Ron Abbott Sheryl Ann Adair Margaret E. Amos Terry Lee Archibald Gerald Harley Atkins Joseph Baker Carla Barchus Lois Elaine Barrett Virginia Beckerdite Rick Shawn Beehler Barbara Begleries Jewelldene Beickel Douglas Bellingham Jordan Bennett Lowell Onen Bentley Douglas Wayne Betschart Imogene Ruth Bigger Irma Georgia Blaha Erick Bowles Everett Bozarth Cheryl Darlene Breslin Norman Lee Brigham Gregory Brown Wilma Deloves Brush Raymond J. Buckno Jr. Thomas Budge Keith Allan Bunn Lorraine Janene Burger John Clark Burnett Colleen C. Burns Martha Esther Burton Geneva Joyce Burwell Verlo Bush Phyllis W. Cade Sylvia Jane Carr Lawrence Cataline Eunice Marie Chase Arthur William Cole II Joseph Wesley Crisp Charlotte Burkett Cross Pamela Curnutt Dennis James Daniels James Earl Davis Jerald Edward Davis Mary Lou Davis Sharon Forest DeBorde Diane Marie Dillard Doris “Arlene” Dougherty Mark Frederick DuBach Gary Gene Duncan Ronda Lynn Johnson Dunn Joe Eaton Shirley Helens (Cook) Eaton Teressa Elliott Sandra Pauline Emrick Memory England James Ernest David Esterline Curt Andrew Evern Roxana Fields John Paul Fleming Winn Stuart Forman
Kay L. Fortney Evelyn Carol Foshaug Donald Michael Foultner Vance Fraser Evelyn Marie Fricke Theresa Gaffney Hollis Gassner Gary E. Geer Margaret Louise Geier Irene Ruth Gibson Marlene Gift Donald L. Gish Valerie Goodwin Donna Marie Goodwin Ronald Dean Grant Susan E. Davis Gressett Monna Rae Griffith Lyle Timothy Gump Marleen Kay Haagenson Nevayeh Moore Callaway (Hahmeyer) Shuri Nicole Hahmeyer Zerych Lealand Callaway (Hahmeyer) Viola Jane Hallett Judy Karen Hamlin Rodney Harding Robert Hargan Nancy Rozetta Harlow Donna Harmon Kenneth Lloyde Harrington Peggy Congleton Hawkins Caleb Robert Hocking (Head) Susan Hebert Aleesha Heidmann Roy “Bud” Heinz Fred Heller Alvin Pete Hendrickson Sharon Nadine Hermo Amber Lee Holeman Vicky Holmgren William Charles Hooper Ruth Ann House Edwin Hruby John Stephen Hubbard Steven Hubler Patricia Huhn Ryan David Jacks Jeff Alan Jennings Kenneth Lyle Jensen Barbra Dawn Johnson Cory Johnson Frederick Richard Johnson Joyce Johnson Michael Jurkiewicz Daniel Kallunki Evelyn Annette Kellar James Kemp Leonard Wayne King Richard Charles Kirtland Jr. Donald Edward Klippstein Charles Franklin Klobes Jeremiah Koljonen Darlene Timakos Kratky
Scott Kreitman Melvin Kyser June Louise Lampsa Richard Larson Reino Lehto Terry Leino Robert Wayne Lewis Hal Richard Lofquist Sherry Long Cheryl Loupe Eugene Edward Lucas Thomas L. Lund Arlene Delores Luoto Shelton Luttrell Jr. Albert Joseph McDonald Michael McFarland Douglas Glenn McKay Diane Laraine (Hermo) McKinney Donavon Wade Mehlhoff Susan Lea Walker Meyers David Nelson Miller Douglas Mollenhour Suzanne Ellen Moore Alex Mueller Richard Murray Cynthia Marie Nagel Bonita Neathamer Clara Wanner Neelands Rena Norman Darrel Alan Nys Marcia Ann Edson Orr Bobbie Owens Katherine Ann Painter Victor Darrell Pardee Richard Parker Albert Murl Parker Pam Parmley Vern Parnell Donna Louise Pense William Peterson Rosemary Peterson Diane Pohl Joanne Jeraldine Porter Julius Ray Pritchett Thomas Ramey Monte Ramvick Robert Ray David Allen Reeves Emma Rosellan Riley Shirley Rods Brian James Rofinot Joseph Benton Rogers Jr. Gary Joseph Rutledge Katherine M. Rutledge Michelle Windsor-Rutledge Ryan M. Rutledge Larry Preston Sauls Evelyn Ruth Smith Rickert Sayles
Bertha M. Schmidt Harley Delbert Schmuck Robert Alan Shadley Nolan Shefstad Joy Delight Shelby Annette Marie Shinkle Rosemary Ann Sickles Carol Ann Sirnio Linda Lynn Sjoblom Julie Diane Skeen Carol J. Smith Gary Lee Smith Helen Smith Jewel “Goldie” Velma Smith Timothy Emery Smith Robert Snider Susan A. Souvenir Theodore Stanwood James Byron Steward Mary Helen Stroh Mark Sullivan Arnie Sundberg John Svenson Danny Alan Swanson Norman Francis Sykes Elsie Jo (Patton) Tescari Ruth Ann Thornton Kenneth Jay Tice Ansten Tretten Arnold Joy Tryner Linda Madge Turley Frank Van Horn Marilyn Baker Van Natta John Joseph Vlastelicia Jr. Alice Kay Warner Jeanean Lorraine Warnick Gary Lee Weir Roger H. Welliver Dennis Patrick White Richard J. White Susan J. (Chamberlain) Willette Janet Rose Willey Jean M. Wolfenbarger De. Joachim Wolf-Priessnitz James Earls Woods Patrick Dennis Wright Michael Fred Yancey
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St. Helens completes sidewalk safety project STAFF REPORT Country Media, Inc.
The City of St. Helens has finished a sidewalk and bike lane infrastructure project that seeks to increase safety for students who walk to school. The sidewalk construction on Columbia Boulevard connected Gable Road and Sykes Road. It was a joint project between the City of St. Helens and Columbia County, according to St. Helens Communications Officer Crystal King. “This was a collaborative project between
the City and the County with funding in part from ODOT’s Safe Routes to School Program,” King said. “Finishing this project now creates a safe and connected pedestrian sidewalk and bicycle lane improvements, particularly for students, from the High School along Gable Road to Columbia Boulevard and McBride Elementary School.” Oregon Department of Transportation Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Program provided $322,536 in funding to support this project, and the remainder of the
project cost was shared between Columbia County and the City of St. Helens. Improvements on Gable Road were done through a previous SRTS project. As part of the project, a new sidewalk was constructed on the east side of Columbia Boulevard. A bike lane on the east side of Columbia Boulevard was also completed. Workers added a rapid flashing beacon for pedestrians crossing Columbia Boulevard at McBride Elementary School. Additionally, a new storm drain and culvert were constructed, and over
22 trees and 25 shrubs were planted in the project corridor. These improvements were made with a particular focus on creating safe pedestrian and bicycle travel for school-aged children, according to a post on the City of St. Helens Facebook page. The completion of the Columbia Boulevard project “now creates a safe and connected travel corridor” from St. Helens High School to McBride Elementary School by using Gable Road and Columbia Boulevard.
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A look at the before and after of the project on Columbia Boulevard connecting Gable Road and Sykes Road.
2024 Annual Awards Banquet in full swing SUBMITTED BY JAK MASSEY
The South Columbia County Chamber of Commerce is planning the 2024 Celebration of Excellence Awards Banquet. We are requesting that businesses and local citizens save the date for this special event on March 23, 2024. This grant gala will be held at the Columbia County Fairgrounds and will be an exciting evening as local citizens and businesses serving the South Columbia County area will be recognized for their contributions and achievements. It is always an honor to be acknowledged for your work and your local Chamber of Commerce has the privilege of presenting awards and promoting supporting our local businesses. The nomination process opened on Dec. 18, 2023 and will remain open until Jan. 19, 2024. Anyone who lives or works in the South Columbia County area may submit nominations and or be nominated. The online nomination form is ready to accept your nominations now! To submit your entries, visit the Chamber’s website (via the events page) at https://sccchamber.org/ events. Submitting nominations
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is easy and will only take a few minutes. This year’s award categories are as follows: Small Business of the Year, Medium Business of the Year, Large Business of the, New Business of the Year, Non-Profit of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year, First Citizen and Silver Citizen of the Year. The Chamber encourages your participation, sharing that “to nominate is to appreciate!” We have so many deserving businesses, non-profit organizations, and members of the community. The 2024 Celebration of Excellence Awards Banquet will offer food, fun, refreshments, and the opportunity to celebrate our business communities. The Chamber is delighted to host and has plans of expanding on last year’s event; they have already been actively working on making this year’s event bigger and better. With nearly 300 in attendance at the May 2023 event, the pavilion at the Columbia
County Fairgrounds is a larger venue, accommodating up to 400 guests. This year’s theme is “It’s Your Time to Shine,” and our guests will receive celebrity treatment as soon as they arrive. Greeted by our spectacular promotional paparazzi team, guests can take this time to do a brief interview, sharing who they are and what unique services they offer, and it’s all streaming live on social media. Then, step inside and experience some glitz and glamour with an open photo booth provided by Cherry on Top Photobooth, ready to capture countless memories and merriment all evening. Tables lined with items donated by local businesses for our raffle ticket drawing, and a variety of beautifully bagged bottles available for sale at the Wine & Whiskey Wall. Sharing promotion with four local eateries with a 4-course dinner catered independently. There are
two no-host bars in separate locations within the event – one bar offering signature cocktails, managed by Beyond the Forest Events, and the other bar offering local brews, wine, and cider, managed by Crooked Creek Brewery. Our cocktail hour (from 5–6 p.m.) will kick off the evening with delicious appetizers and a chance to connect with other business owners and locals. Dinner will begin at 6 p.m. and
provide a “2023 Reflections and Connections slideshow” for our guests’ entertainment - packed with photos and highlights from networking events and ribbon-cutting celebrations in 2023. After dinner, the Chamber will present a brief Annual Report and update as to plans for the current year. Add in acknowledgment for the businesses who supported and sponsored the event and then the showcase of the night ~ presenting the
awards. A lively presentation with introductions of nominees and some moments of anticipation when waiting for winners to be revealed. It is a good show, lots of fun, and a great way to support your local community. Tickets will go on sale in early January. More to come, stay tuned. Jak Massey is the Executive Director at the South Columbia Chamber of Commerce.
Elks Teen of the Month for December SUBMITTED BY ST. HELENS HIGH SCHOOL
St. Helens High School is pleased to announce Tyler Mauldin as December Elks Student of the Month! Tyler is an excellent student, athlete, and community member. When first hearing of this new accomplishment, Tyler was very honored and excited as he had been hoping for the award. As an outstanding athlete, Tyler has a varsity letter in Baseball, three varsity letters in cross country and a scholar-athlete in cross country. His baseball coach, Matt Lokken, says, “Tyler is a perfect example of what we want out of our students, athletes, and community members. Tyler is a do-er and will always lead by example. On the baseball field, he is a supportive teammate that communicates well with coaches and is always looking for areas to improve even though he is already talented.” In his free time, Tyler enjoys hunting and fishing. He has also worked as an intern at CUG for the past two summers, where he helps build composite airplane parts and maintain the CNC machines. After graduation, he plans to go to college to study mechanical engineering and hopefully play baseball.
Tyler Mauldin.
Courtesy photo from St. Helens High School
Tyler also volunteers at his church and for the St. Helens Little League, where he gives baseball lessons. He is also part of the National Honor Society here at the high school and is an honor
roll student. He feels that his drive is his best attribute, where he constantly tries to be and do the best he can and always striving to accomplish more. Congratulations Tyler!
Obituaries
Kenneth Lloyd Harrington Oct. 10, 1928 ~ Dec. 22, 2023
Kenneth Harrington, a long-time resident of St. Helens, Oregon, passed away Fri., Dec. 22, 2023, at the age of 95. He was born Oct. 10, 1928, in Anchorage, Alaska to Otis and Ester (Teich) Harrington. Ken grew up and attended school in Anchorage graduation with the class of 1947, he later attended Perry Technical Institute from 1955 to 1957. While attending trade school Ken married
Phyllis Cummins on March 17, 1956. They lived in Spokane, Washington where Ken worked for Inland Empire Paper Co. from 1957 – 1967. In 1967 they moved to St. Helens, Oregon, Ken started work with Boise Cascade where he stayed until retirement in 1991. They were members of Columbia Christian Church on South 15th, he also enjoyed being a handy man, gardening, and his yard work.
Kenneth is survived by his wife Phyllis Harrington; their four children, Bruce Harrington, Kenneth “Mark” Harrington, Sherry Harrington, and Cynthia Nollette; four grandchildren; and six great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his siblings Robert and Laverne. A funeral will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Fri., Jan. 5, 2024 at Columbia Funeral Home in St. Helens, OR.
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Wednesday, January 3, 2024
The Columbia County Chronicle & Chief
News and Views
Gardening resolutions for the New Year CHIP BUBL Garden Plots Chronicle & Chief Guest Column
Gardening resolutions for the New Year Gardens are all about change. Plants that you once loved have grown too big for their space and/or are selfseeding their offspring everywhere. Fruit trees that fail to set fruit (or die on their own) need to be removed. New vegetables come along that demand space where space is limited. What won’t you plant to make way for them? Compost, shovels, sweat, loppers, chain saws, and our energy and imagination will create the 2024 version of our gardens. Garden resolutions should be attainable. So here are some resolutions that are at once personal (at least some of them) and some more general for you to consider: Weed early and often Weeds compete directly with our garden plants for light. When you dig a new bed, carefully remove all perennial weeds. This can be done by covering the bed in the fall or winter with a heavy mulch of leaves or compost and black plastic, which you will later remove. Adding more compost and some quarter-ten gravel in perennial beds (the “Joy Creek technique”) will get your new spaces off to a good start. For vegetables, focus your weeding efforts on the first four weeks after you seed or transplant. That will get your vegetables growing. Winter weeding never hurts either and can reduce the volume of bedstraw and bittercress (“popweed”) in the spring. Grow flowers amongst your vegetables This will improve predatory insect activity and furnish pollen and nectar for pollinators of all types. Best advice is to plant groups of the same flowers (3-4 feet wide) at scattered locations within your gardening areas. Here is a source for information on attracting pollinators: https://xerces.org/publications/plant-lists/native-plantsfor-pollinators-and-beneficialinsects-maritime-northwest and here is a great one on attracting predators: https://
Metro Creative Connection
catalog.extension.oregonstate. edu/sites/catalog/files/project/ pdf/pnw550.pdf.
Jan. 4 Columbia County Beekeepers Monthly meeting
Master Gardener™ class signups being taken for 2024 class in St. Helens
Thursday, Jan. 4 at 7 p.m. Fonta Molyneauz will talk by Zoom about the honeybee brood nest. Fonta is an experienced beekeeper with many hive styles. Understanding what is happening in the brood nest is a main driver of the beekeeper’s activities throughout the year. All are welcome to attend. Contact Linda Zahl at ColumbiaCountyOregonBeekeepers@gmail.com for the zoom link or attend in person at the Extension Office.
The OSU Extension office in Columbia County will be offering the Master Gardener™ training starting in mid-February. This year, we are trying a new schedule that allows people that work to attend. The classes will be held on Tuesdays from about 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. and on some Saturdays from ~10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Classes will go into early May at the Extension office in St. Helens and at some off-site places on Saturdays. Cost of the program is $100.00 which includes a large resource book. Some scholarships are available. Master Gardeners are responsible for providing volunteer gardening education to the community as partial payback for the training. If interested in the program, call the Extension office at 503 397-3462 for an information packet. Online registration should be available soon. Got food safety or food preservation questions? Give us a call at 503-3973462. You can also get your pressure gauge tested for free at the Extension office. Food Preservation recipes and fact sheets can be accessed online at: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/food/preservation Important notes • Donate extra garden produce and/or money to the food bank, senior centers, or community meals programs. It always is greatly appreciated. • The Extension Service offers its programs and materials equally to all people. • The OSU Extension Office is fully open from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
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Have questions? If you have questions on any of these topics or other home garden and/ or farm questions, please contact Chip Bubl, Oregon State University Extension office in St. Helens at 503397-3462 or at chip.bubl@ oregonstate.edu. The office is open from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Free newsletter The Oregon State University Extension office in Columbia County publishes a monthly newsletter on gardening and farming topics (called County Living) written/edited by yours truly. All you need to do is ask for it and it will be mailed or emailed to you. Call 503397-3462 to be put on the list. Alternatively, you can find it on the web at http:// extension.oregonstate.edu/ columbia and click on newsletters. Resource information Oregon State University Extension Service – Columbia County 505 N. Columbia River Highway St. Helens, OR 97051 503-397-3462
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CONTACT US • Phone: (503) 397-0116 • Fax: (503) 397-4093 Website: www.thechronicleonline.com • www.thechiefnews.com Editorial: chroniclenews@countrymedia.net • chiefnews@countrymedia.net ADVERTISE WITH US: Display ads: chronicleads@countrymedia.net Classified ads: chronicleclassifieds@countrymedia.net FOLLOW US • facebook.com/sthelenschronicle or twitter.com/shchronicle Editorial policy Opinions expressed on this page are independent of The Columbia County Chronicle & Chief, its staff, and Country Media, Inc.. Views and are solely those of the writers expressing them. Letters policy This newspaper’s letters to the editor are limited to a maximum of 250 words and will be edited for grammar, spelling and blatant inaccuracies. Unsubstantiated or irresponsible allegations, or personal attacks on any individual, will not be published. Letters containing details presented as facts rather than opinions must include their sources. Writers are limited to one published letter per
month. All submissions must include the author’s full name, local street address and telephone number (only the name and city of residence will be published). By submitting a letter, writers also grant permission for them to be posted online. Opinions expressed on this page are the writer’s alone and do not represent the opinion of the newspaper or its parent company, Country Media, Inc. Guest commentary We welcome all variety of community viewpoints in the newspaper. These longer, guest opinions might be columns written by newsmakers, public officials or organization representatives. Or you might just
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have interesting thoughts to share and a penchant for writing. If you’d like to submit a guest column for publication, contact us at 503-397-0116 or chroniclenews@countrymedia.net. Obituaries Obituaries received after noon on Friday may not be in time for that Friday’s paper. Obituaries may be emailed to chronicleclassifieds@countrymedia.net, sent via mail, or dropped off at the office. We also accept obituaries written by funeral homes. Include the address and daytime phone number of the person who submitted the obituary, so we can verify information as necessary.
NXT Rail Yard Proposal: Unacceptable risk and wasted taxpayer resources GREG PETTIT Chronicle & Chief Guest Column
When the Houston-based NXT Renewables (formerly NEXT) developer Lou Soumas came to Columbia County, he promised their proposal for a renewable diesel and aviation fuel refinery at Port Westward would bring high-paying jobs, a green economy, and a huge tax base to our county. Who wouldn’t support that? NXT knew that concerns over increased mile-long trains passing through Scappoose and St. Helens were a significant objection for previously unfulfilled commercial proposals promising those same jobs and tax base increases. Accordingly, NXT parroted promises that nearly all feedstock and finished fuels (the largest aspect of this proposed operation) would travel through the dock; “ship-in, ship-out.” Yet, our community has watched NXT’s promises erode into the current proposal for 3.4 miles of new track. Even county commissioners and state agencies have been side railed by NXT’s ever-changing plans for what would be a culde-sac for mile-long jumbo manifest trains (100+ rail cars) carrying toxic spent clays, flammable liquids, and a buffet of toxic, caustic processing chemicals. Given current market conditions, it is highly unlikely they’ll acquire their touted feedstocks to be brought in by ship. Thus, the proposed railyard could be used for more readily available virgin seed-oil crops (not waste oils) specifically grown for fuel. NXT’s promises continue to erode. Approving this rail yard would massively increase mile-long train traffic throughout south county, an increase that puts the cart before the horse. Scappoose and St. Helens already have significant traffic and safety problems exacerbated by train traffic. If the county cannot afford the improvements necessary to mitigate these problems, it should not facilitate something that will make them worse. More importantly, if NXT is comfortable changing course mid-stream, even regarding officially permitted aspects of the proposal, how can we trust the current story they’re telling us? After seven years, NXT has no clue what their feedstocks will be or from where they will come. This proposal is a classic bait and switch strategy used to distract from the risks and
adverse impacts for south county residents’ quality of life. “Ship-in, ship-out” switched to “jumbo-manifest trains and a massive railyard displacing existing, successful agriculture. “No virgin oils, and only waste feedstocks” switched to “virgin oils…and, sorry, it’s the market’s fault.” So, what exactly are we doing at these permitting hearings if the established plan can be altered at a whim? What will incremental alterations look like over time if NXT is allowed to break ground? Who is benefitting (cashing a paycheck) from this shapeshifting journey of unacknowledged dangers and rule-bending, dragging scrutinous citizens from hearing to hearing, wasting our un-paid time with malleable propositions? The Port of Columbia County Port Westward properties lie within the Beaver Drainage Improvement Company (BDIC) drainage district. Columbia County zoning ordinance 1100 requires the BDIC levees to be certified for the development of Port Westward. The Portland District of the Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) conducted field inspections of the Levees in 2013 for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and declared the system as “Previously certified, but not currently certified”. Some levees were three feet low and required so much work that “future analysis for certification at this point is fruitless”. Remote imaging surveys conducted in 2023 indicated levels off by five feet from requirements. The Port of Columbia County itself supported projects that have undermined levee integrity; the Hermo Road Mitigation Site created dangerously unstable conditions reminiscent of levees impacted by Hurricane Katrina, threatening infrastructure considered by the Department of Defense to be “critical to the entire west coast.” It is insane for leadership to promote the development of the world’s largest renewable fuel refinery in a floodway (not a regulated flood plain) immediately above the Columbia River estuary, a bountiful ecological treasure of our nation, directly neighboring thousands of acres of farmland and homesteads. Consider that non-certified levees will make it nigh impossible both for NXT to obtain insurance, and existing industry at Port Westward to maintain insurance. The costs of damage or cleanup from
accidents would be borne by local residents, reminiscent of previous projects by the founders of NXT. The Port has devoted huge sums of resources to infrastructure improvements at Port Westward for predominantly high-risk speculative energy proposals based on faulty economic analyses. County commissioners have also encouraged voters to divert millions of dollars from essential public institutions through Urban Renewal Districts promising big money at Port Westward. Columbia County has received zero ROI for Port Westward development, highlighting that the goal of these proposals could often be the attraction of investment funds, not the completion of the project. Marketed to a desperate commission, unwilling to ask hard questions and set realistic expectations, it seems an easy check to cash. Unemployment in Columbia County is now at 3.9 %, a near record low, and our average household income is one of the highest in Oregon. These statistics undermine the supposed desperation our leadership uses to cut corners and invite industry at any cost. Port commissioners need to focus on employers who will help fulfill our potential as a County through proposals that, in the Port’s Executive Director’s own words, “are more in-line with the character of our county.” Abundant natural resources nestled next to the environmental treasure of the Lower Columbia River is Port Westward’s character and could contribute to our agriculture economy (90% of which is currently imported). Who needs more “energy” when we’re set to drastically cut our consumption through local, regenerative, carbonsequestering food and fiber production? Now that’s green jobs, economy, and quality of life! If the Port and County commissioners continue to put industry interests ahead of our citizens’ interests, they are paving the way for economic roller coasters that depend on non-local players who are not invested in our community’s well-being. However, if the Port can appropriately prioritize our citizens’ interests, and remember that the quality and preservation of our natural resources is fundamental, Columbia County can’t help but thrive and engage with immediate responsibility. Greg Pettit is a citizen of Columbia County.
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Police Reports The police blotter relates to the public record of incidents as reported by law enforcement agencies. All individuals arrested or charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Information printed is preliminary and subject to change. For specific details about cases listed, contact the appropriate law enforcement agency.
December 23
December 27
• An officer recovered a vehicle that was stolen earlier out of Longview. The owner was able to retrieve the car.
• A transient who had been sleeping in the bathroom at the marina was advised to move along. • A concerned citizen reported seeing an injured, aggressive beaver along the side of the road. Oregon State Police was notified. • Officers were called to a residence where family members were having a heated argument. Peace was restored. • A caller reported some activity that they believed to be suspicious at the city park. No crime was committed. • An officer assisted with traffic control after a large tree fell, blocking the highway. • Officers assisted a resident who was upset after an ex-boyfriend showed up, unwelcome, at the residence. The ex is the owner of the property.
December 24
• A caller reported seeing a suspicious-looking vehicle in front of a mailbox. The reporting party did not know whether or not the driver went through the mailbox, and the vehicle left several minutes earlier.
• Officers were dispatched to check on a suspicious male walking down the highway. The subject was contacted, and the man was taken into custody on outstanding warrants. • Officers responded to a road rage incident that occurred in the parking lot of Dollar General. Peace was restored. • An officer was called to check on the welfare of a screaming woman. It ended up that the woman was intoxicated, but okay. Peace was restored to the neighborhood.
December 21
December 25
• A motorist heading into town hit two parked vehicles, causing substantial damage. The driver initially left the scene but later returned when officers were investigating the scene. The driver admitted to having a beer at a residence after the crash. The driver was found to be in violation of his probation for consuming alcohol and was transported to jail.
• Multiple callers reported hearing a loud boom followed by someone yelling for help. A motorist lost their brakes and went over an embankment. The driver was transported with non-life-threatening injuries.
Rainier Police Department December 20
December 22 • Officers assisted Cowlitz County in locating a suspect vehicle in Rainier, which was allegedly used in the commission of a crime in their jurisdiction.
December 26 • Officers responded to an alarm at In Roads Credit Union. The alarm was accidentally set off. • A German Shepherd was reportedly running around on the highway. • A citizen reported that it appeared that someone may have gotten into their mailbox.
and criminal mischief near the 2000 block of Gable Road. December 13 • Police conducted a traffic stop near Sykes Road and seized a restricted weapon from the vehicle. • Police arrested a 27-year-old male subject on theft III at the 200 block of Brayden Street. December 14 • Police took a report of a burglary that occurred at Sand Island. • Police arrested a 42-year-old female subject on parole violation at the 500 block of Columbia River Highway. • Police arrested a 19-year-old male subject on a DUII at the 500 block of Columbia River Highway. December 15
St. Helens Police Department
• Police investigated a Burglary at the 80th block of 21 Street. • Police arrested a female subject for DUII-Drugs, interfering with a police officer, reckless driving, resisting arrest-assault, harassment-offensive physical contact, and interfering with a police officer near Sykes Road and Matzen Street.
December 11 • Officers arrested a 36-year-old female subject on a fugitive warrant at the 300 block of North 16th Street. • Police investigated a suspicious person at the 500 block of Columbia River Highway. • Officers arrested a 29-year-old male subject, a 31-year-old male subject, and a 31-year-old female subject for theft from vehicle, unlawful entry into vehicle, possession of stolen vehicle,
December 16 • Officers arrested a 59-year-old male subject for simple assault at the 100 block of North Vernonia.
December 17 • Police issued a citation in lieu of arrest to a 23-yearold male subject for driving while suspended at the 200 block of Little Street. December 18 • Officers took a report of a robbery of a residence at the 200 block of Mayfair Drive. • Police arrested a 57-yearold for DUII-Alcohol and reckless driving at the 2000 block of Oregon Street. December 20 • Police arrested a 19-yearold male subject, a male subject, and a female subject for theft II near Bradley Street and Shore Drive. • Officers arrested a 26-year-old male subject for fraud by deception near Deer Island Road and North Columbia River Highway. • Police arrested a 25-yearold male subject for DUIIalcohol near the 100 block of McMichael Street. December 21
death investigation at the 100 block of North River Street. December 23 • Police arrested a 55-yearold male subject on DUIIAlcohol, reckless driving near Columbia Boulevard and Matzen Street. • Police arrested a 28-yearold subject on a fugitive warrant, reckless driving, and attempting to elude while driving at the 2000 block of Huber Road. December 24 • Police arrested a 61-yearold male subject on a fugitive warrant at the 100 block of 12th Street. • Police investigated a hitand-run near Deer Island Road and North 8th Street. • Police investigated a disorderly conduct and explosives-possession near the 200 block of Trillium Street. December 25 • Police responded to a death investigation at the 100 block of South 16th Street. December 26
• Police took a report of a theft of a vehicle and stolen trailer at the 5000 block of Old Portland Road.
• Police arrested a 44-yearold male subject for failure to report as a sex offender at the 500 block of Columbia River Highway.
December 22 • Police arrested a 24-yearold male subject for disorderly conduct II near Old Portland Road and Port Avenue. • Officers responded to a
December 28 • Officers arrested a 48-year-old male subject for criminal trespass II at the 700 block of Columbia River Highway.
Community Events County Commission public land use hearing notice for NXT Jan. 10, 2024 10 a.m. The hearing will be held at 230 Strand Street, Room 310, St. Helens, OR 97051 or online visit columbiacountyor.gov Ongoing Events Fridays 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Caples House offers Tea and Sweets: a bottomless cup of tea with a homemade dessert. Cost is $5. In The Cottage, 1925 First Street in Columbia City. Call 503-397-5390 for more details. Fridays - Sunday 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. - Caples House Museum Tours, 1925
1st Street in Columbia City. Cost is $5. Stop by and see what has changed. For more information, call 503-3975390. Lower Columbia River Watershed Council Lower Columbia Watershed Council meets the second Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in the Clatskanie PUD building. Zoom links are also available. Visit the council’s website for agenda postings and Zoom at www.lowercolumbiariver.org/events-page. Resonate Recovery Meets at 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday - Sundays. This is a Bible based, Christ-centered spiritual recovery meeting for those struggling with
addictions and compulsive behavior at 220 S. 1st Street in St. Helens. Everyone is loved and welcomed. For more information call Debbie at 503-560-0521, Daniel Grant at 714-768-9327 or check the Resonate Facebook page.
p.m. for coffee, snacks, and fellowship. The meeting starts at 7 p.m. The first Monday of each month at 6 p.m. the doors open for a free dinner. Yankton Community Fellowship, 33579 Pittsburg Road in St. Helens. 503-396-7091. Childcare is available. www. yanktoncommunityfellowship. com.
Columbian Toastmasters Promoting positive learning and leadership through public speaking. Anyone is welcome to visit! Lunch meetings at Warren Country Inn, 56575 Columbia River Hwy, Warren, OR 97053 from 12 p.m.-1 p.m. every Thursday. Call 503369-0329 for more information.
Tea and Sweet on Fridays 2 p.m.- 4 p.m. Have tea and a sweet in Caples’ Cottage, 1925 1st Street in Columbia City. Cost is $5. 503-3975390. Storytime on Mondays 11 a.m. at the Columbia City Library, 2000 Second St. in Columbia City. For questions call, 503-366-8020.
Overcomers Outreach Meetings are held every Saturday at 9 a.m. at Creekside Baptist Church, 51681 SW Old Portland Road in Scappoose. Call Fred 971-757-6389.
Clatskanie Senior Center lunches Clatskanie Senior Center Lunches now served Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at noon at the Castle Cafe, 620 SW Tichenor. Call 503-728-
Celebrate Recovery For anyone struggling with addiction, hurts, habits, and hang-ups. Doors open at 6:30
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3608 for reservations. Use ground floor entrance to the left of front stairs. Good parking in back off of SW Bryant Street. Castle Tours available by appointment, includes Clatskanie Historical Society museum. Call Debbie at 503338-8268. Caples Evening Programs The cost for this evening and all our Fireside Chats will be only $5. Caples will be offering a different program the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at 1925 First Street in Columbia City. For more information, call 503-397-5390. The Rainier Oregon Historical Museum (ROHM) will be closed until further notice. The City of Rainier will be using the space during clerk’s office repairs. Lower Columbia River Watershed Council Lower Columbia Watershed Council meets the second Monday of the month at 6:30
p.m. in the Clatskanie PUD building. Zoom links are also available. Visit the council’s website for agenda postings and Zoom at www.lowercolumbiariver.org/events-page. The Rainier Public Library is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Fridays and 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturdays. It will be closed Sundays and Mondays. Avamere at St. Helens hosts a Virtual Dementia Support Group – 3rd Wednesday of each month from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. For more details, contact Jenny Hicks/Avamere at St. Helens at 503-366-8070. To list an event in the Community Calendar, email details with a phone number that may be published for anyone that might have questions, to chronicleclassifieds@ countrymedia.net, or call 503397-0116.
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A6
Wednesday, January 3, 2024
Classifieds The Columbia County Chronicle & Chief
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Feds pledge $600M for new I-5 bridge linking Washington and Oregon BILL LUCIA Oregon Capital Chronicle Chronicle & Chief Guest Article
The current spans are at risk of failure in an earthquake. The grant is the first significant commitment of federal dollars for the replacement project, which has been under discussion for over two decades. The federal government will plunk down more than a half-billion dollars to help cover the cost of replacing the Interstate 5 bridge across the Columbia River, between Washington and Oregon. A grant of $600 million will go to the Interstate Bridge Replacement Program, the entity overseeing the effort. It’s the first sizable commitment of federal funding to what is one of the most significant infrastructure projects pending in the region and along the West Coast. Three Washington Democratic lawmakers — U.S. Sens. Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray, and U.S. Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, whose district is on the Washington side of the
bridge – announced the grant award on Friday. There’s still a long road ahead to getting the bridge fully funded and built. The award will cover about 8% to 12% of the estimated $5 billion to $7.5 billion total expense of replacing the bridge. One of the bridge’s two spans is over a century old, the other about 65 years old, and the entire bridge is at risk of collapse in a major earthquake. Work is already underway in areas like environmental evaluation, toll planning, and design. Construction is anticipated to begin in late 2025 and to last until 2032. Nearly 132,000 vehicles, on average, traveled across the bridge each weekday in 2021, according to the Southwest Washington Regional Transportation Council. The grant dollars are from the federal Mega Grant Program, which funnels money to complex regional projects. Washington and Oregon have both committed about $1 billion to the bridge replacement and anticipate
Columbia County’s trusted local news source
Courtesy of the Oregon Department of Transportation/Flickr
Oregon leaders welcomed the federal infusion of cash on the project.
tolls will generate between $1.1 billion and $1.6 billion. Paying for the bridge has been a hot topic in Oregon, with Gov. Tina Kotek asking the Legislature to limit bond funding for the project to pay for other priorities, like housing. This session, amid an uproar by climate activists over funding a large transportation project, lawmakers called on the state to issue $250 million in bonds in each of the next four twoyear budget cycles as Or-
egon’s down payment on its portion. Lawmakers said the remaining $750 million may end up coming from other sources, with the state planning a major transportation funding package in 2025. Oregon Democratic leaders, U.S. Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, Gov. Tina Kotek and U.S. Reps. Earl Blumenauer and Suzanne Bonamici welcomed the announcement, saying the project will be good for truckers and commuters while
promoting safety by making the bridge seismically resilient. Blumenauer and Kotek added that the plans for light rail, with pedestrian and cycling lanes, will also help reduce emissions, something that activists reject. Discussions and planning around replacing the bridge have gone on for about 20 years. But in recent months, lawmakers and others have become more optimistic that the project is headed toward construction as funding and
support in both states is shored up. Gluesenkamp Perez visited the bridge with White House infrastructure coordinator Mitch Landrieu in September to stress the importance of replacing it. On Friday, Gluesenkamp Perez’s office said Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, who visited southwest Washington in July, called to congratulate her on the grant. Cantwell and Murray both highlighted their efforts to press for federal support for the project over the years. Murray noted conversations she had about it dating back to 1992. Washington State Standard and Oregon Capital Chronicle are part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Washington State Standard maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Bill Lucia for questions: info@ washingtonstatestandard. com. Follow Washington State Standard on Facebook and Twitter.
Wednesday, January 3, 2024
A7
The Columbia County Chronicle & Chief
Public Notices CH23-1491
CC24-1000
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF NOTICE OF MEETING The Columbia Soil & meeting will be held at the Conservation District SWCD office, 35285 MilOREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA Water will be holding their Anlard Road in St. Helens, OR In the Matter of the Estate of MARCELLINE ROHDE, Deceased. No. 23PB10259 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed personal representative. All persons
having claims against the estate are required to present them, with vouchers attached, to the undersigned personal representative at the address below, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice, or the claims may be
barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the court, the personal representative, or the attorneys for the personal representative. Dated and first published Decem-
ber 20, 2023. LUKE ADAM HECKATHORN Personal Representative c/o Lucas & Associates, LLC Attorneys at Law P.O. Box 519 Rainier, OR 97048, Phone 503- 556-3741, FAX - 503556-0708, Lucasatty@ yahoo.com.
CH23-1493
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA Probate Department In the Matter of the Estate of: Marietta Vivian Smets, Deceased. No. 23PB10234 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS Notice is hereby given that John S. Smets has been appointed personal representative of this estate.
All persons having claims against the estate are hereby required to present their claims, with proper vouchers, within four (4) months after the date of first publication of this Notice, as stated below, to the personal representative at 1677 St, Helens Street, St.
Helens, Oregon 97051 or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights are affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the court, the personal representative, or the attorney for the personal representative. Dated and
first published: December 27, 2023. MARK A. GORDON, P.C. /s/ Mark A. Gordon, Esq., Mark A. Gordon, OSB No 81242 Attorney for Personal Representative, 1677 St. Helens Street, St. Helens, Oregon 97051, 503-397-9066, mark@ markgordonpc.com.
nual Meeting on January 17, 2023 at 4:00 PM. The
97051 and via Zoom.
CC24-1001
DEQ SEEKS COMMENTS DEQ seeks comments on proposed No Further Action determination for Elk Ridge Estates in St. Helens The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality seeks comments on its proposed No Further Action determination, with conditions, for the
Elk Ridge Estates Development north of Hankey Rd. and Barrick Ln. in St. Helens. For more information: To view project documents and information on how to comment on this proposed action see the public notice at ordeq.org/publicnotices.
CC23-1492
NOTICE OF MEETING McNulty Water PUD will be holding their Board meeting January 9, 2023, at 7pm. The meeting will be located at 34240 Millard Road, Warren Or-
egon 97053. If you would like the January 9, 2023, Agenda, or the link for Zoom to attend the meeting please contact me at 503397-1301.
PUBLIC LIEN SALE U-STORE SELF STORAGE LANE CLOSURE NOTICE for Auction to be held bidding. 1st Location St. 2nd Location: Scappoose HUBBARD CONSTRUCTION online at Storageauctions. Helens 445 Port Ave, Suite 53567 Columbia River Hwy.
Public Notice deadline is Fridays by noon.
CH23-1494
CH24-1002
com. Auction will run from 1/9/2024 10:00 am & end on 1/19/2024 10:00 am. Unclaimed storage lockers to be sold by competitive
D, Robert C Gilbert RV139, Tyler Jones M-033, Rhonda Kelly R- 144, O-027 Robert Miley R-127, Jon Wagner R-045, Shelly Wiley R-023.
Richard Burdett F008, Michael Oswald Y103. GOODS OF EVERY DESCRIPTION SOLD BY STORAGE LOT. Cash and Credit Cards.
Houlton Hollow Apartments Project, Project # P-496. Place: Columbia Blvd. at N 12th Street. Date of Closure: Jan. 8, 2024 -
Jan. 12, 2024. Time: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. If you have any questions or concerns, please call our representative at 503-519-7016.
Late submissions are not guaranteed to make it into the paper.
NEW YEAR
has started a new electronic waterfront newsletter to keep people updated about project construction, according to Walsh. Walsh also highlighted the Community Pathways Grant, which he said is an exciting opportunity. The grant will help the city explore and plan for a nonmotorized path between Scappoose and St. Helens. Using grant money, the city also expanded the McCormick Park Veterans Memorial. Another project the city highlighted was the recent completion of the Columbia Boulevard Sidewalk Project, which improved safe routes to school for children in the community. In another move to ensure the stability of its facilities, the city began a study to evaluate the resiliency and structural integrity of the city’s Wastewater Treatment Plant. In addition to their many infrastructural accomplishments, Walsh said the city
hired Gloria Butsch as the city’s new finance director. The city also updated the St. Helens Public Library’s strategic plan and received recognition from the League of Oregon Cities for “the city’s recruitment and retention policies and efforts.”
closure of Cascade Tissues would create a $1.4 million deficit in the city’s budget through the loss of utility payments, property taxes, and lease revenue. Additionally, federal COVID stimulus funds (ARPA) are also ending. Walsh said these funds helped the city support staffing, but the funding will no longer be available. To address these issues, the city has formed its Budget Committee, which will hold its first meeting in January 2024 to begin discussing the 2024/25 Fiscal Year budget. Walsh said a number of potential cuts and one-time revenue sources will be presented for discussion during these meetings to “balance the budget and maintain the highest level of services possible.” Walsh said potential cuts could include “salary freezes, staffing cuts, early retirement buy-outs, leaving vacant positions unfilled
(attrition), furloughs, and deferring capital improvement projects.” Examples of “one-time revenue sources” include an increase in tourism revenues to support the general fund, timber harvest revenue, and selling property. Another challenge the city has faced is the process of building the new police station. After the city approved the building of the station at the intersection of Kaster and Old Portland Road, the city received a notice of intent to appeal the conditional use permit for the police station site. Walsh said the appeal process can take up to a year to complete, and the city is “currently looking at all options regarding this project.”
trict. Some of the city’s key priorities with the project are the completion of the Streets and Utilities Extension Project, the start of construction on Phase I of the Riverwalk Project, and the further development of the St. Helens Industrial Business Park. Walsh also said there will be work needed to improve sewer basin issues throughout town, which will be made possible through grant funding. “Thanks in part to a $2.5 million Community Development Block Grant, the city will also be addressing sewer deficiencies in several sewer basins around town,” Walsh said. “Creating larger capacity will support future commercial, industrial, and residential growth.” In next week’s edition, we will take a closer look at Scappoose, Clatskanie, and Rainier’s priorities, goals, and takeaways going into the new year.
From Page A1
our Transportation System Management Plan, $32,875 from the Oregon Parks and Recreation’s Veterans Memorial Grant Program to expand the Veterans Memorial at McCormick Park, $2.5 million from the Business Oregon Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to address sewer system capacity improvements and $1.2 million from the U.S. Department of Education for the St. Helens Recreation Program and St. Helens School District’s partnership for the 21st Century Community Learning Center Afterschool Program,” Walsh said. With the support of the grants, the city has been able to make headway on the waterfront redevelopment projects. Walsh noted that there has been progress on the Streets and Utilities Extension Project. The city
Challenges While St. Helens has had its share of positives, one of the primary challenges it has faced is “budget constraints in all areas.” Walsh said the city is trying to find a way to align desired services and projects with available revenues. “The 2023/24 Fiscal Year budget utilized $500,000 in general fund reserves to balance the budget,” Walsh said. “This shortfall will continue into the 24/25 FY budget if changes are not made, causing the city’s reserve balance to fall below the 20% policy amount.” Walsh projected that the
Looking ahead Going into 2024, Walsh said the city has goals to keep making progress in the Historic Riverfront Dis-
Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: WINTER FUN ACROSS
1. Mulligatawny and gazpacho, e.g. 6. Half of NFL 9. “Oscar” of sports 13. Relating to sight 14. Sargasso ____ 15. Dugout glider 16. Not fresh 17. First H in HRH 18. Face-to-face exams 19. *Ice fishing shelter 21. *”Polar” activity 23. *Type of Christmas tree 24. Diagonal 25. Tax return professional, acr. 28. Kind of cola 30. Diaphragm spasm 35. Scepters’ partners 37. Of two minds 39. ____ Jean Baker 40. *Rabbit’s winter one is white 41. Sheik’s bevy? 43. Type of dam 44. Butcher’s refuse 46. Etna’s emission 47. Secret disclosure 48. Stellar 50. Chap or fella
52. Diabetic ketoacidosis, acr. 53. A or O, to blood 55. Unit of electrical resistance 57. *Finger warmers 60. *Certain sleigh ride 63. Courtroom excuse 64. Gobbled up 66. Train runners 68. Land of taekwondo 69. “Caroline in the City” Thompson 70. Relating to Scandinavia 71. Not home 72. *Last winter mo. 73. Klondike river
DOWN
1. Acronym in a bottle 2. Chooses 3. Colorado’s neighbor 4. a.k.a. pilau 5. Like a longer route? 6. Grayish 7. ATM extra 8. Carpus, pl. 9. Bring home the bacon 10. Unforeseen obstacle 11. *Skier’s aid 12. Da or oui 15. Jenny McCarthy to
Melissa McCarthy 20. Engagement, archaic 22. ____-di-dah 24. Onslaught 25. *Warming drink 26. Faculty members, for short 27. Behind a stern 29. *Frosty’s eyes 31. Type of hood 32. Apollo of “Rocky” 33. Inuit skin boat 34. *a.k.a. anorak 36. *Betelgeuse, e.g. 38. *Snow, in Italy 42. Lord’s estate 45. Lithuania’s neighbor 49. NaOH 51. Like a rosebush 54. Church song 56. Meow, alt. sp. 57. ___-in-the-dark 58. Milano moolah 59. Toe the line 60. Product of lacrimation 61. Michael Douglas’ dad 62. “The Sun ____ Rises” 63. *What clues #4 and #34 Down have in common 65. High affair 67. Barack Obama, prepres.
Solution to crossword in next week’s issue of The Chronicle & Chief Columbia County’s trusted local news source
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New year, new laws on housing, addiction and more BEN BOTKIN Oregon Capital Chronicle Chronicle & Chief Guest Article
New Oregon laws that took effect Jan. 1 are aimed at the state’s biggest crises and needs, from affordable housing to the exploding fentanyl addiction crisis to mental health. The laws, passed amid a tumultuous legislative session with a historic GOPled Senate walkout, have a wide reach. Oregonians will see a new tax on their cell phone bills to pay for a crisis hotline. The foam containers that keep your takeout food warm will disappear. Cities will have an easier time rezoning commercial property to increase housing options. And state health and education leaders are charged with coming up with a curriculum to teach young people about the deadly danger of fentanyl. Almost 3,000 bills were introduced, and lawmakers passed more than 650 in the last session. Of those, 250 took effect with the new year. Here’s a look at some of the biggest changes:
reversal medication naloxone when they leave the facility if they entered the facility to get treated for opioid abuse. The bill also protects people who administer opioid overdose reversal medication from lawsuits. More access to addiction treatment for inmates: Senate Bill 529 will make it easier for people in prison to access intense addiction programs and different types of treatment. The law defines substance use disorders as a chronic illness for which treatment is necessary. The Oregon Department of Corrections says 63% of people entering prison have an addiction, and 50% have a severe need for treatment. Mental health needs New cell phone tax: House Bill 2757 will add a 40-cent tax on cell phone bills for the state’s 9-8-8 hotline, which serves people in a behavioral health crisis. The tax will generate about $26 million annually to run the hotline and provide mobile crisis response teams that help people in crisis.
Measure 110 tweaks
Mental health treatment
House Bill 2513 makes changes to Measure 110, the voter-approved measure that decriminalizes possession of small amounts of drugs and puts a share of cannabis revenue into addiction treatment and recovery services. The law improves staffing and simplifies the application process so organizations can receive funding and start helping people sooner. The law also makes changes so the state receives improved and accurate data about Measure 110 programs.
House Bill 3426 requires 988 crisis hotline centers to train staff on how to serve firefighters, paramedics and police officers who contact the crisis hotline. First responders have high suicide rates, and the law is intended to ensure they get the help needed through the 988 crisis line.
Youth fentanyl education Senate Bill 238 requires Oregon public health and education officials to develop a curriculum that will teach youth about the dangers of opioids amid a rise of fentanyl overdoses. The law comes after Beaverton School District developed its own curriculum to educate teens after a former student overdosed and died. Preventing opioid overdoses Senate Bill 1043 requires hospitals and other providers like addiction treatment facilities to give patients two doses of the overdose
Crime and punishment Fighting organized retail theft: Senate Bill 340 gives law enforcement more tools to fight organized retail theft rings, with tougher penalties for organized crime that targets retail stores. Retailers raised concerns with lawmakers about increasingly sophisticated crime rings that steal merchandise. Driving under the influence House Bill 2316 expands the state’s driving under the influence of intoxicants law to include any impairing drugs. The law previously applied only to liquor, cannabis, psilocybin and controlled substances. Domestic terrorism House Bill 2772 makes domestic terrorism a crime
Amanda Loman / Oregon Capital Chronicle
Oregonians face new laws with the start of 2024 that will address the drug addiction crisis, environment and crime. Oregon Revised Statues volumes at the Oregon State Capitol on Monday, Sept. 21, 2021.
when it targets “critical infrastructure” like utilities, airports, roads and dams, or when it sends out a “toxic substance,” such as chemical and biological weapons. Depending on the severity of the charge, domestic terrorism is a felony that is eligible for up to 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. Unlawful paramilitary activity House Bill 2572 creates a civil enforcement mechanism that allows the attorney general or private citizens to take paramilitary participants to court to stop their activity. The law also allows the attorney general to investigate paramilitary activity. Paramilitary activity involves actions that can include the threat of violence and intimidation, such as preventing people from accessing public areas. The law applies to paramilitary activity regardless of ideology. Body armor Senate Bill 618 allows courts to give tougher sentences to criminal defendants when they are found guilty of committing a crime while wearing body armor. The law also applies in cases when people flee from crimes while wearing body armor. Sex crime law House Bill 3632 expands the statute of limitations for first-degree six crimes from 12 years to 20 years, or before the victim turns 30 years old if they were a minor during the crime. The limitation applies to whatever scenario comes last. Photo radar House Bill 2095 allows all Oregon cities to use photo radar to enforce traffic laws, such as speeding, and ends restrictions on the number of
hours photo radar can be used at any given location.The law also allows cities to put speed limits in place that are lower than those set by the state, up to 10 miles an hour less than the speed limit in state law. The catch: Speed limits cannot be less than 20 miles an hour. Housing Housing growth: House Bill 2984 is intended to help the state’s housing shortage by allowing cities to convert commercial buildings to residential housing when they are in the city’s urban growth boundary. The law allows this without requiring a zoning change or conditional use permit. Affordable housing House Bill 2761 expands the ability of Oregon Housing and Community Services to finance affordable housing projects. The bill makes it easier for the agency to finance housing development projects that serve low-income households. Homeowner wildfire protection Senate Bill 82 prevents insurance companies from canceling policies or raising premium costs to insure a home based upon its location on the statewide wildfire risk map. The law also requires insurers to give homeowners information about how they can lower their premiums by protecting their homes from wildfires by making improvements with fire-resistant building materials. Education and kids Oregon Kids Credit: House Bill 3235 creates Oregon’s first state-based child tax credit. Families that earn $30,000 or less receive a $1,000 tax credit for every child five years old
and younger. About 55,000 children in Oregon will help families access the benefit. Families can apply for the credit when they file their tax returns. For more information about the Oregon Kids Credit and other tax benefits, go here.
health insurers to cover costs of medically necessary prosthetic and orthotic devices that aid people with weakened or missing limbs. The measure is intended to provide devices that are necessary to maintain one’s quality of life or work.
School HVAC systems
HIV prevention drugs
House Bill 3031 helps Oregon schools access federal funding to upgrade heating, cooling and ventilation systems and put carbon dioxide monitors in classrooms. The law is intended to help schools improve air quality and eradicate airborne germs.
House Bill 2574 prohibits health insurers from charging their patients for the costs of HIV prevention drugs administered after a possible exposure, either through co-payments or increased premiums. The law also requires hospitals to have policies in place to dispense the drugs and requires the Oregon Health Authority to provide the drugs, called post-exposure prophylactic drugs, to rural hospitals free of charge.
Student financial literacy Senate Bill 3 requires personal finance education as a graduation requirement for high school students starting in 2027. The law also requires a class in career path skills, which includes preparing for job interviews and resume preparation. Nurse training Senate Bill 523 is intended to address the shortage of nurses in Oregon. The law allows community colleges to offer bachelor’s of science degrees in nursing. The Higher Education Coordinating Commission will approve any applications from colleges that want to start bachelor’s degrees in nursing. Health care and environment Breast cancer screenings: Senate Bill 1041 requires commercial insurance companies to fully cover all medically necessary breast cancer diagnostic tests, imaging and exams. Insurers usually cover mammograms, but not all plans cover ultrasounds and other diagnostic tests. Hospital charity care House Bill 3320 requires hospitals to do more to help low-income patients access their financial assistance programs, also called charity care. The bill requires hospitals to do more to inform patients about their options for charity care and how to apply. Patients also get refunds if they later qualify for charity care. Prosthetic care Senate Bill 797 requires
Foam containers banned Senate Bill 543 bans Styrofoam and other polystyrene takeout containers used for prepared food. The ban comes in response to environmental concerns about polystyrene, a non-biodegradable substance that can last for centuries, polluting waterways and harming fish and wildlife. Domestic partnerships Under House Bill 2032, couples, regardless of gender, can enter into Oregonregistered domestic partnerships. They are available to all adult couples 18 and older. Domestic partnerships have the same rights and benefits as marriage. https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/2024/01/02/ new-year-new-laws2024-measures-cover-housing-addiction-and-more/ Oregon Capital Chronicle is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oregon Capital Chronicle maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Lynne Terry for questions: info@ oregoncapitalchronicle.com. Fast Fact New laws started in January that will impact housing, crime, drug addiction and behavioral health needs.
More protections coming for old-growth forests under federal plans ALEX BAUMHARDT Capital Chronicle Chronicle Guest Article
America’s oldest trees, most of which are in the West, will get added protection from wildfire and climate change under updated forest plans from the U.S. Forest Service. In announcements in mid-December, officials from the Forest Service said they would begin the process of amending forest management plans affecting all 128 of the agency’s forest and grasslands, including the Northwest Forest Plan governing federal forests in northern California, Oregon and Washington. The amendments, both nationally and in the Northwest, are meant to bolster forest health to combat climate change and to further protect the last of the nation’s old-growth trees, many of which have been threatened by growing wildfires, drought and diseases. While updates would limit timber harvests in oldgrowth areas, logging would likely be allowed to continue in some mature stands in the Northwest. Susan Jane Brown, founder and attorney at the Oregon legal nonprofit Silvix Resources, said the idea of leaving mature forests on the table for logging makes conservationists a bit “queasy,” but she said it is inevitable on federal forestlands managed for multiple uses. “Given that, I want to see that harvests occur in the most ecologically sensitive way, that also honors cultural traditions, and I think we can do that,” she said. “I think that we can have
timber harvests that focus on cutting the right trees in the right places for the right reasons.” Updating these federal forest plans are part of the Biden administration’s strategy to “ecologically manage” the nation’s forests to be more resilient to wildfires and to better sequester climate-warming carbon dioxide. Living trees suck up and store climate-warming carbon dioxide. When cut or burned, they release it into the atmosphere. Older trees also contribute to the health of the water, soil and ecosystems, allowing better carbon and water storage for other trees and plants. The decision to “amend” rather than “revise” the plans will allow changes to be adopted more quickly. The Forest Service has set a deadline of 2025 to finalize plans. Environmentalists hope this deadline is met to avoid derailment by any new presidential administration. Difference between old and mature The plans will focus on protections for old growth. The more than 20 million acres of federal forestlands protected in the Northwest Forest Plan contain 25% of the remaining old growth in all federal forests and grasslands in the lower 48 states, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. About one-quarter of Oregon’s forests are owned and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. This includes 10 national forests spanning 16 million acres. The term “old growth” encompasses different ages for different tree species, but in general denotes tree
stands and surrounding habitat that has not undergone any major human-caused changes for 100 years. The trees remain part of healthy, diverse ecosystems that are largely unmanipulated. Mature stands are typically close to a century old and characterized by their large size relative to younger trees, multi-layered canopies and the health of the soil around them. The U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management oversee 72 million hectares, or about 278,000 square miles, of forests – an area about the size of Texas and Vermont combined. A recent inventory from the two agencies found that about 45% of those forests are considered “mature” and about 18% are considered “old growth.” Most old growth and mature forests are in Western states such as Idaho, California, Montana and Oregon. Few stands still exist east of the Mississippi River. There are some left in New England, around the Great Lakes and in Arkansas, Kentucky and West Virginia, according to the Forest Service. Northwest Forest Plan The announced changes focus on five key updates to the Northwest Forest Plan, which covers 17 national forests across 20 million acres in Washington, Oregon and Northern California. It was approved in 1994 following lawsuits under the Endangered Species Act, alleging unsustainable logging was leading to the decline and loss of critical species, including the Northern spotted owl. These owls rely on old growth and mature
Courtesy from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
About 25% of all the remaining old-growth trees across all national forests and grasslands in the lower 48 states are in national forests in the Northwest that are managed by federal agencies.
forests for nesting. In many ways, the plan succeeded in conserving old growth and improving habitat for land and aquatic species. But over the last 30 years, growing threats from wildfire as well as drought and invasive pests and disease from climate change warrant an update to the management plan, according to Alexi Lovechio, climate program manager with Klamath-Siskiyou Wildlands Center, a nonprofit conservation group based in Ashland: “Since 1994, our environment has changed and new scientific data has emerged, Lovechio said. “We didn’t know nearly as much about climate change and the impacts it would have on wildfire severity or water quality and wildlife habitat as we do today. So that’s why this amendment
is so important.” The updates include managing and preserving mature and old growth forests, protecting them from climate change, including tribes in forest management, preventing and suppressing wildfires and supporting rural economies. Brown of Silvix Resources,said when the plan was written it was missing some critical input. “The 1994 plan was written without the governmentto-government consultation with tribes, and as a result, there is no language at all in the plan about indigenous stewardship and uses of these lands,” she said. “I think we will, I hope that we will, make that change in our amendment.” https://oregoncapitalchronicle.
com/2023/12/19/moreprotections-coming-for-oldgrowth-forests-under-federal-plans/ Oregon Capital Chronicle is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Oregon Capital Chronicle maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Lynne Terry for questions: info@ oregoncapitalchronicle.com. Fast Fact Changes to the U.S. Forest Service’s national and Northwest forest plans should protect more old-growth trees from wildfire and climate change.
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Sports
Clatskanie Basketball on a roll WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.
The Tigers are riding high as the preseason comes to an end, winning three games in a row to finish their nonleague schedule. The Tigers’ overall record is 4-4, but their recent strong play has seen them beat Portland Adventist Academy 67-20, secure a 44-22 win against Toledo, and come back and beat Umatilla at the Moda Center 37-24. As things currently stand, Clatskanie is ranked 17 of the 38 teams in OSAA’s 2A rankings. Head Coach Mary Sizemore said that the biggest strengths of the team this season have been their defensive intensity and ability to step up in big moments. “They’ve been working hard to also sharpen their basketball IQ and learn to read the holes on defense better,” Sizemore said. “It makes me proud to see the
tenacity that this group of girls have when things get tough both in practice and games.” The Tigers’ game against Umatilla on Dec. 22 saw the Clatskanie students travel to Portland to play in the Moda Center, the home court of the Portland Trailblazers. The Tigers fought back in the second half to take home the victory. Sizemore said that the arena lights were a tad bright for her team when they first got on the court, but that eventually, the team found their rhythm. “They were awestruck at first on the Moda Center court; however, once they realized that it was the same as any other basketball court, they settled down and got to business,” Sizemore said. With a tenacious comeback in the second half, the Tigers got their third win in a row. The win and the setting were high points for Sizemore and her team this
season so far. “I would say the highlights of our season so far have been playing on the Moda Court and making a fantastic comeback in the second half for games such as Toledo and Umatilla,” Sizemore said. The first game of the league play schedule will be against Vernonia on Jan. 3. Vernonia has struggled in the early season, going 2-8 through their preseason schedule. Vernonia is ranked 24th in OSAA’s 2A rankings. With the regular season ahead, Sizemore is excited to see her team step up to the challenge of their familiar opponents and make a push for the playoffs. “With league play coming up, we will continue to focus on sharpening their fundamentals and basketball IQ,” Sizemore said. Follow Clatskanie sports at OSAA.org.
The Clatskanie girls basketball team at the Moda Center.
Courtesy photo from Mary Sizemore
Lions gearing up for league play WILL LOHRE Country Media, Inc.
After ten preseason games, the St. Helens High School girls basketball team has only one non-league game remaining to put the final pieces into place for the crucial league portion of the schedule. Though the team is 5-5 overall, the Lions have been playing well recently, winning three of their last four contests. The Lions are currently ranked 9 of the 31 teams in OSAA’s 4A rankings. Head Coach Jillian Ross said that many of the successes her team has had have been on the defensive side of the ball and getting the ball out in transition. “We are starting to get into a rhythm with our defense, and the addition of the shot clock in Oregon has been beneficial for us,” Ross said. “A second thing is we have been better with pushing the ball in transition and knowing when to
GRANTS
From Page A1 meeting on January 11, 2024, at 6 p.m. in the St. Helens Council Chambers. King said “a number of potential cuts and one-time revenue sources will be presented for discussion” during these meetings to balance the budget while maintaining the “highest level of services possible.” “Some examples of potential cuts include salary freezes, leaving vacant positions unfilled (attrition), staffing cuts, early retirement buyouts, furloughs, and deferring capital improvement projects,”
The St. Helens girls varsity basketball team.
slow the game down.” Earlier in the season, Ross said that playing with a higher tempo had been a focus for the team and that they had improved in that aspect throughout the season. The next step Ross said the team needs to improve is recognizing when is a good time to play fast and when they need to settle down and run their halfcourt sets. One of the areas the
team is focusing on from a mentality perspective is building companionship as a unit and increasing team chemistry. “We are slowly improving in our ability to trust each other on the court. As our communication continues to improve, so will our trust,” Ross said. Over the past four games, St. Helens has scored wins over Elmira, Newport, and Rainier. The
King said. “One-time revenue sources include an increase in tourism revenues to support the general fund, timber harvest revenue, and property sale.” The St. Helens City Council normally offers an annual non-profit community grant program. The program provides a way for the City of St. Helens to support local organizations in their missions to assist the community. The city said that the council will discuss resuming the grant program at the end of 2024, depending on the health of the city’s finances. While the city will need to tighten its belt to navigate its current budget challenges,
King said that the city is focused on making sure that the quality of life for citizens is unaffected by the shortfall. “The goal of the City Council and city staff is to maintain the highest level of services for the community while considering what cuts will be made,” King said. “The city provides essential services such as clean water, wastewater treatment, maintaining roads, and public safety. These services are critical to the basic function of a healthy city.”
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Courtesy Photo
one loss came against Regis, who St. Helens lost by a narrow margin; the final score was 35-37. During
this stretch, Ross said that there have been “plenty of players” who have stood out. “Those include Devan Lee, Maddie Hancock, Maisy McDole, and Bella Meuchel,” Ross said. “With injury and sickness over winter break, we had girls play in different roles, and they really stepped up to the plate.” The final game of nonleague play is on Jan. 3 against North Marion. The first game of league play will kick off on Jan. 5 when the Lions battle it out with Seaside. St. Helens is competing in the Cowapa League against Astoria, Seaside,
Follow St. Helens High School sports at OSAA.org.
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Scappoose, and Tillamook. They will play each of those opponents three times. The top two teams from the league will gain automatic placement in the state playoffs. Ross said that with the league right around the corner, the team is now working on finding ways to play at a high level whenever they touch the court. “I think the biggest thing with league is consistency,” Ross said. “Consistency with our play and our effort will be huge due to the tough conference we play in.”